Return Missionary Next Chapters

In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Mikayla Yuen, a missionary who faced delays, health challenges, and difficult decisions — and who found hope and purpose in her next mission chapter as a Service Missionary. Her vulnerability and faith offer inspiration for others navigating similar transitions, emphasizing that God's love and purpose extend beyond the mission field.

Key Topics:

• The impact of mental health concerns on mission planning and calling
• How prayer and spiritual confirmation guided her decision to return home
• Navigating feelings of failure and societal stigma around leaving a mission early
• The emergence of service missions as a meaningful alternative
• Balancing family responsibilities with spiritual growth during transition
• The significance of temple experiences and divine guidance in making tough choices
• How sharing talents, like hula, symbolizes gratitude and cultural identity
• Studying psychology in relation to personal growth and helping others
• Encouraging hope and resilience for missionaries who return early or face health challenges
• The importance of self-worth and Heavenly Father's love, regardless of mission duration

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The journey from mission delay to hope
00:15 - Mikayla’s experience with mental health concerns before her mission
00:39 - Spiritual reassurance through prayer and divine confirmation
01:36 - Deciding to serve and her call to Riverside, California
02:34 - Discovering San Bernardino and the unique landscape
04:07 - Feelings of anxiety and physical sickness during her mission
04:28 - Conversations with family and the importance of open communication
05:38 - Recognizing patterns of illness and mental health struggles
06:26 - The role of prayer and priesthood blessings in coping
07:22 - Divine experiences in the temple and receiving confirmation
08:12 - Talking with mission leaders and the decision to go home
09:29 - The significance of temple insights in her decision
10:15 - Her feelings about leaving and the divine reassurance received
12:00 - Concerns about stigma and societal perceptions
13:21 - Transitioning back home and what that felt like
14:27 - Examples of service missionaries and their impact
15:20 - The power of shared service and leadership in her next chapter
16:45 - Overcoming fears of stigma and embracing her story
19:20 - The "best of both worlds": a hybrid of service and family
20:32 - Sharing culture through hula and expressions of gratitude
23:27 - Reflecting on her mission experience and its sacredness
24:50 - The value of facing challenges and the sacredness of hard things
27:27 - Advice for missionaries who feel they've failed
28:24 - The importance of covenants and trusting God's plan
29:01 - Mikayla’s testimony of Jesus Christ and His love

In this inspiring episode, Janey Nielsen shares her story of mission life, personal struggles, and resilience. Her journey from a shortened mission to battling cancer illustrates how life's unexpected chapters can be sources of profound growth and connection. This episode offers vulnerability, hope, and practical advice for anyone facing their own next chapters.

Key Topics

• Janey's initial doubts and the courage to serve a mission despite uncertainties
• The emotional challenges and mental health struggles during her missionary service
• Lessons on hope, perseverance, and the importance of mental health support in demanding circumstances
• The pivotal decision to leave her mission early and the journey of coming to peace with that
• How coming home early affected her view of success, failure, and worth
• The healing power of community, counseling, and personal reinvention after setbacks
• The role of faith, hope, and charity through life’s trials, including her battle with cancer
• Practical advice for supporting others through hardship, emphasizing reach-out and empathy
• Reflection on how hardship can deepen our connection with others and with Christ
• Encouragement for returning missionaries and others navigating difficult next chapters to keep moving forward

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Janey Nielsen’s story and upcoming insights
00:29 - Janey’s initial thoughts about serving a mission and her decision-making process
01:12 - Her experience in the Oklahoma City Mission and the mental health challenges faced
02:53 - Overwhelm, perfectionism, and feelings of despair during her mission
04:26 - The moment she decided she couldn’t continue and her early departure
06:01 - The importance of hope and how it reshaped her perspective on trials
07:23 - Coming home early and how it shaped her understanding of success and failure
08:42 - The loneliness and support systems after returning home
09:59 - How her mission experience influenced her future marriage
11:33 - Her battle with cancer at age 37 and embracing hope amid uncertainty
12:34 - Supporting friends and loved ones going through hard times
14:46 - The significance of charity and service during her illness
15:47 - The healing journey through work, therapy, and faith
16:13 - How her early mission experience blessed her marriage
16:43 - Living with cancer and genetic risks: lessons in resilience
21:33 - Advice for helping others through trauma and hardship
22:21 - The power of reaching out and simple acts of kindness
24:52 - The importance of charity and bearing others’ burdens
27:42 - How community and connection lift us in times of need
29:32 - Final words of encouragement for missionaries and anyone facing difficult next chapters
30:52 - Closing advice to keep moving forward and trusting in Christ

In this episode, we delve into Eduardo Zanatta's journey from a quiet, love-filled childhood in Brazil to becoming a devoted disciple of Christ and a business leader. His story is a powerful testament to divine redirection, persistence, and the transformative power of faith and relationships. Eduardo shares his vulnerabilities candidly, offering valuable lessons for others navigating their post-mission life and seeking purpose beyond perceived limitations.

Main Topics Covered:

• The spiritual awakening triggered by Covey's principles and the search for faith in a foreign land
• Divine providence in opportunities and life’s divine coincidences
• Overcoming feelings of inadequacy as a second-class citizen due to language and cultural barriers
• The importance of perseverance, hard work, and surrounding oneself with upliftment
• Insights on trusting Heavenly Father’s timing and divine delays
• The impactful relationship with Stephen Covey and lessons learned from mentoring
• Practical advice for missionaries and young adults feeling inadequate or uncertain
• The power of small daily commitments and connecting with the Spirit

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Eduardo Zanatta’s story of divine redirection

02:20 - How Covey’s principles and faith met in Eduardo’s family journey

06:30 - The pivotal moment: discovering the Plan of Salvation and divine purpose

09:00 - Meeting Stephen Covey: From autograph to eternal friendship

12:10 - Miraculous encounters with Covey and their impact on Eduardo’s life

16:20 - Lessons from divine coincidences and divine timing

20:35 - Overcoming cultural and language barriers in Utah and in life

23:38 - Facing setbacks: family financial struggles and personal doubts

26:27 - The importance of perseverance, keeping the main thing the main thing

30:01 - An inspiring story of divine intervention through a stranger in New Jersey

33:51 - Post-mission lessons: setbacks in academic and professional paths

36:45 - The remarkable story of finding an internship at Goldman Sachs in New York

40:29 - Lessons from Joseph of Egypt: Staying close to God and divine elevation

43:19 - Heritage and identity: embracing a multicultural background

44:14 - Practical advice for those feeling inadequate or second class

48:13 - Nurturing relationships, mentorship, and paying it forward

52:29 - Building faith and patience in the early chapters of a journey

55:10 - Trusting divine mosaics: life as a collection of divine pieces

57:25 - Final words: staying connected to the Spirit amidst life’s chaos

58:48 - Parting counsel for missionaries and members feeling insufficient or insignificant

61:14 - Concluding thoughts: Take one step today with faith in divine guidance

In this episode, we explore the vulnerable and inspiring story of Remington Riggs Bassett, a former missionary whose journey of grief, recovery, and purpose offers hope to others navigating their post-mission life. His candid reflections on loss, mental health, career pivots, and finding meaning post-mission serve as a beacon for return missionaries feeling lost or overwhelmed.

Key Topics

• The impact of sports injuries and early life challenges on identity
• The process of serving a mission and how growth can come from relationships
• Navigating grief after the loss of a child and emotional isolation
• The importance of community, support, and seeking help in healing
• Transitioning careers: from energy analysis to mental health counseling
• The power of vulnerability, honesty, and embracing pain as part of growth
• Practical advice for return missionaries feeling purposeless or fearful
• The significance of gratitude and daily routines in mental health recovery
• The role of faith, resilience, and intentional self-care in moving forward

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction: Embracing vulnerability in post-mission life

00:25 - How sports injuries shifted your outlook on life

01:48 - Did you always want to serve a mission?

02:43 - Summarizing a fulfilling and challenging mission

03:27 - Returning home and adapting to family changes in London

04:39 - Growing up moving frequently and how it prepared you for change

06:24 - Losing Piper: Processing grief and feeling isolated

07:46 - Supporting Megan after loss and the importance of emotional connection

08:48 - Finding purpose in mental health work and career transition

12:28 - Navigating low points and addiction recovery

14:37 - Returning to school and how pain led to new passions

16:57 - Advice for return missionaries in dark places

17:58 - Practical steps: Gratitude, self-care, and building purpose

18:13 - Overcoming the fear of the unknown through faith and gratitude

20:14 - Closing thoughts: Embracing the valleys and peaks of life

Resources & Links

• Therapist & Counselor Resources
• Mental Health Support & Tips

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of vulnerability, resilience, and faith through Ashleigh Wood Bassett’s story. As a former missionary and mother, Ashleigh shares her journey of overcoming personal battles with anorexia, mental health, and body image—all while embracing her divine purpose and the grace of the Savior. Her story aims to inspire others to see their struggles as part of their next chapter and to find strength in authenticity and faith.

In this episode:

• Ashleigh’s childhood and adventurous upbringing that shaped her resilience
• Her missionary experience in Baltimore and how her background supported her adaptation
• The pivotal moments when her testimony deepened through service and personal sacrifice
• Struggles with anorexia nervosa and body image, and how faith helped her heal
• The significance of recognizing the gift of the body as a divine tool for growth
• Practical ways to embrace grace, vulnerability, and self-love in daily life
• The importance of authenticity and inner qualities over outward appearance
• How gratitude and trusting Jesus can navigate life's steep climbs
• Ashleigh’s advice for those going through their own next chapters

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Ashleigh Wood Bassett’s adventurous life and personal battles

02:25 – Childhood adventures and the foundation of resilience

04:15 – Mission life in Baltimore and adapting to new environments

06:47 – The role of faith and testimony development during service

10:34 – Navigating personal struggles with anorexia and body image

16:24 – Connecting self-compassion with spiritual growth and the Spirit’s guidance

18:37 – Perspective on pregnancy and emphasizing soul over scale

22:15 – Breaking free from generational body image issues and focusing on inner qualities

23:12 – Practical insights for overcoming mental health struggles through faith

27:04 – Lessons about the Savior’s grace from motherhood and leadership

29:05 – The power of grace and humility in daily interactions

30:24 – Ashleigh’s wisdom on gratitude, trust in Jesus, and building others

In this episode, former missionary Reagan Yamauchi Anderson shares her extraordinary journey from the mission field in Hawaii to becoming Miss Idaho and then Miss America. Her story is a powerful reminder that our passions, values, and faith can shape our beautiful, authentic next chapters—even amidst setbacks and challenges.

In this episode:

• Reagan’s upbringing in Soda Springs, Idaho, and early passions for sports.
• How her involvement in basketball and overcoming an ACL injury reshaped her perspective on service and empathy.
• Her inspiring transition from mission life to the pageant world, breaking barriers with her innovative talent act.
• The importance of staying true to personal convictions, especially in high-pressure situations like beauty pageants and national competitions.
• The power of faith, prayer, and remembering the foundation of Christ in everyday life and decision-making.
• Practical advice for return missionaries navigating the complexities of post-mission life and redefining identity after titles fade.
• Reagan’s championing of modesty, authenticity, and divine identity as keys to lasting joy and influence.

Join us for a conversation that emphasizes vulnerability, resilience, and the unbreakable connection to God that guides our 'next chapters', inspiring listeners to pursue greatness rooted in faith and authenticity.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Reagan's unique story from the mission field to Miss Idaho and Miss America
01:27 - Growing up in Soda Springs, Idaho, and early sports involvement
03:00 - Overcoming ACL injury and lessons learned about identity and service
05:29 - A pivotal moment: shifting focus from self to others, leading to leadership roles
07:44 - Reflection on re-entry after mission service and the importance of maintaining faith
12:22 - The decision to pursue pageantry and the journey to becoming Miss Idaho
19:46 - Embracing authenticity in talent and breaking barriers at Miss America
23:34 - Challenges faced with setbacks, second ACL injury, and growth through adversity
27:39 - Redefining identity beyond titles—living with purpose in everyday life
30:29 - Final words of advice for return missionaries and the importance of the Book of Mormon
32:41 - Reagan’s closing thoughts on faith, resilience, and the power of divine foundation

Resources & Links: 

• Book of Mormon
• Helaman 5:12 

Note: Reagan's story illustrates that true greatness is rooted in staying true to your divine identity, faith, and passions. Her vulnerabilities and victories serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement—reminding us all that our next chapters can be just as impactful and fulfilling as our past.

In this touching episode, Kendal Levine shares her inspiring story of overcoming a life-threatening accident, her unwavering faith, and the lessons she's learned about forgiveness, perseverance, and purpose. Whether you're a returned missionary or someone facing your own challenges, Kendal’s vulnerability and strength offer a powerful reminder that our "next chapters" can be filled with hope, growth, forgiveness, and divine purpose.

In this episode:
Kendal’s life before her mission, including her athletic pursuits and scholarship ambitions

• The decision to serve a mission despite setbacks and disappointment
• Her transformative experience on her Australia Sydney South mission
• The details of her tragic accident and divine interventions during recovery
• The importance of forgiveness, even in the face of trauma and loss
• How her faith and family supported her through the darkest moments
• The ongoing mission of sharing her story through firesides and speaking engagements
• Lessons learned about resilience, divine timing, and the power of faith

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Kendal’s life before her mission and her sports achievements
• 01:20 - Her early desire to serve a mission and decision to put sports on hold
• 03:33 - Initial expectations and experiences on her Australia mission
• 08:02 - Her description of the accident and divine protection
• 12:27 - The challenges in her recovery process and miraculous milestones
• 16:26 - Her perspective on forgiveness and forgiving the driver
• 17:34 - The impact of her story and her continued mission work
• 29:20 - How her mission experience has forever changed her outlook on life and service

Summary:
In this episode, Kiana Aquino shares her journey through the challenges of scrupulosity, a form of OCD that affected her mission experience. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and finding hope through divine guidance and therapy. Kiana's insights offer encouragement to those facing similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and the power of inspired leadership.

Key Learnings:

• Understanding scrupulosity and its impact on faith and mental health.
• The role of therapy and priesthood blessings in healing.
• Embracing imperfections and finding strength in vulnerability.
• The importance of inspired leadership and divine guidance.
• How to balance faith with mental health challenges.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction: The internal battles of a missionary with scrupulosity.
• 02:10 - Recognizing OCD and scrupulosity before the mission.
• 05:20 - The internal struggles of repentance and fear of not being worthy.
• 09:35 - The powerful moment when a leader’s inspired reassurance changed everything.
• 12:45 - Deciding to transfer home — listening to divine guidance over fear.
• 20:30 - A service mission: learning that everyone’s ministry is a different but valuable path.
• 26:00 - The role of divine tools—therapy, medication, and faith—in healing.
• 30:15 - Embracing gray areas and the understanding that perfection isn’t expected.
• 33:00 - The importance of remembering Christ and the simplicity of faith amidst trials.
• 34:00 - Final encouragement: You don’t have to be perfect to testify and serve.

Resources & Links:

• Understanding OCD & Scrupulosity
• Therapists who specialize in OCD
• Book: Freedom from Scrupulocity @ https://www.deseretbook.com/product/P6020547.html

This episode highlights the powerful and authentic stories of Nate Sharp, a returned missionary whose life is marked by faith, resilience, and vulnerability. His journey shows how the lessons learned from service, family trials, and profound personal loss shape who we become and how we serve others. If you're navigating your own post-mission life, Nate’s story offers both inspiration and practical insights to trust in God's plan, even through life's uncertainties.

Key Topics:

• The influence of family heritage and early church history on identity
• The profound impact of a sister’s leukemia diagnosis and the faith that sustained the family
• How personal trials, including divorce and loss, deepen faith and perspective
• The importance of recognizing humanity in religious leaders and historical figures
• The spiritual significance of prayer and trusting divine timing
• Transitioning from a traditional career path to academia through faith-driven decisions
• Love story: meeting Holly and embracing divine guidance in relationships
• The sacredness of mourning and finding peace through eternal perspective after losing a child
• The vital role of the rising generation and the importance of uplifting youth and young adults in the church

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Nate Sharp’s impactful life story

02:04 - Heritage and connection to Brigham Young shaping identity

02:50 - Recognizing the humanity of church pioneers and historical figures

05:15 - Growing up with family support and lesson from parental decisions

09:15 - Memories of sister’s leukemia diagnosis and the faith journey

10:11 - Navigating the emotional and financial challenges of illness

13:38 - The significance of sacrament and family support during baptism

17:41 - Serving a mission in Korea: culture, faith, and love for Korea

20:35 - Uncertain moments and divine guidance in career decisions

25:18 - The pivotal question: asking the Lord to close doors

29:13 - Meeting Holly and her joyful spirit—building a love rooted in faith

36:06 - The heartbreak and faith in losing a daughter and the eternal perspective

41:45 - God's plan, salvation, and the hope that sustains through sorrow

42:40 - Love for the rising generation and their vital role in the church’s future

45:43 - The church's future is carried by its youth and young adults

Resources & Links:

• Book: The Plan of Happiness by Gordon B. Hinckley
• Primary Children's Hospital
• Research on Faith and Divine Guidance

Connect with Nate Sharp:

• LinkedIn
• Church Profile

From the Stage to Service: The Next Chapter of a Missionary and Performer’s Life

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Dallyn Bayles—a man whose career in musical theatre and acting beautifully intersects with his unwavering faith and mission-driven life. As a former missionary, Dallyn shares candid insights about transitions, faith, and using talents for service, aiming to help others navigate their own post-mission chapters with purpose and resilience.

In this episode:

• Dallyn reflects on growing up in Green River, Utah, and the early influences that ignited his passion for the arts
• How a transformative experience watching Les Miserables shaped his dreams and spiritual outlook
• The significance of mentors like Miss J and David Warner in guiding his journey and faith
• The challenges and blessings of serving a mission and returning home ready to start life anew
• The importance of spiritual progression, relying on the Spirit, and balancing career ambitions with gospel responsibilities
• Lessons on trust, patience, and humility through career upheavals and uncertainties
• The power of immersing oneself in the study of church history and sacred stories to strengthen testimony and acting authenticity
• Insights on portraying prophets and foundational figures of faith, bringing authenticity and spirit into every role
• Practical advice for returned missionaries stepping into the next chapter: staying close to the Spirit, seeking a temple-sealed eternal companion, and continuous spiritual growth

Timestamps: 

00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Dallyn Bayles’ inspiring journey
 1:11 - Growing up in Green River, Utah, and early artistic influences
 2:12 - Mentors who helped shape Dallyn’s artistic and spiritual path
 3:50 - The transformative impact of witnessing Les Misérables on stage
 6:16 - Desire to serve and bless others through storytelling and performance
 8:46 - The inspiring influence of Miss J and her early support in arts and faith
 10:39 - Serving a mission and the spiritual motivations behind it
 12:12 - Lessons learned from mentors about spiritual progression and trusting in the Lord
 15:19 - Facing worldly temptations and staying grounded in faith
 17:12 - Recognizing the divine call and rejecting deception with the Spirit's help
 18:31 - The importance of continuous spiritual progress in a demanding career
 22:00 - Navigating career uncertainties, big breaks, and trusting divine timing
 24:14 - Balancing family, faith, and professional pursuits
 26:46 - Overcoming trials, uncertainties, and trusting the Lord’s guidance
 28:12 - The role of a supportive spouse and reliance on the Spirit during hard times
 30:01 - Counsel from church leaders about staying open to divine guidance
 31:14 - Humility and patience in receiving revelation and making decisions
 32:55 - The importance of refining the skill of spiritual revelation alongside professional growth
 35:40 - Immersing oneself in the lives of prophets and sacred figures to deepen faith and authenticity
 39:02 - Delivering sacred messages and the Spirit’s influence in portraying church history figures
 44:07 - Striving to serve with authenticity, faith, and the Spirit in every role
 45:31 - The balance of talent, testimony, and the Spirit—preaching through performance
 47:10 - Final advice for returned missionaries contemplating their next chapters: stay close to the Spirit, seek eternal companions, and serve diligently
 48:56 - Closing thoughts: embracing the temple path and lifelong learning in gospel service