Called to Create: An LDSPMA Podcast

Guest host Jenna Carson, a chaplain and captain in the U.S. Air Force, interviews filmmaker and comedian Mallory Everton. Best known for her work on BYUtv's Studio C and JK Studios' Freelancers, Mallory shares her journey from nursing aspirant to established artist. The conversation focuses on  her creative process, the importance of comedy in dark times, and how she navigates the challenges of a patchwork career as an artist. Mallory offers insights into maintaining a joyful and authentic approach to creativity, driven by curiosity and a deep relationship with God.Tune in for an inspiring discussion about art, resilience, and the pursuit of one's calling.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:11 Mallory Everton's Background and Current Life03:37 Creative Process and Inspirations05:49 Challenges and Overcoming Creative Blocks11:51 Navigating the Uncertainty of an Artistic Career18:18 Relationship with God and Spiritual Insights21:49 Advice for Aspiring Creatives25:42 Mallory's Early Creative Influences28:16 College Plans and Career Shift32:48 Joining and Growing Studio C38:30 The Impact and Value of Comedy47:07 Mallory's Future Projects and Social Media

Assistant Producer Cassidy Beck interviews MD House, the current president of Latter-day Saints in Publishing, Media, and the Arts (LDSPMA). They discuss Michael's transition from a successful career in corporate finance to becoming a passionate writer. Michael shares his experiences with LDSPMA, detailing its volunteer-driven community, mentoring programs, and conferences. The conversation also covers Michael's unexpected journey into writing historical biblical fiction, his inspiration behind his books, and the importance of uniting creatives with faith-centered purposes. Learn how MD House balances his professional career with his creative passions and discover more about the upcoming Christian Creatives Expo in Orlando. Don't miss this inspiring episode full of valuable insights for storytellers, artists, and creatives of all kinds.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:36 MD House's Background and Career01:26 Discovering LDSPMA02:15 Volunteering and Mentorship Program02:54 Becoming LDSPMA President03:47 Personal Experiences with LDSPMA07:36 Christian Creatives Expo Teaser09:58 Conference Highlights and Keynote Speakers16:30 Future Plans and Membership Program17:53 The Importance of Finding Your People18:29 Conference Highlights and Networking21:14 New Partnerships and Film Festival22:30 Transitioning from Business to Writing23:21 Writing Journey and Inspirations26:36 Exploring Historical Fiction32:15 Podcast and Community Engagement34:02 Final Words on Finding Your People

Join guest host CJ Madson, adjunct faculty at BYU School of Music, as he interviews his younger brother, Jeremy Madson, a talented author and graduate in biblical Hebrew. Discover Jeremy's journey from childhood sibling rivalry to writing his first epic fantasy novel, 'The Pyromancer Scroll.' Learn how faith, family support, and financial stewardship have played crucial roles in their creative endeavors. This episode is filled with valuable advice for aspiring creators and heartwarming family anecdotes. Tune in to be inspired by their experiences and insights.00:00 Introduction and Host Background00:45 Introducing the Guest: Jeremy Madson04:44 Jeremy's Journey to Becoming an Author08:39 Balancing Faith and Finances19:37 Building an Audience and Marketing Strategies23:59 Encouraging Creativity in Children28:00 Final Tips for Aspiring Creators30:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

In this episode of Called to Create, guest host Heidi Tucker, a speaker and author of five award-winning books, interviews the renowned storyteller, traveler, and teacher Glenn Rawson. Known for inspirational tales broadcasted on over 50 radio stations and authoring over 30 books, Glenn shares his journey from a cowboy in Idaho to a beloved storyteller. They discuss his unique experiences, motivations, and approach to storytelling that entertains, inspires, and teaches valuable principles. Glenn also talks about connecting history and personal stories with geographic places, making history come alive for his audience. Join us as we delve into Glenn's mission to bring others closer to the Savior through his inspiring tales.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:51 Glenn Rawson's Background and Achievements02:36 The Influence of Cowboy Life on Storytelling04:10 The Calling to Create and Teach05:51 The Power of Storytelling09:06 Connecting History with Places12:15 Maintaining Motivation and Inspiration15:12 The Role of the Spirit in Guiding Tours19:19 Common Themes and Mentors22:59 Future Projects and Final Thoughts25:59 Conclusion and Farewell

Join host Scott Christopher as he interviews Joel McCausland and Kevin Peay, the dynamic duo behind Afterglow, a staple in the LDS and faith-based music community. Discover how these lifelong friends from Utah Valley transitioned from high school harmonies to producing inspirational music that has touched thousands. The episode delves into their creative processes, their balance between music and other careers, memorable performances, and the story behind their iconic songs like 'I Heard Him Come' and 'The Greatest Gift.' Also, get an inside look at their journey through their recent digital distribution and podcasting efforts. Celebrate with Scott, Joel, and Kevin as they reflect on their musical journey and its impact over the past four decades.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:22 Early Beginnings and Friendship03:43 High School Memories and Musical Discoveries06:57 First Performances and Musical Influences14:42 Collaborative Process and Recording18:24 Transition to Professional Music22:29 A Generous Donation23:04 Recording and Distribution Challenges24:24 Balancing Performances and Personal Life25:51 Country Music Phase28:07 Songwriting Process30:55 Iconic Songs and Their Impact37:14 Navigating Careers and Music43:12 Reflecting on Legacy and Influence49:32 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Join guest host Adassa, a renowned singer and actress, as she interviews professional oil painter and American Ninja Warrior athlete Jenedy Page. They discuss Jenedy's journey from a novice artist to showcasing her paintings in national galleries, all while balancing motherhood and training for Ninja Warrior competitions. Jenedy reveals how divine guidance, mentorship, and perseverance helped her overcome personal and professional challenges. The episode covers Jenedy's unique painting techniques, her emotional connection to her late son, and her exciting upcoming event, the Strong Woman Experience. Tune in for inspiring stories of resilience, faith, and creativity.00:00 Introduction and Host's Background00:53 Introducing Jenedy Paige02:05 Jenedy's Artistic Journey03:14 The Sparrow Painting and Divine Timing05:02 Mentorship and Artistic Process08:07 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Trusting God's Plan16:41 The Role of Mentors in Jenedy's Growth23:10 A Mentor's Legacy23:59 From Artist to Ninja24:18 The American Ninja Warrior Journey25:02 Training and Challenges26:33 Faith and Determination32:01 Balancing Family and Ambitions35:12 A Heartfelt Tribute42:03 Looking Ahead43:38 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this captivating episode, Guest Host Jenna Carson, a chaplain and captain in the U.S. Air Force, interviews McKay Coppins, a renowned staff writer at The Atlantic. McKay shares his experiences at The Atlantic, insights from his acclaimed articles and books, and the challenges and rewards of balancing skepticism and cynicism in political journalism. They also discuss the importance of diverse perspectives in media and offer valuable advice for aspiring writers and journalists.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:42 McKay Coppins' Career and Inspirations01:58 Working at The Atlantic05:33 Balancing Faith and Journalism12:17 Navigating Cynicism in Politics20:26 Writing Process and Daily Routine27:05 Spirituality and Creative Work32:37 Encouragement for Aspiring Creators35:31 Conclusion and Farewell#LDSPMA #Inspirtiation #CalledtoCreate #McKayCoppins #JennaCarson #Chaplain #Journalist 

Elspeth has been a full-time Artist of Al Young Studios since 2002. Her paintings seek to celebrate lesser-known heroines and heroes of everyday life whose courage and devotion evince the deepest reverence for Deity. Each painting is intended to invite others to look Heavenward in order to solve life's challenges, and appreciate the majesty of the individual in all races and cultures.Her training includes a lifetime of study and collaboration in the family studio of her father, Al R. Young, as well as a baccalaureate degree in Visual Art from Brigham Young University, from which she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2003.Working primarily in oils, her original artworks and reproductions are permanently displayed in temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, museums, and private residences. Reproductions of her work also appear in numerous books and publications.Website: alyoung.comFacebook: facebook.com/aystudiosFacebook: facebook.com/elspethyoung

Jennifer Jenkins is the author of seven published novels and one non-fiction guide to creative writing. Her work has been optioned for film/tv and she is a two-time Whitney Finalist. She serves as the Founder/CEO of Operation Literacy, a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to promoting children's literacy, and has taught in the Silicon Slopes Lecture Series and at universities across the country on the subjects of creative writing, leadership, career readiness, networking, and leveraging story to connect with stakeholders.She received the Honors in Education award from Utah First Lady Abby Cox in 2024 and dedicates her time to building programs that support young creative writers, inspire reluctant readers, and provide impactful educational opportunities to underserved populations. All her efforts are fueled by the belief that literacy unlocks a successful future for every child.https://www.storycon.orgauthorjenniferjenkins.cominstagram.com/authorjenniferjenkinsfacebook.com/authorjenniferjenkinsx.com/authorjenkins

Connie Sokol is a national speaker, bestselling author, media personality, and mother of seven. She is a regular contributor on the top-rated lifestyle show Studio 5 with Brooke Walker (www.ksl.com/studio5).In addition to her own podcast, Purpose Filled Life, for the past three years Connie has interviewed 75 guests as host of Called to Create: An LDSPMA Podcast for nonprofit Latter-day Saints in Publishing, Media, and the Arts.Connie is a bestselling author who has written 17 books, including What Now?, 8 Ways to Deal with Life's Difficulties, Faithful Fit & Fabulous, and 40 Days with the Savior.She is the founder of the Balance reDefined programs, teaching women to live purposeful, organized, and joyful lives. Connie marinates in time spent with her family and eating decadent treats.conniesokol.cominstagram.com/connie_sokolfacebook.com/conniesokolauthorlinkedin.com/in/conniesokol

Brigham Taylor worked as an executive with the Walt Disney Company. He produced Disney's 2016 The Jungle Book, 2015 Tomorrowland, and the Pirates of the Caribbean series. He was a production executive for Million Dollar Arm (2014), Tron: Legacy (2010), Secretariat (2010), Bridge to Terabithia (2007), and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005), to name a few.Taylor was born in 1967 in Palo Alto, California. He earned his bachelor's degree in humanities from Brigham Young University. After graduating, he joined the Disney company in 1994 as an assistant to a junior executive and rose through the ranks of the studio.He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served as a full-time missionary in Tallahassee, Florida. He and his wife, Michelle, are the parents of four children. He has recently started a new development-finance/production company with a focus on elevated, thriller feature films.Website: www.intension.filmInstagram: instagram.com/btaylor67IMDb: imdb.com/name/nm1761420

Brandon Pak is a singer, songwriter, Deseret book recording artist, and a graduate of Boston's Berkeley College of Music. He's had the opportunity to perform with and for artists such as Andy Grammer, Charlie Puth, Justin Timberlake, Pentatonix, the Truman Brothers, the Bonner family, and featured in movies and soundtracks like Daddy's Home 2. He lives in Roosevelt, Utah with his beautiful wife, Katie, and his 17 month old baby girl. Whether it's writing first dance songs for weddings or writing worship music, he loves helping people connect through music and connect with Christ.IG @brandonpakmusic instagram.com/brandonpakmusicYT  Brandon Pak - Topic youtube.com/channel/UC8pOJefZ_ypkwGc87e4sRhw

Rebecca is a Utah All-Star!  Born in San Diego, but a Utahan at heart after falling in love with the mountains, rivers, and the kind people who make it feel like home. During the day she hosts FM100.3's Midday Show playing music for your workday from 11 am-3 pm. When she isn't hanging out at the station you will find her out and about improving the local and international communities. Fluent in Spanish, Rebecca frequently travels to South America as a mentor with Eagle Condor, a group that performs humanitarian missions. Rebecca is an inspiring breast cancer survivor and advocate. She has been a leading change in our “Think Pink” campaign every fall. Most weekends you will recognize her voice as she hosts and cheers on the famous University of Utah's Red Rock Gymnastics. As an Emmy-nominated TV Host, BYU graduate, mother of three, and host of FM 100.3's community feature “Utah Weekly Forum” she inspires listeners of all ages. We are proud to have her as a part of the FM100.3 family.https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaonFM100.3https://www.instagram.com/rebeccafm1003

Eva Witesman is a professor at the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University, where she teaches in the Master of Public Administration and Master of Business Administration programs and serves as Academic Director of the Ballard Center for Social Impact. She teaches leaders how to use organizations and institutions to elevate human potential and solve social problems. As a scholar at a religious university and an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she also spends some of her professional time engaging in devotional work. She regularly provides lectures and workshops on a variety of topics, from the professional to the spiritual. She has also served as a consultant for hundreds of organizations seeking to improve their core strategy, impact evaluation, and mission fulfillment.https://www.instagram.com/evawitesmanhttps://www.facebook.com/witesmanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-witesman-94a75312

Jennefer Johnson is a program administrator of Brigham Young University's Continuing Education Events, and oversees BYU Women's Conference, where she has been gathering women for over 28 years. Jen is from Salt Lake and St. George, Utah. She is the mother of three and grandmother of four. And her claim to fame is being the older sister of popular Latter-day Saint podcaster and teacher Hank Smith.https://www.instagram.com/jennefer161https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennefer-johnson-612b4516https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=17830802

Kathy Fincher creates meaningful artwork that moves the soul. She is renowned for her Norman Rockwell style paintings of children. Classically trained, her attention to details and lighting have earned her many international awards.  Fincher's painting, The Dream Keepers, was presented to the president in the Oval Office and later inducted into the permanent collection of the G.B. Bush Presidential Library.  For the city of Duluth, Georgia, Fincher designed The Dream Keepers 911 Memorial, featuring seven children using their handprints to restore the American flag, encased in glass and aged brick.  Her greatest work to date is the monumental bronze of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. where she captures his premonition of death with his eyes longing for heaven. 

Lisa Valentine Clark was part of the sketch comedy/improv troupe The Garrens, and co-founded the theater-as-improv troupe The Thrillionaires which performs original, improvised plays and musicals in a variety of genres. She has been featured in a variety of commercials, including the “real mom” in the viral videos for Chatbooks. Lisa works as a freelance writer for commercials, webseries, and scripts. She wrote the book, Real Moms Making It Up As We Go, hosted the feel-good service show “Random Acts,” and headlined the musical improv tv show Show Offs, for three seasons on BYUtv. She has starred in movies like Stalking Santa, and was a script consultant, producer, and starred as “Carrie Carrington” in the film Once I Was a Beehive and Once I Was Engaged. She currently hosts the weekly podcast The Lisa Show on BYUradio.www.thelisashowpodcast.comhttps://www.facebook.com/TheLisaShowhttp://www.thelisashowpodcast.comhttps://www.instagram.com/yourfunnyvalentine

Ben Lomu is a religious educator for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and teaches Seminary and Institute.Lomu is also an actor and host of BYUtv's “Come Follow Up”. He has appeared in a number of productions for the Church, including the Book of Mormon videos as King Lamoni.He has appeared in Cinderella in the Caribbean, Lights, Camera, Romance, The Outpost, Singing with Angels, and Being Charlie.He was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised in Mesa, Arizona. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Utah studying sociology and criminology and holds a master's degree from the University of Phoenix in education.https://www.byutv.org/come-follow-uphttps://www.instagram.com/comefollowmehttps://www.youtube.com/@ComeFollowUphttps://www.facebook.com/comefollowuphttps://www.instagram.com/ben_lomu

Chaplain Dawn Dimick is the first woman to study military chaplaincy in BYU's graduate program. Her journey began when she enlisted in the Army Reserve in 2013 on a prayer, and in need of money for school. She later received undergraduate degrees from Utah State University in International Studies and Religious Studies, with minors in Russian and Military Science. She went on to receive a Master's Degree in Chaplaincy from Brigham Young University, and now happily serves the Soldiers of 6-17 Aviation Combat Support Unit in Fort Carson, CO.Chaplain Jenna Carson is the first female military chaplain endorsed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.She is a chaplain and officer in the United States Air Force and currently serves as chaplain at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi where she provides spiritual care for  Airmen, Guardians, Marines, and Sailors. She earned a BA from Brigham Young University and a Master of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School.Chaplain Dawn Dimickhttps://www.deseret.com/utah/2022/4/2/22991301/first-woman-student-military-chaplain-brigham-young-university-faith-religion-lds-church-missionChaplain Jenna Carsonhttps://www.thechurchnews.com/23283247/chaplain-latter-day-saint-military-air-force-jeremy-jaggi-jenna-carson-byu-harvard/38.9.7 Latter-day Saint Chaplains, Church Handbook  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/general-handbook/38-church-policies-and-guidelines?lang=eng#p753

Wendy Osborne is the Founder and Executive Director of Tabitha's Way Local Food Pantry, a non-profit organization based in Utah. Wendy was called to serve her community and switched from a career in telecommunications to start Tabitha's Way in 2010. Over the past 14 years, this organization has grown from a small food pantry to include three locations across Utah County that served over 150 thousand food-insecure individuals in 2024. Wendy's compassion, positivity, and vision have been key drivers to Tabitha's Way's success as she provides constant support and innovates new ways to help those in need.Website: https://tabithasway.org/about-us/about-us-south-pantry/https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-osborne-54b746150/https://www.instagram.com/p/C3iWMGeihao/

Clint strongly believes that a single moment in time can change a person's life. He has traveled the world speaking to a wide spectrum of diverse audiences, challenging them to dream, excel, connect, and believe--both in themselves and in the power of others. His mantra? “It's not about being the best in the world…it's about being the best FOR the world.”Known as the leading authority on employee retention, Clint helps organizationsretain, engage, and inspire their team members from the front desk to the board rooms and everyone in between. He expertly helps audiences navigate generational complexities, communication challenges, leadership missteps, and culture cues.A self-motivated entrepreneur, he is well versed in business start-up, leadership, sales management, management training, and helping teams grow multi-million-dollar accounts. He uses that experience to create teachable relationship and business strategies based on trust, service, support, connection, and consistent follow-through.https://www.linkedin.com/in/clintpulver/https://www.instagram.com/clintpulverhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpWB8oLO5HOjstE9gmL9Qxghttps://www.facebook.com/clintpulverspeaks/

Sam Payne is a national and international musician and storyteller. He hosts The Apple Seed podcast that features stories for families. He was part of the Peabody-nominated team that created Treasure Island 2020, the serial podcast based on Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel. As a live performer, Sam has brought his stories and songs to Canada, Bulgaria, Tokyo, and from coast to coast in the United States, including performances at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in the nation's capital, the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee, and the Timpanogos Storytelling festival in Lehi, Utah.Sam serves as the Weber State University Storytelling Fellow, and has written books and stage pieces, including Sanctuary: The Story of Zion for the centennial of the National Parks Service, Echoes of Hammers and Spikes (With Suzanne Christensen) for the sesquicentennial of the completion of the first transcontinental railroad, and One of a Million Stars, commemorating the 14-year mission of the Mars rover Opportunity.https://www.sampayne.comhttps://www.youtube.com/user/savoylivehttps://www.facebook.com/p/Sam-Payne-100063648694280https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-payne-82134a44

Alexis and Chanté are sisters and best friends. They grew up in Utah and raised both of their families there. Together they have seven children and two hunky husbands. They love building bridges and connecting communities. As sisters they are intentionally teaching about race, diversity and human connection in their homes! They are motivational speakers, advocates, mothers, and educators. https://www.instagram.com/letstalk_sishttps://www.facebook.com/p/Lets-Talk-Sis-100064131965479

Brandon Mull is the #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Fablehaven, Dragonwatch, Beyonders, and Five Kingdoms series. A kinetic thinker, Brandon enjoys bouncy balls, squeezable stress toys, and popping bubble wrap. He lives in Utah in a happy little valley near the mouth of a canyon with his wife, Erlyn, their eleven children, and three mischievous cats. Brandon loves meeting his readers and hearing about their experiences with his books.Brandon graduated from BYU in 2000 and served a two-year mission to Chile, Antofagasta for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.https://www.brandonmull.comhttps://www.facebook.com/authorbrandonmullhttps://www.instagram.com/writerbrandonhttps://www.twitter.com/brandonmull

For the Truman Brothers, music and faith are in their DNA. Raised in Nashville, Tennessee as sons of Latter-day Saint musician, Dan Truman (of the Grammy-winning group Diamond Rio), they spent their formative years in green rooms and tour buses as well as sacrament meetings and early-morning Seminary classes. Despite their musical upbringing, the brothers didn't really begin making music together until attending BYU, where they won the campus-wide Battle of the Bands two years in a row. Now as recording artists signed to Shadow Mountain Records, the Truman Brothers draw on their unique background to create Spirit-filled music not just for Sundays—but for every day of the week. With its energetic, pop-driven anthems, their debut album Quiet Revolution landed in the Top 10 on the iTunes Christian chart. Their songs have earned three Praiseworthy Awards presented by the LDSPMA, including “Best Original Religious Song” for their song “Oh Child". In addition to their work as a duo, the brothers are also longtime members of the Nashville Tribute Band.https://www.trumanbrothers.comhttps://www.instagram.com/trumanbrothershttps://www.tiktok.com/@thetrumanbrothershttps://www.facebook.com/trumanbrothershttps://www.youtube.com/user/trumanbrothers

Fiona Smith is British born with Jamaican roots and is a modern-day renaissance creator who focuses on projects that bring unique stories out of obscurity.Fiona was the TV host for “Road to Zion,” a documentary on early pioneers in Great Britain who immigrated to the United States. In England, she earned a Bachelor of Law Degree, and in America, graduated with a Master's Degree in Theatre and Media Arts from Brigham Young University. Her thesis focused on Black American pioneers and included her role as Jane Manning James in the “Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration” movie. As a singer, Fiona has a cameo in The Singles Ward movie, sang alto in The Tabernacle Choir, and created a band to perform her songs at the 2002 Olympics Salt Lake Downtown Festival in Utah. Fiona also enjoys communicating in British Sign Language and German.https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0808203https://mormonarts.lib.byu.edu/works/road-to-zion-3

Winning over live audiences has been Shupe's natural-born talent since childhood. A fifth-generation fiddler, he started performing with his siblings at age 10. He formed the RubberBand with the idea of drawing from a pool of musicians who could wander in and out. However, certain members seemed to stick, and the band soon became a cohesive unit. Ryan Shupe & the RubberBand, took the long-running Telluride Bluegrass Festival in Colorado by storm, winning the live band contest. This launched them into the national music scene. After becoming regional favorites, they signed a deal with Capitol Records, and cut an album in 2005 called "Dream Big." The title song became the theme song of Amy Grant's TV show, Three Wishes.Ryan Shupe's band plays americana, bluegrass, country, folk, rock. https://www.instagram.com/theryanshupe/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClv-fdBqOShy7t88ZtuQqIghttps://www.facebook.com/ryanshupemusic/

Shannon Foster is a wife, mother, and the founder of The Red Headed Hostess. She has a passion for helping children and adults understand and fall in love with the scriptures. After thirteen years of teaching seminary full-time for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Shannon had her first child and then focused her attention on helping parents teach in their home. She started a little blog called “The Red Headed Hostess,” a name her friends used to call her. The blog quickly grew and grew and now Shannon has written over 30 scripture study books and has a team of 16 dedicated creators.https://www.facebook.com/redheadedhostesshttps://www.instagram.com/redheadedhostesshttps://www.pinterest.com/rhhostesshttps://www.theredheadedhostess.com/fortify-podcast

Boyd Matheson is the host of KSL NewsRadio's Inside Sources, KSL-TV's Sunday Edition and a nationally recognized social and political commentator. Prior to joining KSL, he served as opinion editor for Deseret News, chief of staff in the United States Senate, president of a public policy think tank, and spent years as an international business strategist. Boyd and his wife Debbie have 5 children, 8 grandchildren and he is currently serving for a season as disciple-bishop of the Manila 9th Ward. https://www.linkedin.com/in/boydmatheson/https://muckrack.com/boyd-matheson/articleshttps://twitter.com/boydmatheson

In 2001, at the age of 27, Chad's life changed in an instant when a 2,000-pound bale of hay shattered his neck, leaving him a quadriplegic. But Chad's dreams were not paralyzed that day—he became an example of what is possible.Chad is a best-selling author, president of his own communications company, and recognized world-class wheelchair athlete. In 2003, he set a world record by wheeling his chair from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas (513 miles).Chad inspires, motivates, and moves audiences, creating an experience that touches hearts for a lifetime. He is one of the youngest ever to receive the Council of Peers Award for Excellence (CPAE) and to be inducted into the prestigious National Speaker Hall of Fame. https://www.instagram.com/chadlhymashttps://www.facebook.com/chadlhymashttps://twitter.com/chadlhymashttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chadhyma

Alice Faulkner Burch is general editor of “My Lord, He Calls Me: Stories of Faith by Black American Latter-day Saints.” She also serves on the Utah State Historical Records Advisory Board, is on the Signature Books Editorial Advisory Board, and is the Director of Special Events on the Executive Committee of Sema Hadithi African American Heritage & Culture Foundation, (Utah's only 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the researching, preserving, and teaching of Utah's Black American history founded by her husband). She enjoys writing, cross-stitching, and doing the dying art of whole-cloth quilting – a skill she learned on her own to honor her maternal Grandmother.Deseret Bookdeseretbook.com/product/P6001723.htmlAmazonamazon.com/My-Lord-He-Calls-Latter-day/dp/1639930299Sema Hadithi African American Heritage & Culture Foundationhttps://semahadithifoundation.org

Dr. Stacy Taniguchi is a motivational speaker and experiential education consultant. He is a retired university professor from BYU's Marriott School of Business and works as an outdoor wilderness guide, specializing in remote adventures in Alaska and international mountaineering. Dr. Taniguchi is also an expert witness for tort liability cases involving outdoor recreational risk management and product liability and an advocate for the "Choose to THRIVE" movement. He co-founded Beta Experiences which helps people on their journey to living a life of thriving. Dr. Taniguchi's BETA Experience websitehttps://www.betaexp.com[PDF] What 100 things do you want to do with your life?https://intermountainhealthcare.org/-/media/files/services/eap/etips/what-100-things-do-you-want-to-do-with-your-life.pdf?la=enLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stacytaniguchiFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/kahiltna.visions

Jeanette Bennett earned a bachelor's and master's degree in journalism from BYU and is the founder/editor of Utah Valley Magazine, BusinessQ Magazine, Utah Valley Bride and UtahValley360.com. She has also been a regular guest on HuffPostLive and has moderated gubernatorial debates and numerous business panels. Jeanette plays the piano and organ, but her feet did the talking when she took third place in “Dancing with the Community Stars.” Jeanette has a love/hate relationship with deadlines, half marathons and the stock market — and she has a love/love relationship with glossy pages, watching her kids play sports and enjoying Utah's canyons. Websitehttps://jeanettebennett.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/jeanettewbennettLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanettebennett

Jared and Marcie Austin are owner creators of Latter Day Kids! They have worked together for the last 4 years as a husband and wife team to deliver free weekly videos and lesson bundles that support gospel learning in the home.Jared earned a Bachelor's Degree in Art Education, and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. He is an art teacher by trade and worked as a public school teacher until he resigned in 2021 in order to focus on producing content for “Latter Day Kids.” Marcie spends her days homeschooling, loving on her children, and doing her best to fit creative endeavors in between it all. She does graphic design and photography work for Latter Day Kids, and is a freelance graphic designer. Jared and Marcie have been married for 17 years, and are the proud parents of 5 beautiful children who are the true inspiration behind Latter Day Kids and the talented voice actors behind all of the Latter Day Kids videos! Website https://www.latterdaykids.comInstagram  @latterdaykidshttps://www.instagram.com/latterdaykidsFacebook  Latter Day Kidshttps://www.facebook.com/latterdaykidsYouTube  @LatterDayKidshttps://www.youtube.com/@LatterDayKidsPinterest  @latterdaykidshttps://www.pinterest.com/latterdaykids

Summerisa is a graduate of Brigham Young University with a BFA in Music Dance Theatre and a Minor in Ballroom Dance. She and her husband moved to NYC and performed professionally as actors for seven years, working with many of the top directors and choreographers in the business. Summerisa was awarded Best Actress in a Musical by Broadway World for her portrayal of Doralee in the production 9 to 5.  While living in NYC, they also owned and operated their own performing arts training studio in Manhattan. In 2017, Summerisa helped found and currently works full-time as President of the nonprofit organization Harrington Center for the Arts located in American Fork. The nonprofit began with the vision of her father and local doctor, the late Dr. Carl Bell. Harrington Center for the Arts will renovate the historic Harrington School building to become a home for the arts in the local community as well as constructing a new Studio Theater. Website https://www.summerisa.comInstagram: @summerisa https://www.instagram.com/summerisaFacebook: summerisa.stevens https://www.facebook.com/summerisa.stevensYouTube: @summerisabellstevens7328 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCjGyKUeHd89ZEH8WdZRciw

Brooke Walker is the host and executive producer of KSL's “Studio 5 with Brooke Walker.” She is an Emmy award-winning journalist and a member of the KSL News Team, where she contributes as an anchor and reporter. Brooke is also the host and executive producer of “Family Rules” on BYUtv and BYU Radio. Brooke's most important and cherished titles are wife and mother. She and her husband are the proud parents of four children.Facebook www.facebook.com/BrookeWalkerKSLX (Twitter) www.twitter.com/BrookeWalkerKSLInstagram www.instagram.com/brookewalkerLinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-walker-12039a31

Reyna Aburto was born in Nicaragua and studied Industrial Engineering there. She holds a degree in Computer Science from Utah Valley University and has worked in the language industry for more than 30 years. Reyna and her husband own a translation business. She has served as Relief Society General Presidency Second Counselor and as a member of the Primary General Board for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She currently serves on the Correlation Committee in Church Headquarters. She is the author of Reaching for the Savior (Acudamos al Salvador, in Spanish), and co-host of the Consecrating Your Life podcast (@consecratingpod) with her daughter Elena. Deseret Book https://deseretbook.com/p/reaching-for-the-saviorInstagram: @consecratingpodFacebook: Consecrating Your Life Podcast

Bonnie Oscarson, a native of Utah, has lived in eight states and one foreign country. She and her husband served as Mission President and Companion in the Sweden Gothenburg Mission in the 1970s. Thirty years later they returned to Sweden as Temple President and Matron for the Stockholm temple.Bonnie wrote a book in 2015, What Makes Us Sisters, urging women to encourage and inspire others in ways that help them realize their great potential. She and Paul have seven children and 29 fascinating grandchildren. Bonnie served as the Young Women General President of the Church from 2013 until 2018. Deseret Book https://deseretbook.com/products?query=bonnie%20oscars

Tarsha Joyner's most cherished roles are that of wife, mother, grandmother, creator, and Latter-day Saint. She also owns and is head Treatmaker at Mrs. Joy's Absolutely Fabulous Treats. She created and built her business based on a project she worked on in her graphic design classes at University of Lynchburg.  At 41 years old, wanted to open a bakery but didn't know how to bake. But she was determined to learn and went on to become the winner of the Food Nework's Christmas Cookie Challenge in 2015. Tarsha wrote and illustrated A Quilt for Josie Joy for her senior thesis at University of Lynchburg in Virginia and has made all the quilts in the book. Website https://mrsjoys.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/missusjoyFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/MissusJoy

Steven Sharp Nelson is the only cellist in history to play atop the Great Wall of China, among the Chichen Itza ruins in Mexico, in front of The Christ Redeemer Statue in Rio, at the Petra sandstone city in Jordan, near the Iguazu Falls in Brazil and Argentina, on the grounds of the most iconic castle (Eilean Donan) in Scotland and, best of all, on the Death Star!  He has written hundreds of compositions, including two full length symphonies, and sings, plays the piano, the drums, guitar, the bass, the mandolin, the ukulele, and the nose flute. Steven is considered a pioneer in a style he coined, called “cello percussion.” Steven feels grateful that he's just barely famous enough to make a living, but plenty obscure enough to have a life. And that life, he has found, is best lived when striving to follow the teachings and example of his Best Friend and Savior, Jesus Christ.Steven's duet with his wife https://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=1000EMNUWebsite https://thepianoguys.comYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@thepianoguysInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/stevensharpnelsonFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/StevenSharpNelsonMusicDeseret Bookhttps://deseretbook.com/t/author/steven-sharp-nelson

Jenny Doan is more than just a quilting icon. She's a wife, mother, and popular YouTube personality. Her professional quilting journey began over 27 years ago, back when her family first moved to rural Missouri. Little did she know their random point-and-go selection of the Midwest guided them to an epic adventure atop a quilting empire. Watch this week's podcast episode and learn how Jenny's children led the way to the formation and exponential growth of the Missouri Star Quilt Company and its corresponding quilting channel on YouTube.Website https://www.missouriquiltco.comYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@MissouriQuiltCoInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/missouriquiltcohttps://www.instagram.com/jennymsqcFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/QuiltingDealsPinteresthttps://www.pinterest.com/missouriquiltcoThrift Bookshttps://www.thriftbooks.com/a/jenny-doan/1881208

Brooke Romney, a writer, speaker, and connector, is committed to sharing real life with a hopeful twist. She is the best-selling author of three books: “52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens” Volume 1 and 2 and “I Like Me Anyway: Embracing Imperfection, Connection, and Christ”. Brooke comes from girly roots but has morphed into an outdoor adventuring, dirt loving mom of 4 boys. Meaningful connection with family, friends, strangers, and God is where she finds purpose and joy.Website https://brookeromney.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/brookeromneywritesFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/brookeromneywritesPinteresthttps://www.pinterest.com/brookeromneywritesAmazon Author Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Brooke-Romney/author/B08L8WQN6C?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Scott Christopher is the best-selling author of People People, The Levity Effect, and The Seven UPs of Happiness. He has appeared on NBC's Today Show, Fox Business Channel, CNBC, National Public Radio, and BBC. Since 1995, Scott has circled the globe entertaining and motivating thousands of audiences from senior leader retreats to all-staff meetings. Applicable to all audiences in any industry, Scott's unforgettable messages and off-the-cuff humor illustrate firsthand how levity, humor and becoming a ‘people person' enriches lives at work and at home.Website https://scottchristopher.netInstagram https://www.instagram.com/official_scottchristopherFacebook https://www.facebook.com/scottchristopheractor

Anthony Sweat is an Associate Professor of Church History and Doctrine at Brigham Young University. He received his bachelor's degree in painting and drawing and his Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction. He is the author of several articles and books dealing with the teachings and history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His most recent book is The Holy Covenants: Living our Sacred Temple Promises. Anthony is the host and producer of BYU religious education's popular podcast, Y Religion. As a practicing artist his paintings center on religious themes, including underrepresented events in Church historyWebsite https://www.anthonysweat.comInstagram https://www.instagram.com/brotheranthonysweatDeseret Book https://deseretbook.com/products?query=anthony%2520sweat

Dave Finnegan is a seasoned “human experience collector” who dedicated an entire year to exploring the world to gain a deeper understanding of cultures and human experiences. In 2022 he traveled over 130,000 miles, setting foot on every continent including Antarctica, and navigated some of the world's largest rivers such as the Ganges, Amazon, Nile, and Mekong. He hiked iconic trails such as Kilimanjaro, the Himalayas, Patagonia, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. As a diver, he explored some of the world's most beautiful underwater environments including the Great Barrier Reef, the Red Sea, and the Galapagos Islands. All with a carry-on-sized backpack.  Overall, Dave's journey was a transformative experience.In 2013, Dave was named to the “Top 100 CIO” list by CIO Magazine and was nominated as “Innovative CIO of the Year” by Retail Information Systems magazine. He worked at the Orvis Company for seven years (2014-2021) where he was the Customer Experience Officer. Prior to Orvis, he helped to start up Build-A-Bear Workshop (1999-2014) where he served as Chief Information and Interactive Officer for the company. He was instrumental in the development of the award-winning Build-A-Bear Workshop Store of the Future: an innovative blend of digital technology and store experience. Exploring Planet Earth 2022, Instagram page - https://www.instagram.com/exploringplanetearth2022Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davefinneganThe National CIO Review magazine interview - https://nationalcioreview.com/interviews-with-technology-leaders/qa-dave-finnegan-chief-experience-officer-orvis/

Hilary Weeks loves hearing stories and imagining what it would be like to feel and experience the things someone else does. She feels drawn to unlock and express the feelings of the heart through music. Sometimes her music collections feel a little like children in that they consume her thoughts, energy, and creativity and she hopes they add good to the world. She strives to put God first in her life because she knows He makes everything else fall into place.hilaryweeks.comfacebook.com/hilaryweeksinstagram.com/hilaryweeksmusicyoutube.com/@HilaryWeeksMusicBest songs list https://www.allmusic.com/artist/hilary-weeks-mn0000140840/songsLimitless by Kris Krohn https://youtu.be/yU6VuEMZatg

Inspirational speaker, entertainer Jason Hewlett is the author of the Facebook post entitled, “I Saw My Wife at Target Today”, a viral post that was seen by more than 100 million people across the globe. Jason has delivered thousands of presentations and was one of the youngest speakers to be inducted into the prestigious Speaker Hall of Fame. His talks inspire leadership from the perspective of a Promise while giving attendees an engaging, entertaining, and educational experience.instagram.com/jasonhewlettfacebook.com/jasonhewlettentertainerlinkedin.com/in/jasonhewlettyoutube.com/user/jasonrhewletttwitter.com/jasonhewlett

Cali Black is an author, podcaster, speaker, and content creator who loves the scriptures. At the beginning of 2019, Cali felt called to start an Instagram account titled @ComeFollowMeStudy. Little did she know that a worldwide pandemic would hit the following year and her content would be needed more than ever. She was able to pivot her content and focus on using the Book of Mormon to share peace and joy. Cali also co-hosts the popular podcast, One Minute Scripture Study, and has co-written two Amazon best-selling books, “One Minute Scripture Study in the New Testament” and also a version of the Old Testament. Above all, Cali knows that the scriptures hold the keys to pointing us toward our Savior Jesus Christ.Website https://comefollowmestudy.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/comefollowmestudyYouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@comefollowmestudywithcaliblack/videosAmazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/1462144446/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_XYQBQ0HCG90YB203KWVK?linkCode=ml1&tag=comefollowm0f-20One Minute Scripture Study podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/one-minute-scripture-study-a-come-follow-me-podcast/id1501755896

Lauren Walker is one of six sisters, THE Six Sisters, who have published 10 cookbooks, released cooking and freezer meal courses, and recently launched two podcasts: “Table Talk for Moms” where listeners can sit down together each week to tackle difficult topics of motherhood; “Start-up Spark” offers quick tips to help listeners take their start-up business to the next level. It all started with Lauren and her sisters sitting around a long kitchen counter watching their mother cook, and later, after they left home for college and marriage, starting a blog to stay in touch by sharing family recipes and the things they were doing to keep their children occupied.Six Sisters Stuff website: https://www.sixsistersstuff.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sixsistersstuffFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SixSistersStuffYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SixSistersStuff/videosPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/SixSistersStuffTwitter: https://twitter.com/sixsistersstuff

If he can help students find joy in reading and writing by telling them the story of how he wore an eye patch in first grade and told classmates he was a pirate, then J. Scott Savage will do it. In this episode of “Called to Create: An LDSPMA Podcast” with host Connie Sokol, Scott shares insights garnered over decades of experience, telling how it took debt and two recessions for him to unearth his talent and become a popular writer of middle grade books. Now he travels all across the country inspiring youth and adults with the joy of reading.https://www.jscottsavage.comhttps://twitter.com/jscottsavage?lang=enhttps://www.instagram.com/jscottsavage/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057711893215

Award-winning journalist Jane Clayson Johnson has traveled the world covering domestic and international stories for two decades, interviewing the biggest newsmakers of the day. Widely known for her work at CBS News, ABC News, and on the nationally syndicated NPR program, On Point, she co-anchored with Bryant Gumbel, worked with Peter Jennings, and anchored coverage of the 9/11 terrorist attack and its aftermath. She is also the best-selling author of “I Am a Mother” and “Silent Souls Weeping.” Jane and her husband, Mark, are the parents of five children and grandparents of three.Website https://www.janeclaysonjohnson.comInstagram https://www.instagram.com/janeclaysonjohnsonBooks https://deseretbook.com/t/author/jane-clayson-johnson