Return Missionary Next Chapters

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary story of Wilford Wu—an international missionary from Beijing who faced monumental challenges after returning from his mission. Wilford's story is a testament to resilience, divine miracles, and the importance of trusting God's plan through every season of life.

In this episode:

• Wilford shares how he prepared to serve a mission from Beijing to Seattle, navigating cultural and language barriers
• The surprising moment when his mission call was unexpectedly changed at the airport, leading to a Mandarin-speaking assignment in a new area
• A personal account of a miracle prayer that alleviated pain moments before departing for his mission
• The emotional struggle and miraculous support during Wilford's post-mission family business bankruptcy
• Insights on how faith in Jesus Christ and personal testimony helped Wilford overcome deep despair and loneliness
• Practical advice for returned missionaries considering education abroad and the importance of counseling with Heavenly Father
• Wilford’s ongoing journey of growth, helping his family, and preparing for his next chapters with unwavering faith

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: Wilford Wu’s compelling story of mission, miracles, and next chapters

02:05 - Preparing for a foreign mission from Beijing to Seattle

06:20 - Overcoming language barriers and first miracle prayer at SeaTac Airport

08:34 - The unexpected change: speaking Chinese in Mercer Island

12:09 - Starting a new Chinese branch and building faith through language and service

15:31 - Returning home to family bankruptcy and post-mission struggles

17:56 - The emotional journey: from disappointment to divine support

20:21 - Working to support family and pursuing education abroad

21:44 - How faith and divine guidance shaped Wilford’s decisions

27:17 - Navigating the lowest points: loneliness, despair, and seeking help

29:55 - Turning point: trusting in Christ’s atonement and feeling divine love

32:39 - Advice for returned missionaries: following divine counsel in next chapters

33:41 - Reflection: trusting God’s path amidst uncertainty and change

35:40 - Closing thoughts: embracing the next chapters with faith and hope

This episode features a conversation with Judge Thomas Griffith, a former Federal Appellate Judge in Washington DC, who shares his spiritual journey, from early complex feelings about religion to a profound conversion experience that shaped his life. His story reveals insights into faith, service, perseverance, and the importance of staying committed to personal beliefs and Church, even through doubts and struggles. Whether you're a returned missionary or exploring faith, this conversation aims to inspire vulnerable honesty and actionable faith-based reflections.

In this episode:

• Growing up in the DC area with a rich family history and early church involvement
• Initial curiosity and doubts about religion, and the impact of early spiritual experiences
• The paradigm shifts brought by participating in youth activities and missionary discussions
• How reading the Book of Mormon confirmed its authenticity and changed his perspective
• The influence of compassionate missionary leaders and the power of personal prayer
• Navigating the transition from missionary life back to everyday life
• Lessons learned about obedience, humility, and staying anchored in faith through challenges
• The importance of actively building Christ-centered communities and becoming peacemakers
• Reflections on the evolving nature of the Church and our role in its growth
• Practical advice for post-mission life and remaining faithful in a complex world

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: The power of vulnerability in sharing missionary "next chapters"

02:35 - Growing up with deep family roots and early church experiences

04:50 - The influence of church rituals and early spiritual feelings during youth

06:57 - How a relationship with a non-member sparked curiosity about the church

09:10 - Unexpected joy and paradigm shifts from youth activities and Firesides

10:37 - The book that changed everything: The Book of Mormon experience

13:49 - A moment with missionary leaders and its lasting impact

15:10 - Overcoming skepticism: The rational and spiritual journey to conviction

18:20 - How studying the Book of Mormon deepened faith and understanding

20:17 - The intellectual case that points to divine origins of the Book of Mormon

22:57 - The profound witness: living and internalizing the gospel

25:38 - Decision to serve a mission: family support and personal motivation

27:06 - The supportive and influential mission leadership experience

30:27 - Mission in South Africa: lessons in humility and divine guidance

33:16 - The divine power of prayer and personal moments of connection

34:35 - Experiences with leaders like Elder Gong and the sacred nature of touch and tenderness

36:17 - The parable of the prodigal son and spiritual embrace

38:23 - The relentless pursuit of love and the Lord’s compassion

39:24 - Learning to obey out of love and the journey to spiritual maturity

41:12 - The importance of obedience as a reflection of love for God

43:24 - How to navigate post-mission doubts and challenges in faith

45:22 - Establishing daily gospel habits and lifelong commitment to the Church

47:17 - Become a disciple: the core priority in living a meaningful gospel life

49:45 - The importance of building the kingdom and helping in the Church’s growth

52:22 - Overcoming division in America: the gospel’s role in healing and unity

55:15 - A new vision for the Church: from separation to celestial purpose

58:09 - The role of Latter-day Saints in promoting peace and understanding

60:00 - The "origin story" of the Church: refugees returning as peacemakers

63:29 - The call to be witnesses of love, mercy, and the Savior’s example

64:49 - Final words: stay faithful, stay humble, and stay actively involved

66:51 - Closing encouragement: the ongoing journey of faith and service

In this episode, Neil Knight shares his inspiring journey from growing up as a lone member in Oklahoma to serving a mission in Madagascar and Mauritius, and ultimately finding his path in life and faith. Join us as Neil reflects on the lessons learned from his mission, his family’s intergenerational spiritual story, and practical advice for return missionaries navigating their own next chapters with faith and intention.

In this episode:

• Neil’s experience growing up as one of the few members in his community
• How reading the Book of Mormon at age 8 shaped his spiritual foundation
• The excitement and surprises of receiving his mission call to Madagascar and Mauritius
• The story of his mother’s conversion and her featured moment in General Conference
• Transitioning back home and finding purpose through temple service
• Studying at BYU, navigating multiple majors, and trusting the Lord's guidance
• Lessons of patience, resilience, and faith in decision-making
• Practical advice for return missionaries to set spiritual milestones and plan their next chapters
• The importance of creating intentional habits to grow spiritually, professionally, and personally

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and overview of Neil’s inspiring journey
 02:19 - Growing up as a church member in Oklahoma
 03:06 - Educating others about the Church’s traditions and misconceptions
 03:40 - The impact of reading the Book of Mormon early in life
 05:50 - Deciding to serve a mission and factors influencing that choice
 07:05 - The excitement of receiving his Madagascar and Mauritius call
 08:26 - The emotional moment opening his mission call
 09:40 - The story of his mother’s conversion and her baptism facilitated by Elder Anderson
 12:49 - Family ties and cultural experiences in Mauritius
 15:28 - First weeks home and steps to find purpose after returning
 16:56 - Language and cultural adaptability in Madagascar and Mauritius
 17:17 - Navigating changing college majors and trusting the Lord’s guidance
 18:49 - Lessons learned: patience, resilience, and faith
 23:27 - Advice for return missionaries: setting spiritual milestones and creating lifelong habits
 24:40 - Closing thoughts on preparing for the next chapters with purpose

In this inspiring episode, Hailie Gill shares her authentic story of serving in India as the first foreign woman in her mission. She faced significant health challenges and discovered her true calling in medicine and service. Hailie's journey highlights the resilience, faith, and purpose that can emerge when life doesn’t go as planned. Her experiences offer inspiration and tangible lessons for others stepping into their next chapter after a mission. From navigating cultural barriers and unexpected health crises to finding a renewed sense of purpose, Hailie's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith.Main Topics Covered:

• The impact of a global upbringing and family legacy in shaping service-oriented resilience
• The emotional and spiritual weight of carrying a family and community legacy while forging a personal testimony
• Navigating culture shock and language barriers in India as the first and only foreign sister missionary
• How faith was strengthened through unexpected health crises, including Christmas Eve in the ER
• Lessons learned from medical experiences abroad—empathy, sacrifice, and calling
• Transitioning from mission life to post-mission recovery, education, and calling in medicine
• Practical advice for return missionaries struggling with purpose and purposefulness in the next chapters

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction & Hailie’s rich family history with the Church in India

02:09 - Preparing for the mission: family legacy as a source of strength and pressure

03:06 - The emotional weight of representing a family legacy during the mission

04:26 - The significance of spiritual testimony rooted in constant, small experiences

07:11 - Discovering her call to serve in New Delhi and opening her mission call

08:35 - The moment Hailie learned she was going to India amidst family disbelief

09:45 - Training in Provo with a unique group bound for India, facing culture shock

10:22 - First impressions of Delhi, language, and the overwhelming urban landscape

15:29 - Serving on Christmas Eve in the ER and passing out Light the World cards

17:34 - Managing long-term illness in India and contemplating returning home

18:55 - Miraculous recovery and finishing her mission with two transfers left

21:07 - Family visit, engaging with early church members, and family history in India

22:17 - Reflection on health setbacks post-mission and how they refined her empathy

28:34 - Lessons from her service influencing her medical path—sacrifice, compassion, and resilience

31:32 - Advice for return missionaries: sustaining routines, faith, and purpose in the next chapters

33:21 - Closing thoughts: Lighting the world through service and the importance of next chapters

In this episode Rachel Bayles shares about her journey through unexpected life changes, including being a performer's wife and dealing with mental health and faith transitions. Rachel, an artist and mother of five, talks about her journey into the unknown and the need to follow the promptings of the Spirit. Rachel also shares about finding peace in her creative pursuits.

Timestamps:

• 0:01 - Introduction to Rachel Bayles
• 0:54 - Growing Up and Early Influences
• 4:35 - Deciding to Serve a Mission
• 11:29 - Marriage and Career Decisions
• 19:29 - Family Life and Challenges
• 24:15 - Supporting Children with Unique Challenges
• 29:13 - Returning to Creative Pursuits
• 32:29 - Finding Peace and Joy
• 36:04 - Advice for Returned Missionaries

In this episode, Séphora Giraud-Carrier shares her transformative journey from a frustrated teen in Lyon to a passionate advocate for women's health and an inspiring future scholar. Her story highlights resilience, faith, and the power of embracing life’s unexpected turns, offering valuable lessons for anyone navigating post-mission life and beyond.

Key Topics

• Growing up French in Utah: cultural identity and the impact of international moves
• The emotional challenges of moving to France as a teen and feeling out of place
• How confinement during COVID-19 brought her closer to family and deepened her faith
• The evolution of her desire to serve a mission, despite initial resistance
• Lessons learned from her mission about expectations, standards, and living authentically
• Her academic shift from pre-med aspirations to a focus on family health and global women’s studies
• Passion for empowering women through sexual health education and advocacy
• Applying her international experiences and faith to her future marriage and career
• Advice for returning missionaries: embracing authenticity and purpose in the next chapter
• Reflection to her 16-year-old self: accepting life’s unexpected detours as divine

Timestamp Highlights

(00:01) - Introducing Sephora’s journey from France to Hawaii and beyond

(01:20) - Growing up French in Utah and feeling caught between cultures

(02:48) - The emotional weight of moving to France as a teenager

(04:29) - Social challenges and cultural clashes in Lyon

(08:06) - How COVID-19 confinement strengthened family bonds and faith

(11:24) - The unexpected calling to serve a mission and reflections on independence

(14:42) - Lessons on expectations, standards, and communication with Heavenly Father

(19:32) - The overwhelming transition back to normal life and post-mission adjustments

(23:47) - Embracing life's messiness and applying gospel principles authentically

(24:33) - The academic shift from dreams of becoming an OBGYN to global women's health

(29:19) - Discovering her passion for sexual violence prevention and empowerment

(33:22) - How her international upbringing influences her future marriage and career

(36:35) - Advice to her 16-year-old self: embracing life's detours and divine timing

(38:32) - Words of wisdom for recent return missionaries: live authentically and actively

In this episode, we explore Isaac Hadley's inspiring journey of resilience, faith, and perseverance after returning from his mission. He shares heartfelt stories of challenges, the importance of relationships, and the power of following divine promptings to build a life full of purpose and joy. If you're navigating your own new chapter, Isaac's story offers real, vulnerable insights and motivation to keep moving forward.

Key topics:

• Isaac’s early life in Hawaii and decision to serve a mission
• The emotional reality of returning home and adjusting post-mission
• How mission experiences developed his people skills and resilience
• The faith-driven decision to start Cocoa Shrimp food truck
• Overcoming setbacks like engine failures and regulatory hurdles
• Establishing a family-centered business culture of trust and fairness
• The importance of following spiritual promptings for life's big decisions
• Living big: embracing struggles and finding joy in the journey
• Building partnerships in entrepreneurship with family
• The role of prayer, clarity, and divine guidance in decision-making
• Lessons learned about pride, pride in work, and enjoying the process

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Introduction: From mission to business success 

01:14 - Isaac’s background and early family influences 

02:39 - Returning home from Fresno mission; the struggle of reintegration 

03:51 - Mission lessons that shaped his ability to connect with anyone 

07:10 - How mission work prepared Isaac for customer service and leadership 

09:42 - Spirit-led decisions: The story behind starting Cocoa Shrimp 

11:10 - The impact of prayer and divine guidance on critical life choices 

12:50 - Facing setbacks: Engine blowouts and industry challenges 

18:23 - The importance of community, prayer, and divine help in adversity 

19:53 - Living big culture: joy, struggle, and embracing life's challenges 

28:24 - Maintaining fairness and honesty in family business relationships 

29:30 - Living big: finding joy in the journey and struggles 

33:04 - Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: go for it, enjoy the process 

32:12 - Building a family partnership: working with brother-in-law Jordan 

37:48 - The importance of following promptings and choosing joy

In this episode, Will Simmons shares his story of transitioning from a humble missionary in Chile to a successful entrepreneur and community builder. His experiences highlight the profound lessons learned through faith, service, and perseverance—lessons that continue to shape his life and his dedication to helping others. This episode is a call for return missionaries (and everyone) to embrace their ongoing journey with vulnerability, purpose, and a spirit of giving.

Key Topics:

• Will’s early roots in Texas and childhood experiences inspiring his values
• The journey to serving in the Santiago North Mission in Chile and lessons learned
• The transformative power of service and focusing on others during hard times
• How missionary work deepened his understanding of the love of God and self-worth
• The importance of asking questions and inviting others, both in missions and life
• Transitioning from mission life to academic success and embracing challenging environments like LSE and Harvard
• The value of humility, delegation, and doing the quiet work that nobody notices
• Mentorship and network building that have supported his career and personal growth
• The “Learn, Earn, and Give Back” philosophy rooted in service and purpose
• Practical advice for returning missionaries navigating life’s next chapters with faith and resilience

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Will Simmons’ inspiring journey

02:22 - Growing up in Houston and balancing faith with community involvement

05:52 - Decision-making moments about serving a mission and the role of bold invitations

08:46 - Lessons learned from serving in Chile, including joy through service and spiritual growth

09:42 - How missionary service deepens perspective on Christ and relationships

11:55 - Reflecting on the significance of the mission and God’s love for us

14:59 - Early days back home with Paige and the rapid pace of life post-mission

16:24 - Balancing school, love, and service: lessons from academic pursuits

19:04 - The rigorous experience at London School of Economics and the value of multicultural environments

21:00 - Pursuing an MBA at Harvard and lessons on leadership and humility

23:39 - Transitioning to the energy industry and navigating economic cycles

25:12 - Gaining real-world experience through government and private sector roles

27:52 - Lessons about the importance of mentorship and giving without expectation

30:25 - The impact of small acts — treating everyone with love and respect

33:15 - Words of encouragement to new return missionaries and embracing hardships with faith

34:50 - Trusting in God's plan for your next chapters and moving forward with purpose

In this episode, we hear a heartfelt and authentic story of Mayumi Namgur who navigated the profound challenges of seeing her family step away from the gospel of Jesus Christ, infertility, cancer, loss, and faith—yet emerged stronger, more compassionate, and deeply anchored in her spiritual journey. Her story highlights how life's toughest moments can become catalysts for growth, service, and greater understanding of divine love. We aim to inspire former missionaries and others to see their "next chapters" as opportunities to continue evolving and loving. In this episode we cover:

• Growing up with influences of Buddhism, Shintoism, and the introduction to Christianity in Japan
• The transformative power of faith in the face of familial and personal struggles 
• The significance of missionary work in shaping life choices and spiritual resilience 
• Navigating the post-mission transition and seeking meaning after returning home 
• Overcoming infertility, grief, and feelings of betrayal, while finding hope through faith 
• Living intentionally through service, dedication, and devotion to God's will 
• How the experience of living and serving abroad continues to inspire leadership and compassion

 Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: Embracing the "next chapters" after missionary service
 02:15 - Early spiritual influences in childhood: Buddhism, Shintoism, and family teachings
 03:34 - Coming to faith: Encountering the missionaries and the plan of salvation
 05:08 - Challenges in faith: Family contention and the decision to be baptized
 06:56 - Moving away from childhood faith during teenage years
 09:11 - Returning to the gospel: Serving a mission in Japan with heartfelt commitment
 11:46 - Post-mission life: Returning home and family dynamics
 14:29 - The journey through infertility, personal loss, and emotional pain
 23:37 - Developing hope and understanding God's timing through prayer and prophetic promises
 24:34 - Facing the reality of infertility: Surgeries, grief, and feelings of betrayal
 27:23 - The deep pain of not having children and feelings of inadequacy
 29:37 - Finding spiritual reassurance in patriarchal blessings and divine promises
 30:36 - Moving forward: Commitment to God's plan despite uncertainties
 33:24 - Living through loss: How spiritual growth emerged from tragedy
 36:03 - Living servicefully: Serving in Mongolia and the influence of experiences abroad
 38:55 - Embracing "next chapters": Leadership, teaching, and global service
 43:53 - Guidance for returning missionaries: Navigating new life phases with faith and resilience
 44:12 - The importance of daily scripture study for spiritual strength
 46:14 - Concluding thoughts: Dedication in everyday tasks as service to the Savior
 47:41 - Final reflections: Living intentionally and trusting divine guidance

In this heartfelt episode, former missionary Chloe Evans shares her journey of faith, resilience, and rediscovering purpose after health challenges during her mission, and future reassignment to a Service Missionary. Her story is a powerful testament to trusting divine guidance and finding joy in every chapter of life, especially after service. Listeners will be inspired to embrace their next chapters with hope, humility, and joy.

Key Topics

• Chloe’s early life and frequent moves across Hawaii, England, Washington, and Utah — how adaptability prepared her for a mission.
• The importance of attitude and perspective in handling change and adversity.
• Chloe’s spontaneous decision to serve a mission after a divine prompting.
• The development of her health issues in Arizona and her journey through diagnosis and recovery.
• Transitioning from a mission to new service and educational pursuits after returning home.
• How her faith helped her navigate health crises, transfers, and the emotional transition out of her mission.
• Lessons in joy, service, and finding purpose beyond the mission.
• Practical advice for missionaries facing health struggles, fear of early exit, and post-mission challenges.
• Embracing the next chapter with love for life, faith, and ongoing service.

Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction and Chloe’s diverse background that prepared her for change

02:30 - The lessons learned from frequent moves and embracing flexibility

03:50 - Maintaining long-term friendships despite geographical shifts

05:14 - Chloe’s initial thoughts on serving a mission and divine prompts to serve

06:10 - How her health challenges began in Arizona and the impact on her mission

08:00 - The process of diagnosis, hospital visits, and her determination to stay engaged

11:53 - Transitioning from a mission with health issues and the support she received

12:23 - Overcoming stereotypes and biases about transferring and health setbacks

13:48 - Living in a small household during renovation and adapting to new living situations

16:14 - The variety of service opportunities in Hawaii and choosing to serve with joy

18:24 - Chloe’s positive attitude and finding joy in service even in challenging circumstances

19:18 - The emotional and spiritual transition after mission end — from tears to acceptance

20:18 - Reflections on the first days after removing her mission tag and starting a new life chapter

21:35 - The importance of support systems and prayer in navigating transitions

22:32 - How her mission influenced her current path in public health and disability care

23:01 - Her educational pursuits and commitment to serving individuals with disabilities

26:23 - Practical advice for missionaries struggling with health, fears, and transition

28:20 - Cherishing the present and moving forward with faith, joy, and purpose