In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of former missionaries who have navigated the often challenging transition from post-mission life back to the real world. These stories reveal vulnerability, growth, and the profound ways faith and experience shape their next chapters, offering valuable lessons and encouragement for others walking similar paths.

Key Topics:

• The personal journey from corporate career to mental health counseling
• The power of listening to the Spirit in making life decisions
• How late-life education and career changes can be rediscovered at any age
• Lessons learned from handling mental health challenges during and after service
• The importance of empathy, understanding, and love in leadership and service
• Navigating feelings of inadequacy and finding confidence in new pursuits
• How experiences and spiritual guidance influence major life shifts
• The significance of chapters and transitions in personal growth
• Practical advice for those prompted to change directions

Timestamps:

00:00 - Rewind to understand how career struggles and personal challenges sparked a new calling
02:22 - Returning to school in late 50s: overcoming feelings of inadequacy and awkwardness
03:44 - The power of vulnerability and authentic connection in therapy practice
04:42 - Sacred moments that affirm life-changing career pivots
05:14 - The importance of understanding empathy and walking in others' shoes
06:12 - Transitioning from mental health practice to full-time mission leadership
07:25 - Culturally adapting and empathizing with diverse missionaries
08:02 - Common mental health challenges faced by missionaries in Hawaii
09:15 - How clinical training enriched leadership and pastoral care
10:14 - Walking away from a PhD program: trusting spiritual promptings over plans
11:01 - Recognizing the need to pause and re-evaluate life pursuits
11:51 - The power of prayer, divine guidance, and the Spirit’s promptings
12:20 - Confidence in changing paths after listening to divine guidance
14:07 - The value of understanding the Spirit’s language in decision-making
14:54 - Developing deeper love through understanding others’ journeys
15:47 - The instant love for missionaries and the importance of knowing their stories
16:28 - The ultimate hope for the podcast: helping others feel they are not alone
17:33 - The influence of stories in inspiring, teaching, and motivating change
18:22 - Viewing life as chapters; embracing change and growth
19:01 - Moving forward through challenges, trusting the Spirit, and starting new chapters
19:41 - Gratitude and excitement for the upcoming journey of sharing stories

Resources & Links:

• Preach My Gospel
• Gospel Library App

Additional Notes:

This episode highlights that our "chapters" are ongoing and ever-evolving. Whether it's a career change later in life, navigating mental health during missions, or reassessing our life direction, embracing change with faith and divine guidance can lead to profound personal growth and purpose.