Pointing Toward Hope

Welcome Back!  It's been so long since we've chatted.  Here is a little catch up and preview of episodes to come.  I'm happy to be back and can't wait to hear from you.  Be sure and like and post a rating or review, that sure helps the podcast get found!Link to Elder Kearon's talk, "God's Intent is to Bring You Home"Link to my JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In this episode I am going to go over 5 things you can do now to lift the winter blues.Elder Hales talk Out of Darkness into His Marvelous LightUV Light therapy box Link to my JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In this episode McKenna describes her experiences with severe anxiety and panic attacks and how she has been able to grow through her trials.Link to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In this episode I will share with you what I learned from losing my testimony and leaving the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  Link to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

I have been waiting for 2 years to interview our guest for today!  I know that you will enjoy his conversions story.  I hope you will check it out and see who I got to interview for this episode.Link to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Dusty Smith was converted to the church in his late teen years.  He then encountered some "anti-mormons" and began a quest to find answers to questions that he couldn't answer.  When he wasn't satisfied with those answers, he asked for his name to be removed from church records and became one of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints most outspoken  anti- Mormon.  for 26 years he fought against the church and it's members.Until one day, after many miracles, his testimony came back and  he returned to the church. In today's episode, Dusty talks about his journey and some of the miracles he experienced along the way.  Find out why he says it's so important to hold on your testimony.Contact Dusty Link to my journalsPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope Instagram

Today on the podcast I have my new friend, Bree Ingram.  Bree has an incredible story of resilience and strength and overcoming addiction through the power of the atonement of Jesus Christ.  I am excited to be able to share her story of addiction recovery with all of you!You can contact Bree via Facebook or Instagram Link to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

A quick episode on my thoughts for this week.  Hope yours turns out amazing!Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Tomorrow the Lord will Work WondersLink to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today on the podcast I have Catherine Picon who has an amazing story of perseverance through struggle.   She was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was 35 weeks pregnant with her 5th baby.  She is such an example of courage and faithfulness.  The spirit was strong during our chat, you will love her!  "Do I Believe,"  Bonnie L. Oscarson  Link to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Before I get into this week's episode I wanted to just express that this particular one will be vulnerable for me. And may be triggering for others. I will be giving a deeper, more in depth look at what I have experienced while living with mental illness and what led up to my diagnosis. I am doing this because I have had many people that have questioned whether or not they themselves or possibly a friend or family member may need help. It's important to mention that some of the things that I discuss may be triggering or difficult for those that struggle with mental illness. So if that is you, you may want to either skip this episode, or come back to it later when you're feeling up to it. Also please remember that there is a new nation wide suicide and crisis hotline number “988” that you can call if you need help. If you or someone you know is suicidal or deeply depressed, please seek help from a medical professional, preferably a psychiatrist, who can help you assess your needs. *If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through or are working through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  Pointing toward hope blog   The Refining Fire of Affliction  Elder D. Todd ChristoffersenPointing toward hope FB page Pointing toward hope Instagram Link to my Youtube Channel Link to my NEW JOURNALS!

This episode is something that I have't done before but just felt compelled to do.  I interviewed Nicole Wiley in September of 2020, a two time cancer survivor, right after I started the podcast. Over the last 2 years since that episode aired, Nicole has experienced trials of a different kind.  We have had so many good conversations about Christ, trials and just life so we thought it would be interesting to just record one of our conversations and kind of follow up on what's going on with her.  I think that you will laugh and cry and see a lot of what we all experience in the daily trials of life.  The song Nicole talked about "Blessings by Laura Story"Link to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through or are working through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast. Before I get into this week's episode I wanted to just express that this particular one will be vulnerable for me. And may be triggering for others. I will be giving a deeper, more in depth look at what I have experienced while living with mental illness and what led up to my diagnosis. I am doing this because I have had many people that have questioned whether or not they themselves or possibly a friend or family member may need help. It's important to mention that some of the things that I discuss may be triggering or difficult for those that struggle with mental illness. So if that is you, you may want to either skip this episode, or come back to it later when you're feeling up to it. Also please remember that there is a new nation wide suicide and crisis hotline number “988” that you can call if you need help. If you or someone you know is suicidal or deeply depressed, please seek help from a medical professional, preferably a psychiatrist, who can help you assess your needs.  Pointing toward hope blog Pointing toward hope FB page Pointing toward hope Instagram Link to my Youtube Channel Link to my NEW JOURNALS!

Today on the podcast I have a special guest who is in the midst of an extremely difficult trial.  She has been gracious enough to chat with me during this very vulnerable time in her life, in the hopes that what she and her family are going through can help someone else who may be in a similar situation, be able to draw hope and strength from our Savior.  You can follow Anton's story hereLink to my Youtube ChannelLink to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In this episode I will talk about how important it is to fill your cup first!  And then how "All things shall work together for your good".Link to Youtube ChannelLink to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Well, sort of. Just wanted to pop in and say hello! It’s been a hot, messy minute hasn’t it? I’m grateful if you are still here, that you have stuck with me. Although this is not a full post/episode. I wanted to let you know that I am still here. Just been going through a … Continue reading "and… I’m back"

Hey there!  It's been a while. . .I am still seeking people to interview. If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Link to my NEW JOURNALS!Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In today's episode I talk about seeing our trials from a different perspective.  And how we can use them to refine us rather than define us.Thanks for listening.  Please follow and leave a review.  It will help others when searching for the podcast, and I truly appreciate your support.I am still seeking people to interview. If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Ellen W, Smoots talk April 2002 General ConferenceDeveloping inner StrengthThe Blacksmith video I talked about.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In today's episode I talk about how our habits and the 1% gains can help us to better fight off the temptations of the adversary.Thanks for listening.  Please follow and leave a review.  It will help others when searching for the podcast, and I truly appreciate your support.I am still seeking people to interview. If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Peter M. Johnson's talk from October 2019, Power to Overcome AdversityPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In today's episode I talk about how our habits can help us to better learn how to #HearHim.I will share a personal experience that helped me to get a glimpse at how the Lord can work to help each of us find ways to more fully hear what He needs us to hear on a more regular basis.Thanks for listening.  Please follow and leave a review.  It will help others when searching for the podcast, and I truly appreciate your support.I am still seeking people to interview. If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.One percent better by Elder Michael A. DunnHilary Weeks Live All InPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In today's episode I talk about how the Lord caters to the one (you!).Thanks for listening.  Please follow and leave a review.  It will help others when searching for the podcast, and I truly appreciate your support. I am still seeking people to interview. If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be sharing the epilogue to the epilogue that I talked about last week.  A synopsis of the things that have changed in my life since finishing the book.Thanks for listening.  Please follow and leave a review and share with others.  It will help others when searching for the podcast, and I truly appreciate your support. I am still seeking people to interview. If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram5 Habits for good mental healthLiving with bipolar llCome in the door is open!

Today I will continue reading the book "Keep up the Pace". A book that I wrote several years ago. Today we will be reading Chapter 8.  I am so excited that we have made it to the end. I have had such a good time sharing the way I felt years ago and the things that I was experiencing in that time. It has made me realize how far I've come and in some ways, habits that I need to re-adopt. At the end of today's chapter I leave an Epilogue which was added a few years after the book was written. I would like to do an Epilogue to the Epilogue in the next few weeks where I share where I am at today and the things and ideas that have changed. So hopefully I can put that together soon!Thanks so much my friends for tuning in and supporting me. It really means the world to me! **Still seeking people to interview. Thanks for listening.  If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will continue reading the book "Keep up the Pace". A book that I wrote several years ago. Today I will be reading Chapter 7. Only 2 to go! In this chapter I share experiences I had while directing pageant contestants in the Miss Teen Utah International Competition.Thanks for listening.  Please follow and leave a review.  It will help others when searching for the podcast, and I truly appreciate your support.  I am still seeking people to interview. If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will continue reading the book "Keep up the Pace".  A book that I wrote several years ago. Today we will be reading Chapter 6. In this chapter we will be talking about positive energy and the benefits of surrounding yourself with the good.Still seeking people to interview. Thanks for listening.  If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will continue reading the book "Keep up the Pace". A book that I wrote several years ago. Today we will be reading Chapter 5. Only 3 to go! In this chapter I share an experience I had in the NICU with my fourth child.Still seeking people to interview. Thanks for listening.  If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will continue reading the book "Keep up the Pace". A book that I wrote several years ago.  It's interesting to me how much I have changed, things have changed, since then.  It's been super good for me to remember this time of my life.Still seeking people to interview. Thanks for listening.  If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be reading from chapter 3 of the book I wrote back in 2007-08.Still seeking people to interview. Thanks for listening.  If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be reading from chapter 2 of the book I wrote back in 2007-08.Still seeking people to interview. Thanks for listening.  If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I am doing something a little different.  Years ago I wrote a short book, a memoir of sorts.  I never published it and don't really plan to.  So I thought it might be fun to share it here.  Today I will be sharing Chapter 1.  I will intersperse these throughout the next few weeks. But even if you don't like the book, stay tuned because I have some amazing interviews coming up. I can't wait for you to hear them!

Today Drew Young and I will be discussing anxiety and other mental illnesses, as well as bullying and being kind to others.  We explore the definition of what your "mission" really means.  My special guest is Drew Young, author of The meaning of your mission and future book coming out August 10, Stand Guard at the door of your mind.  Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram Mrdrewbyoung InstagramDrew Young Facebook  Links for  Drew's books. The Meaning of your mission and Stand guard at the door of your mind 

In this episode I will be talking about my recent experience  with living with bipolar.  Hopefully this will help a lot of people better understand what those with mental illness and bipolar go through.  And also those who suffer, get some ideas of things that may help you in your journey toward wellness. Thanks for listening.  If you or someone you know has a trial that you have been able to get through with the help of our Savior, please contact me so we can get you on the podcast.  My goal is to reach as many people as we can to help them to overcome and find joy even in the midst of hard things.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope InstagramLiving with BipolarGeneSight Psychotropic

In this episode I will be discussing the importance of choosing to be kind.Bonnie L. Oscarson April 2014Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In this episode we will talk about choosing to find joy.In Dallin H. Oakes' talk “Opposition in all things”  Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will continue discussing agency and choices.  Is agency free?Russell M. Nelson in 1990Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

This episode is an explanation of where I have been for the last 3 months and why.  Also a little look into what people experience who live with bipolar ll.  This week's subject is agency and choices.D. Todd Christofferson'sFree forever to act for themselves.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I share an experience about learning to ride a bike.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be talking about the power of letting the Lord's atonement work in your life.Brad Wilcox Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

 Interview with Linda Larson ShlitzPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today we will be talking about the rabbit effect. Elder Gary E. StevensonPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today we will be talking about grace and the finishers touch.Brad WilcoxPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be talking about what it means to have the courage to stand for truth and righteousness.S. Gifford NielsonRussell M. NelsonPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be talking about what it takes to have the courage to do you, and do it beautifully.Donald L. StaheliPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will share a personal story of having the courage to forgive someone that hurt you.Gordon B Hinckley's talkPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will sharing a story of great faith in overcoming a giant challenge.Cambry KaylorPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I talk about how to have the courage to move forward when all feels lost.Pointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

We will wrap up this week with a look into the Bible and how to stay the course when the answers don't come.Waiting on the Lord- Jeffrey R. HollandPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be talking about how we can draw near to the Savior.President Nelson's talkPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Today I will be comparing rainbow jello to the gospel.  How fun is that?Sister Clyde's talkRibbon Jello recipePointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

In this episode we continue our conversation about asking and receiving.President Nelson's TalkPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

Welcome to the new version of Pointing toward hope!  PTH 2.0 lol.  I will be discussing the new format and what will be happening here, moving forward.  Then we will discuss our "daily dive".  I will be talking about how to receive answers to your prayers by asking, seeking and knocking.President Nelson's talk Ask, Seek, KnockPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram

An explanation of how things will be changing on Pointing toward hope moving forward.I know that my redeemer lives songPointing toward hope blogPointing toward hope FB pagePointing toward hope Instagram