Temple Bound

In an age of global challenges and immense human suffering, it's a fair question to ask: "Why is the Church spending so much money on temples?" On this episode of Temple Bound, Will Humphreys and his guest Bryce Bender—co-host of the Companionship Study Podcast—provide a powerful and inspired answer.

Drawing from the teachings of President Russell M. Nelson and other Church leaders, they explain why the building of temples is the ultimate act of preparing a people for the Savior’s return. Bryce, who served in Bolivia, offers a personal and moving perspective on how a new temple can transform a community. He backs up his spiritual insights with a unique, number-based approach to show the incredible scale of the Lord’s "hastening work."

Takeaways:

• A Humanitarian Effort: Will and Bryce discuss how temples are a form of humanitarian work that changes hearts and prepares a people for the Second Coming.
• The Math of the Hastening: Bryce, an engineer, breaks down the numbers to show that the announced temples will require 132,000 new temple ordinance workers, a force larger than the current missionary corps.
• Becoming "Lightning Bugs": A beautiful metaphor of leaving the temple filled with light and becoming a beacon in a darkening world.
• Holding to the Iron Rod: The temple is the most powerful tool for helping us hold fast to the iron rod (the word of God).
• Christ is the Main Character: Bryce shares how a personal revelation in the temple taught him to see Christ's creative power as a tool for transforming his own life.

This conversation addresses common criticisms and reveals a deeper truth: the power gained through temple worship is the very thing that enables us to serve and lift others. Discover how each new temple is a call to rise up and shine your light, and hear a beautiful personal story about how the creation ordinance of the temple can be a template for personal transformation.

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In this thought-provoking episode of Temple Bound, we dive into the controversial truths behind commonly given marriage advice, especially for those sealed in the temple. Monica Tanner, author of Bad Marriage Advice, joins us to challenge traditional perspectives that can unintentionally harm marriages rather than help them.

Monica shares her unique journey from being raised Jewish to converting to the LDS Church and how her 23 years of marriage and decades of coaching have shaped her insights. She reveals why some widely accepted counsel, like "divorce is not an option" or "never go to bed angry," can be damaging when taken as absolute truths.

Learn why agency and choice are essential in marriage, how to recognize and navigate emotional abuse even within a temple-sealed relationship, and why taking pauses during conflict can be a powerful tool for growth. Monica also reflects on her personal motivation for writing this book: a heartfelt letter to her young son as he prepares for marriage.

Whether you’re newlywed, preparing for the temple, or a seasoned spouse, this episode encourages you to rethink rigid marriage advice and embrace a healthier, more honest approach to creating lasting love.

Tune in for:

• Real talk about the myth that “divorce is not an option”
• The importance of choice and accountability in marriage
• Why sometimes "going to bed angry" might be okay
• Practical tips for emotional health and conflict resolution
• Breaking free from harmful cultural expectations around temple marriage

Get ready to expand your horizons and strengthen your most sacred relationship.

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What’s the oil in your lamp made of? Will and Heather close this 3-part series with the Brother of Jared’s glowing stones, personal stories of faith, and powerful insights into the parable of the ten virgins. This is a heartfelt guide to preparing for Christ’s return—with confidence, trust, and intentional shine.

Key Takeaways:

• True readiness for Christ's return is built on a deep, personal relationship with Him, symbolized by the "oil" in our lamps.
• Trials are often the "presses" that help us gain this essential spiritual oil.
• We can foster our children's relationship with the Savior by encouraging them to turn to Him in their challenges.
• The companionship of the Holy Ghost is priceless, providing confidence and guidance.
• No matter the challenge, "the best is yet to come," and God will always provide "another ram in the thicket."

Scriptures & Quotes Mentioned:

• Daniel 2:44-45 (Stone cut without hands)
• Doctrine and Covenants 65:2-3
• Matthew 25 (Parable of the Ten Virgins)
• President Russell M. Nelson 
• Elder Kevin W. Pearson 

Connect With Us:

• What does your "oil" look like? How are you intentionally building your relationship with the Savior?
• Thank you for joining us on this journey with Temple Bound! Please subscribe and leave a review.

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Join us on Temple Bound as we hear the incredibly powerful story of Elder Jayden Laursen, a service missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jayden shares his remarkable journey from being an "anti-church" teenager involved with a "rough crowd" to becoming a passionate advocate for the gospel and a dedicated temple worker.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Jayden's Dramatic Conversion: Learn how unexpected encounters and the quiet influence of conference talks led him back to the Church after years of opposition, culminating in a powerful spiritual experience in seminary.
• A Family's Return: Hear the tender story of how Jayden's renewed faith inspired his entire family—his mom, siblings, and even his once-skeptical dad—to return to activity in the Church.
• The Temple as an "Iron Rod": Jayden vividly describes how the temple became his steadfast anchor amidst life's challenges, providing clarity and strength. He recounts a profound experience in the baptistry that solidified his testimony of temple work.
• The Unseen Bravery of Service Missions: Elder Laursen, a member of the Service Mission Communications Council, sheds light on the unique challenges and profound blessings of serving a mission from home. He bravely discusses the "three-way front" service missionaries often face and how they stand firm despite cultural stigmas.
• Tender Mercies in the House of the Lord: Jayden shares deeply personal experiences of receiving revelation and witnessing miracles while serving in the temple, highlighting its role as a place where "not one name will be lost."
• A Message to Future Generations: In a touching moment, Jayden reveals his ultimate motivation for his mission and service: a profound desire to be better for his future children and grandchildren, emphasizing that "the world has nothing to offer you."

This episode is a testament to the Savior's power to reclaim, heal, and use individuals in extraordinary ways. Elder Laursen's sincere and courageous account will inspire anyone seeking to strengthen their faith, overcome adversity, and understand the profound impact of temple service.

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Have you ever wondered if your relationship with God could be more profound, more personal, more bound? In this transformative episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys sits down with the insightful Natalie Burton to unravel the depths of President Russell M. Nelson's pivotal October 2022 Liahona message on the Everlasting Covenant.

This isn't just another discussion about covenants; it's a spiritual compass for anyone seeking to understand their divine connection. Natalie, a beloved teacher and passionate advocate for Christ-centered living, shares her profound insights on:

• The Power of Being "Bound Together": Discover why the temple is central to a covenant relationship that goes far beyond what you might traditionally think.
• Unpacking Hasid: God's Loyal Love: Explore the powerful Hebrew term President Nelson highlights – a unique concept describing the special, loyal, and intimate love God has for those in covenant with Him.
• More Than Just Marriage: Understand how President Nelson expands our view of the Everlasting Covenant to encompass every facet of our relationship with God and our role as covenant Israel.
• Accessing Divine Power: Learn how making and keeping sacred covenants grants us access to the power of Christ, making us "sin-resistant souls."

Tune in to experience a conversation that truly walks the covenant path. Don't forget to read President Nelson's article yourself – you'll find a link below!

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2022/10/04-the-everlasting-covenant?lang=eng

Connect with Natalie Burton: 

• FB: nataliexburton
• IG: adventures.of.natalieb

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The journey doesn’t end at the top. In this episode, Will and Heather unpack what it means to descend the mountain with power, peace, and purpose. From the Good Samaritan to the Mount of Transfiguration, this is about becoming a light for others… and learning to shine when the world gets dark.

Key Takeaways:

• Spiritual growth doesn't end at the temple doors; it's about bringing the temple's power into our lives.
• We descend to serve, heal, and share the light of Christ with those around us.
• Our transformation ("the shine") makes us agents of light and healing in the world.
• God provides "glowing miracles" to guide us through life's storms, even when the journey is hard.

Scriptures & Quotes Mentioned:

• Luke 10 (The Good Samaritan)
• Matthew 17 (The Mount of Transfiguration)
• Ether 6:3-6 (Brother of Jared's glowing stones)
• Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:16 - "let your light so shine")

Connect With Us:

• How do you bring the "shine" of your spiritual experiences into your daily life?
• Share this episode with a friend who might need to "Come Down Glowing"!

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Why does the Lord ask us to ascend? In this deeply personal episode, Will and Heather explore the symbolism of mountains and temples through the stories of Moses and Abraham, showing how preparation and trust are key to receiving revelation. It’s a conversation for your children, your grandchildren… and anyone ready to climb.

Key Takeaways:

• Temples are modern-day mountains where we ascend to meet the Lord.
• Preparation, trust, and overcoming opposition are vital steps in our spiritual climb.
• The journey of ascent itself transforms us, strengthening our spiritual "legs."
• God's ultimate purpose in calling us to higher places is to help us become more like Him.

Scriptures & Quotes Mentioned:

• Exodus 19 (Moses on Mount Sinai)
• Genesis 22 (Abraham and Isaac)
• Elder Jeffrey R. Holland 
• Elder Jack H. Goslin & Elder Rulon G. Jackson
• 1 Nephi 21:9 (Isaiah 49)

Connect With Us:

• What does "climbing the mountain" mean in your life? Share your thoughts!
• Subscribe to Temple Bound for more insights into temple worship and personal revelation.

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What if our kids knew Christ, not just as a Redeemer or Master, but as a true friend?

In this powerful episode of Temple Bound, Will Humphreys sits down with returning guest Kara Smith to talk about something most of us never hear much about: how to develop a personal friendship with Jesus Christ.

It started with a simple realization, there aren’t many talks, lessons, or resources that explore this side of the Savior. So Will and Kara decided to dig into what it means, not just for youth, but for parents, to model that relationship.

Together, they explore how the temple can become a place where youth stop “checking in” with Christ and start walking with Him.

Key Topics in This Episode:

• Friendship with Christ is Real, But Rarely Taught

Will and Kara discuss how “friend” is one of Christ’s names, yet rarely emphasized. They share why this specific connection matters deeply for the rising generation.

• Kids Are Hurting, Even When They Look Fine

Even the strongest, happiest-looking kids often feel isolated. Social media, peer pressure, and self-doubt create silent struggles that too many face alone.

• The Temple Is a Place of Belonging

Kara shares how her son, Drew, had a personal experience of feeling seen in the temple, and how mindset and intention shape the way youth connect with Christ there.

• Parenting with Boundaries & Self-Respect

Setting limits isn’t about control, it’s about modeling how to treat others and yourself. Kara explains how emotional safety in the home leads to spiritual growth.

• Authenticity Over Perfection

Real spiritual impact comes from being honest with your kids, not just teaching doctrine, but letting them see how you wrestle, grow, and lean on Christ.

• Teaching Them to Trust Their Divine Identity

Kara talks about how trusting in the Savior helps her kids trust themselves. That trust becomes the foundation for facing life with courage and confidence.

• The Latter-Day Advantage

These are hard times, but they’re also sacred times. Will reframes the pressure of the world as a divine opportunity, our youth are meant for this moment.

If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who needs it, another parent, a youth leader, or a friend walking the same path.

Subscribe to Temple Bound for more conversations that bring Christ closer to the everyday lives of Latter-day Saints.

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Feeling like you don't fit in, like everyone else got the "joy memo" but you? In this deeply personal episode of Temple Bound, we tackle the very real struggles of loneliness, social anxiety, and mental health challenges facing youth today.

Drawing from a powerful message shared with a group of young people, your host shares a personal, embarrassing story about "tight pants" and how feeling like an outcast actually pointed to a deeper truth: our divine strength.

We explore how despite the rising tide of social poverty, as predicted by prophets, there is profound hope and a way forward through Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. You'll hear insightful statistics on mental health, powerful scriptures, and heartfelt truths about your inherent worth.

This episode emphasizes how regular church attendance, the presence of caring adults, and engaging in community service can significantly reduce risks associated with mental health struggles. Most importantly, we dive into how focusing on the Savior, discerning the voices in your head, being a true friend, serving others, and especially the temple can change everything.

Learn why you matter not because of your choices, but because you are a beloved child of God. 

Key Takeaways:

• You are not alone in feeling alone or like you don't fit in. Many, including your host, have felt this way.
• Your struggles can point to your divine strength. The challenges you face prepare you for greater blessings.
• "Social poverty" is a real plague predicted by prophets. Statistics on youth mental health, social media's impact, and suicide rates highlight the urgency.
• The answer is always Jesus Christ. Focusing on Him through scripture study, church attendance, seminary, and pro-gospel actions brings joy.
• You matter because you exist; your worth is infinite. It has nothing to do with your choices or actions.
• Discern the voices in your head. Positive, pro-survival thoughts come from the Holy Ghost; negative, judgmental ones come from the adversary. Learn to call out and dismiss negative influences.
• Be a "Matt Floyd." Find friendship by being a friend, especially to those who need it most.
• Serve others and show gratitude. These actions foster health and well-being.
• The Temple is a sacred refuge. Its influence offers reprieve from the adversary and confirms your divine purpose.

Join us as we testify that Jesus Christ sees you, loves you, and that you've got this.

What other show ideas or questions do you have in your heart that we can help answer? Share them in the comments or over on Instagram!

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Join us for an incredibly powerful episode of TempleBound with the remarkable Brenda Angle. Featured in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Newsroom article, "Tanzanian Saints Visit Nairobi Kenya Temple Open House: The Impossible Journey," Brenda shares her awe-inspiring story.

What started as a simple idea to bring 25-50 people from Tanzania to the Nairobi Kenya Temple open house for their first temple experience quickly snowballed into a miraculous undertaking. Hear how Brenda, driven by a deep love for the people of Africa, organized transportation, accommodation, and even passports for hundreds, overcoming immense logistical and financial challenges.

In this episode, Brenda recounts:

• Her personal calling to serve in Africa, leading to 15 trips over seven years.
• The unwavering faith of the Tanzanian Saints, who made extraordinary sacrifices to attend.
• The miraculous provisions of funds, food, and solutions that appeared when needed most.
• The beautiful chaos of getting over 500 people, including 98 orphans, to the temple.
• The profound impact of the temple experience on individuals who had never left their villages.
• Inspiring stories, including that of Molly, a former street child who became a wealthy man and adopted 35,000 children, and his profound experience in the temple.

This episode is a testament to the power of faith, the adversary's opposition to sacred work, and the boundless love of God for His children. It will ignite your soul and deepen your appreciation for temples.

Special Challenge: In this episode, we issue a "Go as if you've never been before" temple challenge. Listen in to find out more!

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