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

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 - Janie’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