Return Missionary Next Chapters

Join us as Bitsy shares her compelling story of overcoming trauma, accepting reassignments, embracing her mission(s), and discovering the transformative power of faith. You'll hear about her unexpected challenges on her mission, her deep spiritual growth, and her insights on gratitude and resilience. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of how faith and perseverance can turn trials into testimonies.

Key Topics Covered:

• Bitsy's background and early life growing up in Utah with a tennis-loving family
• The evolution of her decision to serve a mission, despite uncertainties about college tennis
• Her experience of opening her mission call to Peru and the emotional journey involved
• Challenges faced during her mission, including safety threats, personal violations, and cultural adjustments
• The critical role of spiritual healing and the power of prayer after traumatic events
• The profound impact of her mission in shaping her faith and understanding of Jesus Christ
• Lessons on gratitude, resilience, and turning hardships into growth opportunities
• Practical advice for returning missionaries navigating post-mission life

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction
 00:46 Growing up in a tennis family
 03:03 Why serving a mission mattered to Bitsy
 05:44 Balancing collegiate tennis with the call to serve
 08:01 Praying for a “red light” and choosing faith
 12:41 An unexpected reassignment to Las Vegas
 16:22 Arriving in Peru and facing a difficult transition
 20:47 Safety challenges, recovery, and the difference between protection and preservation
 28:17 Returning home, gratitude, and rebuilding through tennis
 33:27 “I can’t believe I almost missed out on this”
 35:53 How the mission changed Bitsy’s faith and confidence
 39:46 Advice for returning missionaries: find a goal and give yourself grace

Join us in this episode as Kenny Candia shares his profound story of overcoming a challenging youth marked by gangs, juvenile hall, and a tumultuous life, to embracing faith, service, and meaningful relationships. His journey underscores the transformative power of the gospel, perseverance, and surrounding oneself with positive influences. Whether you're navigating your own struggles or seeking inspiration, Kenny's story offers valuable lessons on repentance, resilience, and the importance of community.

Main Topics Covered:

·   Kenny's early life in California and his complex family background

·   The influence of environment and peer pressure on his teenage years

·   His cycles of faith — going in and out of the church's gospel

·   The turning point: hitting rock bottom and the missionary visit that changed everything

·   The profound impact of his mission in Leeds, England, and ongoing growth

·   Finding love: Meeting his wife before and after his mission and their family journey

·   Lessons learned on patience, surround yourself with high-quality people, and seize opportunities

·   The power of testimony and sharing the gospel in everyday situations

·   Practical advice for return missionaries adjusting to post-mission life

Timestamps:

·   00:00 - Introduction and episode overview

·   02:30 - Kenny's upbringing in California and family dynamics

·   06:05 - Life before faith and teenage struggles

·   13:00 - Decision to serve a mission and early faith cycle

·   16:00 - Key mentors and influential relationships

·   21:12 - Gang involvement, environment, and peer pressure

·   25:17 - Hitting rock bottom, jail, and turning to prayer

·   27:34 - Spirit prompts and accepting the gospel

·   28:30 - Serving in Leeds, England, and the lifelong impact

·   29:02 - Meeting his wife, rapid engagement, and marriage

·   30:01 - Post-mission education, career, and entrepreneurial ventures

·   35:32 - Words of wisdom for teens and young adults

·   37:02 - Recommendations for returning missionaries transitioning to life after service

This inspiring episode dives into the lifelong relationship between music, faith, and family, highlighting personal stories and lessons learned from Emmie Burch and Dr. Debbie Siebert (mother/daughter). If you're curious about how music can shape character, faith, and even career paths, this conversation offers powerful insights and practical advice for all stages of life.

Main Topics Covered:

• The role of music in family and personal development
• Serving missions with a strong testimony and perspective
• How music from heaven influences our spirituality and daily life
• Leading with faith and authenticity in various life pursuits
• Tips for engaging with hymnody and sacred music

In this episode:

• Emmie shares her experience growing up in a musically gifted family and her decision to serve a mission despite initial doubts
• Dr. Siebert discusses how her family's musical heritage influenced her career and faith journey
• Insights into the significance of hymnody and music's power to unify and uplift
• Practical advice for members on preparing and participating in sacred music
• The importance of authenticity and reliance on Jesus Christ during life's transitions

Timestamps:
00:45 - Introduction to Emmie and Dr. Siebert's family musical background

01:06 - Growing up in a musically immersed family

01:41 - The love for singing and self-expression within the family

02:28 - Reflecting on childhood experiences with family performances

03:29 - Dr. Siebert’s academic pursuits and balancing family life

03:41 - The influence of family and faith on her career choices

05:24 - Emmy’s thoughts on serving a mission and her decision-making process

06:30 - Reflection on early experiences and the unique decision to serve at a young age

07:09 - Emmie's leadership in school band and her journey to becoming drum major

08:26 - The spiritual foundation in leadership and life

09:38 - The importance of authentic faith in personal development

10:25 - Family dynamics and nurturing musical talents in children

11:15 - Using music as a developmental tool for children, including those on the spectrum

12:41 - The importance of teaching music as a language of expression for all

13:28 - Family history and the musical legacy passed through generations

14:49 - Embracing music as a calling and its role in family life

15:17 - Emmie’s emotional journey receiving her mission call and her initial disappointment

16:06 - Her perspective shift through spiritual experiences and scriptures

17:46 - The physical and spiritual readiness for missionary service

18:50 - The power of prayer and honesty with Heavenly Father about feelings

19:49 - Reflection on sacrifice and the history of those who went before us

20:53 - Parental insight on managing disappointment and trusting divine timing

22:37 - The significance of faith and perspective in life's transitions

23:49 - Embracing emotions and vulnerability in faith journeys

24:39 - Observations on her daughter’s musical and spiritual growth post-mission

25:36 - Family musical achievements and their impact on faith and bonding

26:08 - The experience of performing a recital with her mother and its significance

27:06 - The meaningfulness of family musical moments and blessings

28:03 - The role of music in spiritual and daily life, and its power to influence mood

29:07 - The divine nature of music and its capacity to uplift or darken spirits

30:53 - The importance of choosing uplifting music and guarding our spirits

31:18 - The power of hymns and collective singing in creating unity

32:07 - Hymns as spiritual pillars across cultures and generations

33:01 - Concerting faith through music and its healing power

34:15 - The importance of familiar hymns in personal spiritual experiences

35:11 - Cultivating passion and preparation for singing hymns with faith

36:03 - Practical tips for members to engage more deeply with hymns and sacred music

37:33 - Sharing a family album of hymns and their spiritual significance

38:25 - The intentional use of social media to share positive, faith-filled music

41:27 - Reflecting on the profound experiences of singing together in sacred spaces

43:14 - Guidance for missionaries and new members to rely on Jesus Christ in their journeys

43:42 - Maintaining authentic relationships with Heavenly Father amidst life's challenges

45:07 - Final words of encouragement to keep walking in faith and service

In this episode, we explore the journey of a former mission president as he transitions into new chapters of his life. Jeff's stories are vulnerable, real, and rich with lessons on faith, service, and personal growth, inspiring others who are navigating similar paths.

In this episode we learn: 

• The profound impact of serving a mission and lifelong relationships built across the globe
• How missionaries prepare spiritually and emotionally for their service
• The importance of readiness, integrity, and deepening faith during and after missions
• Unique experiences serving in diverse cultural contexts like Peru, Mexico, and Kenya
• Advice for return missionaries and seniors considering future service
• Personal stories of sacrifice, joy, and the ongoing influence of missionary service on personal lives
• Practical tips for staying spiritually engaged and embracing next chapters with purpose

Timestamps:

• 0:00 - Intro: Celebrating the stories of missionaries' next chapters
• 1:08 - Connecting audio and starting the conversation with Jeff
• 2:11 - The importance of preparation and legal releases before recording
• 3:12 - Sharing photos for social media and the value of authentic representation
• 4:13 - The process of post-editing and the timeline for episode releases
• 5:36 - Connecting with servicemen and women, including a notable contact in Chile
• 6:45 - The influence of well-known figures and shared faith journeys
• 8:02 - Reflecting on the first mission in Peru and Texas in the 1970s
• 9:15 - The significance of language immersion and cultural adaptation
• 10:12 - The importance of accepting the timing and readiness for service
• 11:43 - Trusting divine guidance during missionary efforts
• 12:21 - Encouragement for legal and spiritual preparations before missionary service
• 13:28 - The role of quality audio in recording and sharing stories
• 14:54 - Jeff’s personal mission story and reflections on faith in Peru
• 15:48 - Lessons from serving in San Antonio, Texas
• 16:35 - Deepening faith through mission experiences and relationships
• 17:36 - The enduring bonds with those served in Peru
• 18:17 - The lifelong desire to serve, inspired by family history
• 19:30 - Key elements of readiness and spiritual preparation
• 20:58 - The personal conversion experience during early missionary service
• 21:23 - The ongoing process of faith and reliance on the Savior
• 22:25 - The impact of returning home and adjusting to new realities
• 23:42 - Lessons learned from local sacrifices and humility
• 25:29 - How service in Africa transformed Jeff’s perspective on faith and materialism
• 28:05 - The value of service in diverse cultural contexts and its influence
• 29:13 - The importance of faith, faithfulness, and personal sacrifice
• 30:03 - The unexpected call to serve in Nairobi, Kenya, and the beauty of obedience
• 34:33 - Developing readiness: the story of a missionary who lacked a testimony but showed integrity
• 37:45 - The importance of internal testimony and preparedness for effective service
• 39:08 - Supporting young missionaries and emphasizing personal spiritual conviction
• 44:03 - Practical advice: Developing the Spirit’s promptings and sharing testimony with courage
• 45:03 - The significance of practicing and gaining confidence in sharing gospel messages
• 53:44 - The inspiring stories of faith and miracles among the people in Africa
• 55:08 - Seniors embarking on missions later in life and the blessings of shared purpose
• 58:56 - Final counsel: guidance for return missionaries entering their next chapters with purpose

In this episode, Nate shares his story of serving in Spain, returning home, facing life's unexpected trials of divorce and death, and finding meaning in pain through faith and the Savior. His vulnerability illuminates how challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and how turning to Christ can fill the emptiest spaces.

In this episode:

• Nate reflects on his childhood in Salt Lake City, service in Spain, and the cultural richness of Malaga and Madrid.
•  The profound impact of the transition from a successful, easy life to the painful reality of divorce and loss.
•  How a divine whisper of "you are being prepared, not punished" shifted Nate’s perspective amidst grief.
• The importance of prayer, scriptural understanding, and Christ’s Atonement in healing heartache.
•  Lessons learned from the Savior’s presence in suffering, bitterness, and grief.
•  The powerful story of Nate’s young son reminding him of who holds him together.
•  The significance of grace, forgiveness, and extending compassion to oneself and others.
•  Practical advice for return missionaries and anyone navigating life's difficult chapters: holding on, carrying pain, and trusting in Christ’s eternal love.

Timestamps: 

00:50 - Nate’s childhood and missionary service in Spain
02:20 - Culture, relaxation, and mission experiences in Malaga and Madrid
03:15 - Reflection on the anticipation versus reality of a mission
04:24 - Facing the emotional withdrawal after returning home
05:12 - Transition from mission to college and summer sales work
07:18 - The life Nate envisioned before unforeseen trials
09:36 - The pivotal moment of divorce and life-shattering trials
10:54 - Applying faith and scripture to navigate profound pain
12:18 - Lessons from the Savior in Gethsemane and divine preparation
14:29 - Filling the void with Christ amid emptiness and loss
15:54 - Heartfelt prayers on the football field and divine presence
17:55 - Turning pain into a path for growth through Christ’s love
22:36 - The whisper of "you are being prepared" during tragic loss
24:43 - Naomi’s story of bitterness and God’s presence in trials
26:12 - Recognizing others’ pain and the Lord’s companionship
28:17 - The role of therapy and prayer in healing
29:40 - The importance of carrying grief rather than erasing it
31:15 - Trusting Christ to carry us through life’s storms
33:12 - The profound lesson from Nate’s son about divine support
35:28 - Handling judgment and misunderstanding with faith and grace
39:09 - The encouragement from Kipling’s poem "If" and trusting God's plan
41:19 - Extending grace in judgments and mistakes, inspired by God's love
43:16 - A message of hope and resilience for those in difficult chapters
45:24 - Final encouragement: hold on, trust, and rely on the Savior’s love

Link:

 If - https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46473/if---

Summary:

In this conversation, Richard reflects his upbringing, mission, career, and the spiritual lessons that shaped his life. Richard shares a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective on returning from a mission, learning to understand worth versus worthiness, and how repentance can be framed in a healthy, hopeful way rather than through shame. He also discusses his work as a YSA bishop, how that experience led him to better understand LGBTQ Latter-day Saints, and why his podcast and book have become a labor of love focused on listening, learning, and loving.

Key Messages

• A mission can be both transformative and jarring, especially when returning to normal life afterward.
• Worth is inherent; worthiness can change, but a person’s divine value does not.
• Shame is destructive, while guilt can be constructive when it leads toward growth and healing.
• Repentance should be viewed as a path toward wholeness, not as a reason for self-loathing.
• Labels can be limiting; understanding the deeper causes beneath behaviors helps people heal more effectively.
• LGBTQ Latter-day Saints should be seen as “our own people,” not as outsiders.
• Zion is unity, not sameness, and the gospel invites kindness, inclusion, and understanding.
• Return missionaries should author their own story and anchor self-worth in Christ, not comparison.

Timestamps

• 1:18 — Welcome and introduction
• 1:48 — Richard’s upbringing and family background
• 6:00 — Mission call to England Manchester and relationship with mission president Ellis Ivory
• 7:58 — Mission experiences, growth, and companionship with David Rutley
• 10:43 — Challenges of returning home after the mission
• 13:06 — Worth versus worthiness; shame and divine love
• 15:34 — Pornography, deeper causes, and the “iceberg” framework
• 17:30 — The prodigal son, repentance, and returning as a son or daughter
• 19:43 — The problem with checklists in relationships
• 26:53 — Career focus, the swimming pool analogy, and finding direction
• 31:07 — The origin of Listen, Learn, and Love
• 32:53 — Becoming a YSA bishop and learning about LGBTQ Latter-day Saints
• 36:28 — Why LGBTQ people should be seen as our own people
• 41:00 — Advice to return missionaries: author your own story and build on Christ

https://www.listenlearnandlove.org/

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/luke/15?lang=eng

In this episode, we explore the transformative journey of a former missionary who turned into a beacon of hope for countless young people battling mental health struggles and thoughts of suicide. Dr. Hudnall shares vulnerable stories from his childhood, mission, and professional life, emphasizing the power of genuine connection, community, and faith to save lives.

In this episode: 

• Dr. Hudnell reflects on how his early years shaped his advocacy for the underdog
• The pivotal moment that led him from feeling lost to serving a mission and how it launched his life's purpose
• The inspiring story of how Hope Squad was born out of tragic need in Utah schools
• Practical insights into recognizing warning signs and having courageous conversations
• The importance of being present, listening, and showing love to those who feel invisible
• Ways to empower youth, parents, and communities to prevent suicides and promote mental health
• The role of faith and the gospel principles that underpin Hope Squad’s mission
• Personal stories of mentors, companionship, and the importance of seeing and being seen

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Introduction and the importance of hope after mission service 

00:51 - Dr. Hudnall’s childhood and early influences 

1:08 - The life lessons from his father and advocacy for the underdog 

1:31 - Returning to the church and decision to serve a mission 

2:20 - A transformative moment at the gas station leading to his mission call 

3:20 - Overcoming challenges during his mission in Las Vegas 

4:08 - Lessons learned from mentors and the importance of community 

6:39 - Reflections on coming home and the power of divine guidance 

7:18 - How a community college scholarship changed his life trajectory 

8:17 - Taking steps to further his education with faith and support 

10:26 - Mentors in education and life that helped shape his journey 

12:15 - The story behind establishing Hope Squad and its impact 

20:04 - Tragic stories that fueled the purpose of suicide prevention 

22:48 - How Hope Squad identifies at-risk youth and the importance of peer support 

25:22 - The significance of early intervention and the dangers of loneliness 

28:30 - Real-life examples of Hope Squad in action saving lives 

30:27 - Recognizing warning signs and the crucial role of friends and adults 

32:07 - Practical advice for those witnessing signs of distress 

36:36 - Being present and listening as the greatest act of love 

43:01 - The importance of being seen and heard in mental health 

50:38 - The gospel principles that guide the mission of Hope Squad 

54:05 - Advice to younger self and the power of hope 

55:15 - How everyone can be a hero in someone else's life regardless of faith background 

56:11 - Words of encouragement for return missionaries and their continued impact 

57:24 - Final thoughts: making a life of service and love

Resources & Links:

• Greg Hudnall
  Hope Squad Founder 
  Phone. (801) 342-3444 
  Web. hope (http://www.hopesquad.com/)4utah.com (http://4utah.com/)
  Address. 5455 North River Run Dr Provo, UT 84604

In this episode, we sit down with McKenzie Johnson, a resilient and authentic voice who shares her journey through challenges like addiction, mental health struggles, and the heartbreaking loss by suicide of loved ones. Her story is a beacon of hope, showing how turning to faith, vulnerability, and connection can illuminate even the darkest paths. McKenzie’s honesty aims to inspire return missionaries and others navigating their unique next chapters with courage and grace.In this episode:

• McKenzie’s inspired birth and its spiritual significance
• Growing up with a convert mom and faithful lineage
• Her lifelong desire to serve a mission and the joyful shock of the age change
• Facing opposition, anxiety, and depression while preparing for her mission
• The powerful moment of packing her bags to go home and her journey back through faith and support
• The profound impact of addiction, mental health, and family struggles on her life
• Lessons learned about shame versus guilt and the importance of connection
• The influence of personal trials on her ability to empathize and serve
• Advice for returning missionaries and anyone facing next chapter uncertainties
• The importance of focusing on the Savior and living with eternal perspective

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction: McKenzie’s story of resilience and vulnerability
• 02:24 - The spiritual impression of being a "Saturday’s Warrior"
• 04:55 - Her lifelong dream to serve a mission
• 06:33 - The moment of the mission age change announcement
• 08:23 - Obstacles faced before entering the MTC
• 10:17 - Facing family addiction and personal fears before leaving
• 11:22 - The eternal perspective that fueled her decision
• 14:12 - Returning home after her mission and the emotional reunion
• 15:09 - The mental health challenges missionaries face
• 16:29 - Packing to go home: vulnerability and the journey to healing
• 19:52 - Wisdom on overcoming perfectionism and feelings of unworthiness
• 22:37 - Mental health awareness within the church, inspired by Elder Holland
• 24:38 - Family addiction struggles and lessons learned
• 27:28 - Honesty about addictions and building real connection
• 29:51 - The profound significance of family bonds and faith during hardships
• 32:13 - The tragic loss of her brother and her testimony of the plan of salvation
• 36:08 - Turning darkness into light through faith and vulnerability
• 38:13 - Advice on overcoming addiction and the power of connection
• 43:05 - The importance of hope, faith, and pushing forward with God’s vision
• 45:30 - The Pioneer trek and the lesson of perseverance
• 49:29 - Closing encouragement: Keep pushing forward because God sees the whole path

In this episode, Richie Franklin shares his journey of transformation from a faithful missionary in Paraguay to a versatile actor, scholar, author, and devoted father of seven. His story explores the importance of faith, intentional living, and investing in oneself to navigate life's shifting chapters with purpose and God's guidance.

In this episode:

• How Richie's mission and faith laid a foundation for his life's next steps
• The significance of owning your testimony and making faith deeply personal
• Transitioning from a mission to the world of entertainment, family, and academia
• The role of safe launches and safe landings in life's transitions
• The importance of personal investment, grit, and seeking divine harmony in our talents
• Balancing careers, family, and spiritual growth amid life's challenges
• How to develop your own "North Star" rooted in a relationship with Heavenly Father

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introducing Richie Franklin and his inspiring journey
• 01:22 - How faith and family prepared Richie for mission challenges
• 03:12 - Personal testimony development and owning your faith
• 08:00 - Navigating the transition from mission life to the secular world
• 10:14 - The power of unconditional love and self-investment post-mission
• 14:30 - The importance of safe launch and safe landings in life
• 17:10 - Embracing quiet time and self-reflection after returning home
• 20:36 - Harmonizing diverse talents and careers with divine purpose
• 25:04 - Building family and prioritizing life's sacred relationships
• 33:49 - Lessons learned about investments in life and eternal priorities
• 37:27 - The core role of a divine relationship as the true North Star

In this episode, Tyrone Foster shares a vulnerable story of overcoming early adversity, losing his father at a young age, and the powerful ways faith and purpose life gave him clarity and direction. His story is meant to inspire and guide others navigating similar post-mission transitions and challenges.

Key Topics

• Tyrone’s childhood in Florida, shaped by a loving, resilient family.
• The profound impact of losing his father in the U.S. Navy at age five.
• How his father’s goals and a chance encounter changed the course of his life.
• Discovering the gospel and the pivotal moments leading to his faith journey.
• The transformative power of a mission, serving others, and embracing identity as a child of God.
• The concept of the unexpected “Liahona”—a personal guide to purpose inspired by a life-saving encounter.
• Transitioning into emotional intelligence and his work with family offices.
• Practical advice for return missionaries: maintaining divine identity and trusting the process.

Timestamps

00:00 - Welcome and episode overview

00:22 - Tyrone’s early upbringing in Florida and family background

01:21 - Childhood dreams and family dynamics

02:36 - The tragic loss of Tyrone’s father during military service

04:11 - The emotional impact of losing a father at age five

05:41 - How Tyrone felt his father’s presence despite his absence

06:14 - Discovering his father’s goals through a goal list and impact stories

07:10 - How a single conversation at a memorial changed Tyrone’s outlook

08:01 - Finding his father’s goals and the significance of the list

09:47 - The discovery that led Tyrone to serve a mission and find the church

11:00 - The importance of his father's “Liahona”—a personal guide born from impactful encounters

12:09 - Overcoming challenges and growth after his father’s death

13:11 - The role of faith and perseverance during college and football years

15:09 - Prayer and spiritual guidance leading Tyrone to the LDS Church

17:30 - His journey to the LDS Church as a college student

19:03 - The decision to serve a mission following baptism at 19

20:14 - Sacrifice and divine guidance in preparing for the mission

23:08 - The significance of giving up football to follow spiritual callings

26:53 - Miracles and divine timing in his mission preparation

27:48 - Lessons learned from divine guidance and trusting the Lord

29:45 - Reflections on life after the mission and career transition

31:00 - Embracing emotional intelligence (EI/EQ) in personal and professional life

33:00 - Navigating family dynamics and legacy in the context of wealth and inheritance

35:41 - Next gen training, understanding interpretations versus facts in relationships

40:22 - Imagining a final conversation with his father about his life and journey

41:51 - Closing reflections on his life achievements and legacy

Resources & Links

• www.camelotvp.com