Rise & Thrive

Rise & Thrive

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Rise & Thrive episodes

  • CHARITY: Anna Kongaika

    In this episode, Anna shares her story, taking us from her childhood memories on the island of Oahu to the chilly transitions of northern Utah. A central theme of charity weaves through her experiences, shaping her outlook on life. Anna opens up about her mission in Las Vegas, offering honest insights into the challenges of working with companions and the joy that comes from focusing on Christlike attributes. We also explore the importance of finding humor in missionary life and staying true to yourself throughout the process.

    54 min
  • How Do You Handle Hard?: Hailey Church

    In this episode, Hailey shares her powerful experiences of seeing God’s hand in her life. From stepping off a plane after a humanitarian trip only to find out that her family had decided to move from the place she grew up, to navigating the ups and downs of serving a mission, and facing a challenging trial with her fiancé at the time, Hailey’s journey is one of faith, growth, and resilience.

    She offers messages of hope and challenges us to consider how we can uplift and serve "the one." Hailey also emphasizes the importance of observing how others handle hard times and the valuable lessons we can learn from their example.

    1 hr 1 min
  • Gratitude and Grace: Kalli Harris

    In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Kalli Harris and getting to know her vibrant and beautiful personality as she shares her life story. Kalli opens up about the profound experience of losing her dad shortly before her mission and how she navigated—and continues to navigate—that loss with strength and faith. She also shares the impact of two individuals who changed her life while serving in both Brazil and Las Vegas. For those seeking an eternal companion, Kalli offers thoughtful advice on how to prepare and find that special person.

    47 min
  • Joy Has Everything to Do with the Focus of Our Lives; Jared Fotu

    In this episode, I sit down with my husband, Jared, for our first in-person recording. Jared shares his experience growing up in a family of 15, highlighting how his siblings have been incredible examples to him throughout his life. He also reflects on the pivotal role his parents and siblings have played in shaping the person he is today.

    Jared opens up about a life-changing car accident during his junior year of high school and how it shifted his perspective on what truly matters in life. He also shares stories from his mission in New Hampshire, recounting a few powerful, testimony-building experiences. As he helped the people he served—and his companions—focus on the Savior, his own understanding of faith and purpose grew.

    55 min
  • Dare to Stand Alone; Natalie Neuhaus

    In this episode, Natalie shares her story of growing up in Nashville, her decision to serve a mission, and personal experiences of standing firm in her beliefs, even when she had to stand alone. She sets an inspiring example of surrendering her will to God’s and continually striving to focus on the Savior.

    52 min
  • Grounded in God; Kate Anderson

    In this episode, Kate opens up about the joy and hope she has found through her testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. She reflects on her mission in Bolivia, where she experienced God's love through the people she served. However, her faith was profoundly tested upon returning home when she faced one of life's greatest challenges—the loss of a parent. Kate shares how she not only leaned on the experiences from her mission but also deepened her relationship with God through prayer, finding strength to navigate her grief. She offers heartfelt advice and counsel to anyone going through similar trials, reminding us that hope and healing are possible through faith and connection with God.

    56 min
  • Set Goals & Make Plans with God; Lauren Cook

    In this episode, Lauren shares the realities of both the joys and trails of serving a mission. She offers guidance on dealing with companions, managing feelings of homesickness, and staying connected with friends back home. Lauren also discusses how she focuses on Christ's doctrine rather than culture and advises listeners to turn to the prophets and their guidance in daily life.

    48 min
  • Focusing More on the Savior & His Doctrine; Kaitlyn Quackenbush

    In this episode, Kaitlyn shares how she relied on the Lord during her time serving in both Missouri and Sweden throughout the pandemic. She also offers advice on how to start preparing for a mission now. Kaitlyn emphasizes the importance of loving others through God's eyes and focusing on your relationship with God and your covenants, rather than being quick to judge others.

    50 min
  • Involving the Lord in Every Decision We Make; Grace Evans

    In this episode, Grace shares her story of being raised in LA with both parents serving in the LAPD. She opens up about her personal struggles as a young teen and offers counsel to those facing similar challenges. Grace discusses how she learned to involve the Lord in her decision-making and how His guidance helped her through difficult times. She reflects on her mission experience in Washington, D.C., the people she came to love, and the life-changing moments she had while serving. Throughout the episode, Grace encourages us to never judge others and to rely on the Lord for strength.

    52 min
  • Trusting in God's Plan; Mason Patene

    In this episode, Mason shares his personal experiences of returning home early from his mission and how he came to understand that each of us has a unique plan designed by God. He opens up about how he stayed close to the Savior and navigated the challenge of avoiding judgment from others. Mason also offers tips and advice on how we can show love and support to those who return home early from their missions.


    44 min

About Rise & Thrive

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Rise & Thrive, every week we dive into heart-to-heart conversations with return missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We will dive into the personal…