Connecting Saints Thu, 13 Aug 2026 01:00:01 -0400 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2385294 en-us © 2026 Connecting Saints yes 4e7d48d9-78c3-5863-93b9-ac0a3a5a1ee7 Connecting Saints episodic false A podcast for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to connect and become more unified in our shared pursuit of following Jesus Christ

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Connecting Saints https://storage.buzzsprout.com/9jwmhj7w823fabb3vfheqqou3v3k?.jpg Connecting Saints https://www.buzzsprout.com/2385294 Episode 74 - Dick Pickett Episode 74 - Dick Pickett Re-upload of the interview I did with Dick Pickett who is now in the Emerald Glen ward!

In this episode, we'll hear from Dick Pickett as he recounts growing up in Massachusetts, going to boarding school at age 14 (and leaving his family to do this), his conversion to the church and who would win a 100 yard dash between him and Elton Bingham!  Thanks for putting yourself out there, Dick!

]]> Re-upload of the interview I did with Dick Pickett who is now in the Emerald Glen ward!

In this episode, we'll hear from Dick Pickett as he recounts growing up in Massachusetts, going to boarding school at age 14 (and leaving his family to do this), his conversion to the church and who would win a 100 yard dash between him and Elton Bingham!  Thanks for putting yourself out there, Dick!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19635980 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 23:00:00 -0600 4751 2 8 full false Episode 73 - Brigita Pickett Episode 73 - Brigita Pickett Re-upload of the interview I did with Brigita Pickett.  She's now in the Emerald Glen ward!  

How many of us can say that our stories start in the ruins of Germany shortly after World War 2??!!!  Come get to know Brigita as she talks about the trials her parents faced as they navigated through staying alive during World War 2 and taking care of their family, and how they made it to America, as well as how they eventually became members of the Church of Jesus Christ.  It's a fascinating story and I hope you all enjoy it!

]]> Re-upload of the interview I did with Brigita Pickett.  She's now in the Emerald Glen ward!  

How many of us can say that our stories start in the ruins of Germany shortly after World War 2??!!!  Come get to know Brigita as she talks about the trials her parents faced as they navigated through staying alive during World War 2 and taking care of their family, and how they made it to America, as well as how they eventually became members of the Church of Jesus Christ.  It's a fascinating story and I hope you all enjoy it!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19635963 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 21:00:00 -0600 4146 2 7 full false Episode 72 - Shauna Bjork Episode 72 - Shauna Bjork Re-upload of the interview I did with Shauna Bjork who is now in the Emerald Glen ward.

In this episode, we'll hear from Shauna Bjork talking about growing up in Rye, Colorado, stepping away from the church for a couple of years and the "non traditional" LDS path that she's navigated.  Come join us as she talks about her family, her job, specific blessings from the temple and much, much, more!

]]> Re-upload of the interview I did with Shauna Bjork who is now in the Emerald Glen ward.

In this episode, we'll hear from Shauna Bjork talking about growing up in Rye, Colorado, stepping away from the church for a couple of years and the "non traditional" LDS path that she's navigated.  Come join us as she talks about her family, her job, specific blessings from the temple and much, much, more!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19635943 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 19:00:00 -0600 4232 2 6 full false Episode 71 - Wendy Stewart Episode 71 - Wendy Stewart This is a "re"upload of Wendy Stewart's original interview being that she's a member of of the new Emerald Glen ward.  

]]> This is a "re"upload of Wendy Stewart's original interview being that she's a member of of the new Emerald Glen ward.  

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19634822 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 17:00:00 -0600 4159 2 5 full false Episode 70 - Deb Blakely Episode 70 - Deb Blakely Get to know Deb Blakely - hear her talk about growing up in Missouri, meeting Gary at BYU, and going back to school in her thirties...

]]> Get to know Deb Blakely - hear her talk about growing up in Missouri, meeting Gary at BYU, and going back to school in her thirties...

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19634810 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 20:00:00 -0600 4296 2 4 full false Episode 69 - Gary Blakely Episode 69 - Gary Blakely Get to know Gary Blakely as he moved from Utah to Chicago to Connecticut, back to Chicago and to Fort Collins!  

]]> Get to know Gary Blakely as he moved from Utah to Chicago to Connecticut, back to Chicago and to Fort Collins!  

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19634794 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 20:00:00 -0600 6587 2 3 full false Episode 68 - Rich Bale Episode 68 - Rich Bale Get to know Rich Bale, the 2nd counselor in the Emerald Glen Bishopric....

]]> Get to know Rich Bale, the 2nd counselor in the Emerald Glen Bishopric....

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19634753 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 20:00:00 -0600 5238 2 2 full false Episode 67 - Ken Biery Episode 67 - Ken Biery Get to know Ken Biery - our Elders Quorum President.  Listen to him talk about his conversion story, his time in the Military, going back to school as an adult, and working in the funeral business.

]]> Get to know Ken Biery - our Elders Quorum President.  Listen to him talk about his conversion story, his time in the Military, going back to school as an adult, and working in the funeral business.

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-19634728 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 20:00:00 -0600 7106 2 1 full false Episode 66 - Heather Richey Episode 66 - Heather Richey Today I got to sit down with Sister Heather Richey - a member of the Emerald Glen ward and wife to James Richey (episodes 53 and 54).  I about fell out of my chair when she told me that she left high school for a year to be a foreign exchange student for a year in Australia!  Some of the other highlights:

  1. Growing up in Boulder and in Cheyenne
  2. Getting to know her parents and grandparents
  3. Running track and being a cheerleader
  4. Her time as a foreign exchange student in Australia
  5. Trying to not get married so she could go on a mission
  6. Serving in the San Diego Mormon Battalion mission during the San Diego temple open house
  7. Coming home from her mission and meeting James
  8. And much more....
  9. (Stay tuned for Part 2)
]]> Today I got to sit down with Sister Heather Richey - a member of the Emerald Glen ward and wife to James Richey (episodes 53 and 54).  I about fell out of my chair when she told me that she left high school for a year to be a foreign exchange student for a year in Australia!  Some of the other highlights:

  1. Growing up in Boulder and in Cheyenne
  2. Getting to know her parents and grandparents
  3. Running track and being a cheerleader
  4. Her time as a foreign exchange student in Australia
  5. Trying to not get married so she could go on a mission
  6. Serving in the San Diego Mormon Battalion mission during the San Diego temple open house
  7. Coming home from her mission and meeting James
  8. And much more....
  9. (Stay tuned for Part 2)
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-17420127 Sun, 29 Jun 2025 20:00:00 -0600 7103 1 66 full false #65 - Growing up with a US Senator for a Grandpa And A Two Time Mission President For A Dad - Getting to know Laurel Taylor (my mother in law and featuring Wendy!) #65 - Growing up with a US Senator for a Grandpa And A Two Time Mission President For A Dad - Getting to know Laurel Taylor (my mother in law and featuring Wendy!) In this episode, I got to sit down with my mother-in-law, Laurel Taylor as she recounts some of her adventures growing up.  Some of the things she talks about:

  • Growing up one of the oldest of 8 children
  • Moving to Austria as a teenager to support her Dad who was called as a mission president
  • Marching, Marching, Marching
  • Almost getting proposed to by some Austrian kid and her parents sending her home
  • Meeting her future husband while he was on his mission
  • Living with her Grandpa (who was a US Senator and on the cover of TIME magazine)
  • Raising 8 children
  • And much more....
]]> In this episode, I got to sit down with my mother-in-law, Laurel Taylor as she recounts some of her adventures growing up.  Some of the things she talks about:

  • Growing up one of the oldest of 8 children
  • Moving to Austria as a teenager to support her Dad who was called as a mission president
  • Marching, Marching, Marching
  • Almost getting proposed to by some Austrian kid and her parents sending her home
  • Meeting her future husband while he was on his mission
  • Living with her Grandpa (who was a US Senator and on the cover of TIME magazine)
  • Raising 8 children
  • And much more....
]]> Buzzsprout-17413171 Sat, 28 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0600 5280 1 65 full false #64 - Part 2 - Getting to know Clint Burgess #64 - Part 2 - Getting to know Clint Burgess Here's part 2 of my interview with Clint.  It was an awesome discussion around "knowing" and "uncertainty".  Hope you all enjoy!

]]> Here's part 2 of my interview with Clint.  It was an awesome discussion around "knowing" and "uncertainty".  Hope you all enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-17409044 Fri, 27 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0600 4125 1 64 full false #63 - Part 1 - The Gift Of Uncertainty - Getting to know Clint Burgess #63 - Part 1 - The Gift Of Uncertainty - Getting to know Clint Burgess In this episode, I had the chance to sit down with Clint Burgess from the Kechter Farm Ward. I’d met Clint a few times before, but this was the first real opportunity I had to get to know him—and I’m so glad I did. (Big thanks to Shawn Buffington for making the introduction and helping bring him on the podcast!)

Clint has a fascinating story. The highlight for me was hearing him talk about his faith journey—especially how he navigates uncertainty in a church culture that often emphasizes ‘knowing.’ He’s refreshingly honest and open about where he’s at, and how he keeps moving forward even with real, unresolved questions.  Enjoy!

]]> In this episode, I had the chance to sit down with Clint Burgess from the Kechter Farm Ward. I’d met Clint a few times before, but this was the first real opportunity I had to get to know him—and I’m so glad I did. (Big thanks to Shawn Buffington for making the introduction and helping bring him on the podcast!)

Clint has a fascinating story. The highlight for me was hearing him talk about his faith journey—especially how he navigates uncertainty in a church culture that often emphasizes ‘knowing.’ He’s refreshingly honest and open about where he’s at, and how he keeps moving forward even with real, unresolved questions.  Enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-17376290 Sun, 22 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0600 4021 1 63 full false #62 - From Growing Up On A Farm To Becoming A Dermatologist - Getting to know Mark Taylor (my father in law) #62 - From Growing Up On A Farm To Becoming A Dermatologist - Getting to know Mark Taylor (my father in law) In this episode I sat down with Mark Taylor (my father in law) and got to listen to his story.  They drove up from Utah to visit our family and their son and we had a few minutes to sit down and talk so we made it happen.  Here are some highlights:

  1. Growing up on a farm in Rexburg
  2. Realizing that he didn't want to be a farmer and what he was going to do about it
  3. Going on a mission to Austria
  4. Meeting the daughter of the mission president (that eventually became his wife)
  5. Training to become a dermatologist
  6. How he always worked hard to accomplish his goals
  7. Building his dermatology practice over 40 years
]]> In this episode I sat down with Mark Taylor (my father in law) and got to listen to his story.  They drove up from Utah to visit our family and their son and we had a few minutes to sit down and talk so we made it happen.  Here are some highlights:

  1. Growing up on a farm in Rexburg
  2. Realizing that he didn't want to be a farmer and what he was going to do about it
  3. Going on a mission to Austria
  4. Meeting the daughter of the mission president (that eventually became his wife)
  5. Training to become a dermatologist
  6. How he always worked hard to accomplish his goals
  7. Building his dermatology practice over 40 years
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-17376093 Sun, 22 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0600 6336 1 62 full false #61 - Part 2 - Getting to know Leland Kimball #61 - Part 2 - Getting to know Leland Kimball This is part 2 of my interview with Leland Kimball.  If you haven't listened to part 1 yet, you're missing out and going out of order!  

In this episode I got to sit down with Leland Kimball - one of my great friends here in Northern Colorado.  We moved into the ward just a year or two after them, and have become super close with him and his family.  It was a privilege getting to sit down with him and I am super grateful he was so honest and willing to share his story.  Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up in Thousand Oaks and driving to school in a cop car
  • Looking up to his Dad and brothers
  • His mission in England
  • His love of sports
  • Joining the military and his time in Afghanistan
  • Becoming an endodontist
  • Meeting Kelly (his wife)
  • Their journey from North Carolina to Missouri to Fort Collins
  • How he and his family dealt with the tragic loss of their third son, Braden
]]> This is part 2 of my interview with Leland Kimball.  If you haven't listened to part 1 yet, you're missing out and going out of order!  

In this episode I got to sit down with Leland Kimball - one of my great friends here in Northern Colorado.  We moved into the ward just a year or two after them, and have become super close with him and his family.  It was a privilege getting to sit down with him and I am super grateful he was so honest and willing to share his story.  Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up in Thousand Oaks and driving to school in a cop car
  • Looking up to his Dad and brothers
  • His mission in England
  • His love of sports
  • Joining the military and his time in Afghanistan
  • Becoming an endodontist
  • Meeting Kelly (his wife)
  • Their journey from North Carolina to Missouri to Fort Collins
  • How he and his family dealt with the tragic loss of their third son, Braden
]]> Buzzsprout-17177868 Fri, 16 May 2025 17:00:00 -0600 3450 1 61 full false #60 - Part 1 - Afghanistan, Kelly, and Feeling Quietly Guided - Getting to know Leland Kimball #60 - Part 1 - Afghanistan, Kelly, and Feeling Quietly Guided - Getting to know Leland Kimball In this episode I got to sit down with Leland Kimball - one of my great friends here in Northern Colorado.  We moved into the ward just a year or two after them, and have become super close with him and his family.  It was a privilege getting to sit down with him and I am super grateful he was so honest and willing to share his story.  Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up in Thousand Oaks and driving to school in a cop car
  • Looking up to his Dad and brothers
  • His mission in England
  • His love of sports
  • Joining the military and his time in Afghanistan
  • Becoming an endodontist
  • Meeting Kelly (his wife)
  • Their journey from North Carolina to Missouri to Fort Collins
  • How he and his family dealt with the tragic loss of their third son, Braden



]]> In this episode I got to sit down with Leland Kimball - one of my great friends here in Northern Colorado.  We moved into the ward just a year or two after them, and have become super close with him and his family.  It was a privilege getting to sit down with him and I am super grateful he was so honest and willing to share his story.  Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up in Thousand Oaks and driving to school in a cop car
  • Looking up to his Dad and brothers
  • His mission in England
  • His love of sports
  • Joining the military and his time in Afghanistan
  • Becoming an endodontist
  • Meeting Kelly (his wife)
  • Their journey from North Carolina to Missouri to Fort Collins
  • How he and his family dealt with the tragic loss of their third son, Braden



]]> Buzzsprout-17177836 Fri, 16 May 2025 17:00:00 -0600 3398 1 60 full false #59 - An HXP Trip, Playing Basketball, And The Impact Of A Grandfather - Getting to know Caden Goodell #59 - An HXP Trip, Playing Basketball, And The Impact Of A Grandfather - Getting to know Caden Goodell What an awesome opportunity to interview Caden Goodell!  He's leaving on his mission in 12 days, and we were running out of time....I'm glad he was able to come over and make it happen.

Some of the highlights:

  1. Does he wear a suit?
  2. What if Pres. Nelson called him?
  3. The impact that basketball had on him
  4. The power of an HXP trip and how it motivated him to serve a mission
  5. How his Grandfather made a huge impact on his life
  6. And much more!
]]> What an awesome opportunity to interview Caden Goodell!  He's leaving on his mission in 12 days, and we were running out of time....I'm glad he was able to come over and make it happen.

Some of the highlights:

  1. Does he wear a suit?
  2. What if Pres. Nelson called him?
  3. The impact that basketball had on him
  4. The power of an HXP trip and how it motivated him to serve a mission
  5. How his Grandfather made a huge impact on his life
  6. And much more!
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-17112159 Tue, 06 May 2025 15:00:00 -0600 4664 1 59 full false #58 - Part 2 - Getting to know Roger Cox #58 - Part 2 - Getting to know Roger Cox Enjoy part 2 of my interview with Roger Cox.  

What an awesome opportunity to sit down with Roger and hear some of his story!  I've been trying to get him on the podcast for a while - so it was pretty amazing for me when I asked him (again) and he said "sure!".  Roger is about as steady as they come...always there and always willing to help.  Some of the highlights of his interview:

  • Growing up in a super small town in Kansas
  • Learning the guitar and playing in a band all over the place with his Dad and brother
  • Some of the relationship difficulties with is father
  • How he lost both of his parents in a car accident - before he had time to heal the relationship.  
  • How he wanted to get out of his small town
  • How he was introduced to the LDS church and eventually became a member.
  • Meeting his wife Cindy
  • How he navigated raising 4 children - and one with special needs.  
  • Why he has tons of alarms
  • And much much more!
]]> Enjoy part 2 of my interview with Roger Cox.  

What an awesome opportunity to sit down with Roger and hear some of his story!  I've been trying to get him on the podcast for a while - so it was pretty amazing for me when I asked him (again) and he said "sure!".  Roger is about as steady as they come...always there and always willing to help.  Some of the highlights of his interview:

  • Growing up in a super small town in Kansas
  • Learning the guitar and playing in a band all over the place with his Dad and brother
  • Some of the relationship difficulties with is father
  • How he lost both of his parents in a car accident - before he had time to heal the relationship.  
  • How he wanted to get out of his small town
  • How he was introduced to the LDS church and eventually became a member.
  • Meeting his wife Cindy
  • How he navigated raising 4 children - and one with special needs.  
  • Why he has tons of alarms
  • And much much more!
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16643486 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 22:00:00 -0700 4165 1 58 full false #57 - Part 1 - Losing His Parents In A Car Crash And Why You Should Never Wait To Make Amends - Getting to know Roger Cox #57 - Part 1 - Losing His Parents In A Car Crash And Why You Should Never Wait To Make Amends - Getting to know Roger Cox What an awesome opportunity to sit down with Roger and hear some of his story!  I've been trying to get him on the podcast for a while - so it was pretty amazing for me when I asked him (again) and he said "sure!".  Roger is about as steady as they come...always there and always willing to help.  Some of the highlights of his interview:

  • Growing up in a super small town in Kansas
  • Learning the guitar and playing in a band all over the place with his Dad and brother
  • Some of the relationship difficulties with is father
  • How he lost both of his parents in a car accident - before he had time to heal the relationship.  
  • How he wanted to get out of his small town
  • How he was introduced to the LDS church and eventually became a member.
  • Meeting his wife Cindy
  • How he navigated raising 4 children - and one with special needs.  
  • Why he has tons of alarms
  • And much much more!
]]> What an awesome opportunity to sit down with Roger and hear some of his story!  I've been trying to get him on the podcast for a while - so it was pretty amazing for me when I asked him (again) and he said "sure!".  Roger is about as steady as they come...always there and always willing to help.  Some of the highlights of his interview:

  • Growing up in a super small town in Kansas
  • Learning the guitar and playing in a band all over the place with his Dad and brother
  • Some of the relationship difficulties with is father
  • How he lost both of his parents in a car accident - before he had time to heal the relationship.  
  • How he wanted to get out of his small town
  • How he was introduced to the LDS church and eventually became a member.
  • Meeting his wife Cindy
  • How he navigated raising 4 children - and one with special needs.  
  • Why he has tons of alarms
  • And much much more!
]]> Buzzsprout-16643450 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 22:00:00 -0700 3410 1 57 full false # 56 - Part 2 - A Loving Father Allowing Us Into The Heart Of His Daughter After A Cancer Diagnosis And Eventual Passing - Getting to know Brooklyn Grover via her father Royce Grover # 56 - Part 2 - A Loving Father Allowing Us Into The Heart Of His Daughter After A Cancer Diagnosis And Eventual Passing - Getting to know Brooklyn Grover via her father Royce Grover This is Part 2 of my interview with Royce Grover.   Come get to know his daughter Brooklyn through her own words, thoughts and feelings after learning she had cancer.  

I'm so grateful that my best friend and partner Shawn Buffington reached out to Royce (his former Bishop) and said "you have to be on that podcast - I want to hear your story!"  Eventually we got in touch with each other - and what a cool experience for me to be able to sit down with him.

Royce specifically wanted to share the story of his daughter Brooklyn, who was diagnosed with cancer and ultimately passed away from the disease...but he wanted to share her story through HER experience and HER words.  He used her journals, cards, social media posts, iPhone notes and other documents to share her thoughts and feelings as she dealt with the tremendous weight of feeling so many emotions.  It was a very tender experience to hear from him and you could feel the love that he and his family has for her.  

Part 1 is a little about Royce and his upbringing and story.  He was kind enough to indulge me with that. 

Part 2 is about Brooklyn and her journey - shared through her words - via her father.  






]]> This is Part 2 of my interview with Royce Grover.   Come get to know his daughter Brooklyn through her own words, thoughts and feelings after learning she had cancer.  

I'm so grateful that my best friend and partner Shawn Buffington reached out to Royce (his former Bishop) and said "you have to be on that podcast - I want to hear your story!"  Eventually we got in touch with each other - and what a cool experience for me to be able to sit down with him.

Royce specifically wanted to share the story of his daughter Brooklyn, who was diagnosed with cancer and ultimately passed away from the disease...but he wanted to share her story through HER experience and HER words.  He used her journals, cards, social media posts, iPhone notes and other documents to share her thoughts and feelings as she dealt with the tremendous weight of feeling so many emotions.  It was a very tender experience to hear from him and you could feel the love that he and his family has for her.  

Part 1 is a little about Royce and his upbringing and story.  He was kind enough to indulge me with that. 

Part 2 is about Brooklyn and her journey - shared through her words - via her father.  






]]> Buzzsprout-16598217 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0700 5721 1 56 full false # 55 - Part 1 - Hang Gliding In Cupertino (kinda) and a 1.60 GPA - Getting to know Royce Grover # 55 - Part 1 - Hang Gliding In Cupertino (kinda) and a 1.60 GPA - Getting to know Royce Grover  I'm so grateful that my best friend and partner Shawn Buffington reached out to Royce (his former Bishop) and said "you have to be on that podcast - I want to hear your story!"  Eventually we got in touch with each other - and what a cool experience for me to be able to sit down with him.

Royce specifically wanted to share the story of his daughter Brooklyn, who was diagnosed with cancer and ultimately passed away from the disease...but he wanted to share her story through HER experience and HER words.  He used her journals, cards, social media posts, iPhone notes and other documents to share her thoughts and feelings as she dealt with the tremendous weight of feeling so many emotions.  It was a very tender experience to hear from him and you could feel the love that he and his family has for her.  

Part 1 is a little about Royce and his upbringing and story.  He was kind enough to indulge me with that. 

Part 2 is about Brooklyn and her journey - shared through her words - via her father.  

]]>  I'm so grateful that my best friend and partner Shawn Buffington reached out to Royce (his former Bishop) and said "you have to be on that podcast - I want to hear your story!"  Eventually we got in touch with each other - and what a cool experience for me to be able to sit down with him.

Royce specifically wanted to share the story of his daughter Brooklyn, who was diagnosed with cancer and ultimately passed away from the disease...but he wanted to share her story through HER experience and HER words.  He used her journals, cards, social media posts, iPhone notes and other documents to share her thoughts and feelings as she dealt with the tremendous weight of feeling so many emotions.  It was a very tender experience to hear from him and you could feel the love that he and his family has for her.  

Part 1 is a little about Royce and his upbringing and story.  He was kind enough to indulge me with that. 

Part 2 is about Brooklyn and her journey - shared through her words - via her father.  

]]> Buzzsprout-16598078 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0700 2514 1 55 full false #54 - Part 2 - Getting to know James Richey #54 - Part 2 - Getting to know James Richey Continue on with Part 2 of my interview of James Richey:

Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up with 8 siblings and feeling pressure to follow in their footsteps
  • Being accident prone and almost dying multiple times
  • Some of the difficulties of being on a mission in Argentina
  • Getting into BYU
  • Passing the bar and becoming a lawyer
  • The quickest courtship you'll ever hear of - how he met, dated and married his wife all in a matter of 6 weeks
  • How, in the middle of his life, he jumped into his passion to become a write of novels...and the difficulties and stumbling blocks he faced on his journey
  • and much much more....
]]> Continue on with Part 2 of my interview of James Richey:

Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up with 8 siblings and feeling pressure to follow in their footsteps
  • Being accident prone and almost dying multiple times
  • Some of the difficulties of being on a mission in Argentina
  • Getting into BYU
  • Passing the bar and becoming a lawyer
  • The quickest courtship you'll ever hear of - how he met, dated and married his wife all in a matter of 6 weeks
  • How, in the middle of his life, he jumped into his passion to become a write of novels...and the difficulties and stumbling blocks he faced on his journey
  • and much much more....
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16550532 Sun, 02 Feb 2025 19:00:00 -0700 3394 1 54 full false #53 - Part 1 - Sneaking Into Israel, Feeling Alone In Argentina, And Taking The Leap To Follow His Passion And Become A Writer - Getting to know James Richey #53 - Part 1 - Sneaking Into Israel, Feeling Alone In Argentina, And Taking The Leap To Follow His Passion And Become A Writer - Getting to know James Richey What a great opportunity for me to sit down and talk with James!  I hope everyone enjoys his interview as much as I did.  Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up with 8 siblings and feeling pressure to follow in their footsteps
  • Being accident prone and almost dying multiple times
  • Some of the difficulties of being on a mission in Argentina
  • Getting into BYU
  • Passing the bar and becoming a lawyer
  • The quickest courtship you'll ever hear of - how he met, dated and married his wife all in a matter of 6 weeks
  • How, in the middle of his life, he jumped into his passion to become a write of novels...and the difficulties and stumbling blocks he faced on his journey
  • and much much more....
]]> What a great opportunity for me to sit down and talk with James!  I hope everyone enjoys his interview as much as I did.  Some of the highlights:

  • Growing up with 8 siblings and feeling pressure to follow in their footsteps
  • Being accident prone and almost dying multiple times
  • Some of the difficulties of being on a mission in Argentina
  • Getting into BYU
  • Passing the bar and becoming a lawyer
  • The quickest courtship you'll ever hear of - how he met, dated and married his wife all in a matter of 6 weeks
  • How, in the middle of his life, he jumped into his passion to become a write of novels...and the difficulties and stumbling blocks he faced on his journey
  • and much much more....
]]> Buzzsprout-16550474 Sun, 02 Feb 2025 19:00:00 -0700 3642 1 53 full false #52 - Losing Your Father At Age 7 And Your Older Brother Shortly Thereafter - Getting to know Jim Stewart #52 - Losing Your Father At Age 7 And Your Older Brother Shortly Thereafter - Getting to know Jim Stewart In this episode I got to interview my Dad, Jim Stewart -   My Dad and I never really sit down and just "talk."  And he's not one to talk much about his emotion - and so it was a really cool thing to sit down with him and ask him some questions about some of the stuff he's dealt with in his life.  Losing him at age 7 or 8 would've been unimaginable.  Losing my brother right after that....it's something that's hard to even comprehend.  He talks about meeting my mom, being introduced to the church as a young adult, and how, somehow, he was able to communicate to his kids that he loved them 

So enjoy this episode of me and my dad talking about his life!  

]]> In this episode I got to interview my Dad, Jim Stewart -   My Dad and I never really sit down and just "talk."  And he's not one to talk much about his emotion - and so it was a really cool thing to sit down with him and ask him some questions about some of the stuff he's dealt with in his life.  Losing him at age 7 or 8 would've been unimaginable.  Losing my brother right after that....it's something that's hard to even comprehend.  He talks about meeting my mom, being introduced to the church as a young adult, and how, somehow, he was able to communicate to his kids that he loved them 

So enjoy this episode of me and my dad talking about his life!  

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16541379 Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0700 5777 1 52 full false #51 - Part 2 - Getting to know Richard Bergs #51 - Part 2 - Getting to know Richard Bergs Enjoy Part 2 of Richard's story!

]]> Enjoy Part 2 of Richard's story!

]]> Buzzsprout-16491713 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 13:00:00 -0700 3013 1 51 full false #50 - Part 1 - Pilot, Race Car Driver and Entrepreneur - Getting to know Richard Bergs #50 - Part 1 - Pilot, Race Car Driver and Entrepreneur - Getting to know Richard Bergs Episode 50!  

This is Part 1 of my interview with Richard Bergs, one of the newer members of the Linden Park ward.  Richard is a super humble guy and I loved talking to him.  Some of the highlights:

  • How I learned his name is not BERG - but BERGS
  • How an unhappy childhood led to him wanting to learn how to live life more fully
  • How he became a pilot
  • How he got into racing cars
  • How he found his way to Colorado
  • How he's owned and operated and bought multiple successful businesses
  • How he left the church and worked his way back

and much, much more!

]]> Episode 50!  

This is Part 1 of my interview with Richard Bergs, one of the newer members of the Linden Park ward.  Richard is a super humble guy and I loved talking to him.  Some of the highlights:

  • How I learned his name is not BERG - but BERGS
  • How an unhappy childhood led to him wanting to learn how to live life more fully
  • How he became a pilot
  • How he got into racing cars
  • How he found his way to Colorado
  • How he's owned and operated and bought multiple successful businesses
  • How he left the church and worked his way back

and much, much more!

]]> Buzzsprout-16491581 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0700 3739 1 50 full false #49 - Part 2 - Getting to know Erin McHugh #49 - Part 2 - Getting to know Erin McHugh Enjoy listening to part 2 of Erin's story!  Thanks Erin for coming by!!

]]> Enjoy listening to part 2 of Erin's story!  Thanks Erin for coming by!!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16374621 Thu, 02 Jan 2025 19:00:00 -0700 4901 1 49 full false #48 - Part 1 - Living in Las Vegas, The Damage of Judgment, And Meeting Matt - Getting to know Erin McHugh #48 - Part 1 - Living in Las Vegas, The Damage of Judgment, And Meeting Matt - Getting to know Erin McHugh This is part 1 of my interview with Erin McHugh, a friend and fellow member of the the Linden Park Ward!  Erin has an awesome story and I'm excited for everyone to hear it!  Enjoy!

]]> This is part 1 of my interview with Erin McHugh, a friend and fellow member of the the Linden Park Ward!  Erin has an awesome story and I'm excited for everyone to hear it!  Enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16374581 Thu, 02 Jan 2025 19:00:00 -0700 4265 1 48 full false #47 - The Power Of Listening, Becoming A Medical Professional, And Empowering Women To Be Mentally And Physically Healthy - Getting to know Paula Clark #47 - The Power Of Listening, Becoming A Medical Professional, And Empowering Women To Be Mentally And Physically Healthy - Getting to know Paula Clark In this episode I got to sit down with Paula Clark - one of the newer members of the Linden Park Ward (but not a new member of the church).  Her story was awesome!  Some of the highlights:

  • Grew Up In Southern California (Downey)
  • Served A Mission To Spain
  • Went to BYU and married Dave
  • Raised her 6 children 
  • Returned to finish school to become a nurse practitioner.  
  • Absolutely loves what she does and is passionate about helping women become healthier.
  • Has served many years in various Spanish branches of the church.  
  • And much, much more!

Thanks Paula!

]]> In this episode I got to sit down with Paula Clark - one of the newer members of the Linden Park Ward (but not a new member of the church).  Her story was awesome!  Some of the highlights:

  • Grew Up In Southern California (Downey)
  • Served A Mission To Spain
  • Went to BYU and married Dave
  • Raised her 6 children 
  • Returned to finish school to become a nurse practitioner.  
  • Absolutely loves what she does and is passionate about helping women become healthier.
  • Has served many years in various Spanish branches of the church.  
  • And much, much more!

Thanks Paula!

]]> Buzzsprout-16330155 Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0700 5369 1 47 full false #46 - Part 2 - The Love Between Sisters And Coping With Tragedy - Keep getting to know Natalie Brown #46 - Part 2 - The Love Between Sisters And Coping With Tragedy - Keep getting to know Natalie Brown In this episode Natalie talks to us about the unexpected passing of her sister Tammy, the tremendous grief that she felt...and how she's learning to deal with that grief.  She explores how her capacity for compassion and her desire to not judge anybody has increased.  She also shares a very scary experience where Clint almost drowned and how grateful she is to the Schmidt's who were there to save him.  And much, much, more!  Thanks Natalie!

]]> In this episode Natalie talks to us about the unexpected passing of her sister Tammy, the tremendous grief that she felt...and how she's learning to deal with that grief.  She explores how her capacity for compassion and her desire to not judge anybody has increased.  She also shares a very scary experience where Clint almost drowned and how grateful she is to the Schmidt's who were there to save him.  And much, much, more!  Thanks Natalie!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16292514 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0700 5226 1 46 full false #45 - Part 1 - Crying Is Not Weakness, Skiing Competitively, The Power Of A Blessing, And The Love Of A Leader - Getting to know Natalie Brown #45 - Part 1 - Crying Is Not Weakness, Skiing Competitively, The Power Of A Blessing, And The Love Of A Leader - Getting to know Natalie Brown In this episode, we get to hear another member of the Linden Park Ward - none other than the famous Natalie Brown!  Her interview was awesome, I loved every part of it and I felt of her spirit and she shared about her life.  I'm positive that everyone else will too.  Here are some of the things she shared:

  • How she feels about her new calling
  • How she used to see showing emotion as a weakness - but no longer...and why.
  • Growing up in Frisco, CO
  • How her life revolved around skiing and her successes and failures as she grew
  • The impact of her coaches in her life
  • How she became frustrated with the church and it's people
  • The hurt that comes from judgment
  • How she kept her feelings inside and felt alone
  • How she didn't feel good enough for gods love
  • How a loving leader showed her Gods love through his love
  • How she met her husband Clint and how the Lord was involved....

...and much, much, more!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear another member of the Linden Park Ward - none other than the famous Natalie Brown!  Her interview was awesome, I loved every part of it and I felt of her spirit and she shared about her life.  I'm positive that everyone else will too.  Here are some of the things she shared:

  • How she feels about her new calling
  • How she used to see showing emotion as a weakness - but no longer...and why.
  • Growing up in Frisco, CO
  • How her life revolved around skiing and her successes and failures as she grew
  • The impact of her coaches in her life
  • How she became frustrated with the church and it's people
  • The hurt that comes from judgment
  • How she kept her feelings inside and felt alone
  • How she didn't feel good enough for gods love
  • How a loving leader showed her Gods love through his love
  • How she met her husband Clint and how the Lord was involved....

...and much, much, more!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16278473 Sat, 14 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0700 5085 1 45 full false #44 - Part 3 - How The Pickett Family Helped Bring Mike Closer To Christ, Being Intimidated In Church, And Feeling Gratitude - Keep getting to know Mike Hansen #44 - Part 3 - How The Pickett Family Helped Bring Mike Closer To Christ, Being Intimidated In Church, And Feeling Gratitude - Keep getting to know Mike Hansen This is the final part of Mikes 3 part interview.  In this episode, Mike recounts the last 10 years of his life and how he got to where he is now.  He talks about how he was introduced to the church, how he felt while he was there, what was difficult, what was natural, his baptism...and much much more!  

]]> This is the final part of Mikes 3 part interview.  In this episode, Mike recounts the last 10 years of his life and how he got to where he is now.  He talks about how he was introduced to the church, how he felt while he was there, what was difficult, what was natural, his baptism...and much much more!  

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16243767 Sun, 08 Dec 2024 20:00:00 -0700 4163 1 44 full false #43 - Part 2 - Surviving in Juvenile Hall, LA County Jail And Norco Prison...And How An Ex-Gang Member Took A Chance On Him And Allowed Him To Start Healing - Getting to know Mike Hansen #43 - Part 2 - Surviving in Juvenile Hall, LA County Jail And Norco Prison...And How An Ex-Gang Member Took A Chance On Him And Allowed Him To Start Healing - Getting to know Mike Hansen Part 2 of my interview with Mike!  (stay tuned for Part 3)

Some of the things he talked about:

  • How he didn't know actual fear into he entered Juvenile Hall
  • How the fear became worse when he turned 18 and went to LA County Jail 
  • Living on the streets after he got out of Jail
  • How he got a 7-10 year prison sentence and how he learned to survive
  • How pinnacle (the card game) became a big part of his life in prison
  • How he couldn't get paroled solely because he didn't have an address to go to
  • How an ex-gang member took a chance on him and allowed him the opportunity to begin again
  • How he worked hard, learned skills and became a hardworking and reliable person
  • How another man took a chance on him and how that has continued to bless him to this day.
  • The places he moved around to and how he ended up in Parker, CO
  • How his daughter Maddie came into his life



 

]]> Part 2 of my interview with Mike!  (stay tuned for Part 3)

Some of the things he talked about:

  • How he didn't know actual fear into he entered Juvenile Hall
  • How the fear became worse when he turned 18 and went to LA County Jail 
  • Living on the streets after he got out of Jail
  • How he got a 7-10 year prison sentence and how he learned to survive
  • How pinnacle (the card game) became a big part of his life in prison
  • How he couldn't get paroled solely because he didn't have an address to go to
  • How an ex-gang member took a chance on him and allowed him the opportunity to begin again
  • How he worked hard, learned skills and became a hardworking and reliable person
  • How another man took a chance on him and how that has continued to bless him to this day.
  • The places he moved around to and how he ended up in Parker, CO
  • How his daughter Maddie came into his life



 

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16227012 Thu, 05 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0700 4583 1 43 full false #42 - Part 1 - Come Listen To How God Is In Our Lives Even When We Don't Know It - Getting to know Mike Hansen #42 - Part 1 - Come Listen To How God Is In Our Lives Even When We Don't Know It - Getting to know Mike Hansen In this episode I got to sit down with Mike Hansen, one of the newest members of the Linden Park ward.  He found the church in 2018 and his story is quite unique among traditional members.  But while some of what he has gone through might seem foreign to some, at the end of the day, we're all in the same sinking boat...needing our Savior to....well, to save us.  

I'm grateful that he was willing to open up and share what makes Mike....Mike.  His story was very humbling and I hope you guys can feel connected to him as I did!

]]> In this episode I got to sit down with Mike Hansen, one of the newest members of the Linden Park ward.  He found the church in 2018 and his story is quite unique among traditional members.  But while some of what he has gone through might seem foreign to some, at the end of the day, we're all in the same sinking boat...needing our Savior to....well, to save us.  

I'm grateful that he was willing to open up and share what makes Mike....Mike.  His story was very humbling and I hope you guys can feel connected to him as I did!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16212453 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0700 2752 1 42 full false #41 - Loneliness, The Impact Of A Good Friend, And The Struggle To Gain a Testimony As A Youth - Getting to know Clint Brown #41 - Loneliness, The Impact Of A Good Friend, And The Struggle To Gain a Testimony As A Youth - Getting to know Clint Brown What a cool experience it was to sit down with Clint and listen to his story!  Clint has been a pretty consistent guy in the 10 years I've known him - always happy and laughing - but not often emotional.   I was surprised at how willing Clint was to talk about some of the more difficult times of his life.  He shared what it was like to not have many friends in elementary school and junior high...and the impact one boy had on him after he offered a plea to Heavenly Father for help.  It was very powerful to hear him talk.  Some of the other highlights:

  • The non-traditional career path his Father took and how it affected Clint
  • Growing up in Globe, Arizona
  • Moving to Seattle as a kid and not being a huge fan.
  • Difficulties with friends and struggles with loneliness 
  • Getting into shape as a youth
  • Serving a mission in Venezuela 
  • Meeting his wife Natalie
  • His life as a dam engineer


]]> What a cool experience it was to sit down with Clint and listen to his story!  Clint has been a pretty consistent guy in the 10 years I've known him - always happy and laughing - but not often emotional.   I was surprised at how willing Clint was to talk about some of the more difficult times of his life.  He shared what it was like to not have many friends in elementary school and junior high...and the impact one boy had on him after he offered a plea to Heavenly Father for help.  It was very powerful to hear him talk.  Some of the other highlights:

  • The non-traditional career path his Father took and how it affected Clint
  • Growing up in Globe, Arizona
  • Moving to Seattle as a kid and not being a huge fan.
  • Difficulties with friends and struggles with loneliness 
  • Getting into shape as a youth
  • Serving a mission in Venezuela 
  • Meeting his wife Natalie
  • His life as a dam engineer


]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16190608 Thu, 28 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0700 5541 1 41 full false #40 - The Accountant - Getting to know Wes Scharf #40 - The Accountant - Getting to know Wes Scharf Welcome to episode #40!  

In this episode, I got to sit down with contract killer and LDS stalwart - Brother Wes Scharf.  If you don't know Wes, he's one of the most steady guys you'll ever meet.  He also owns up to having a movie made about his life.  (JK). 

Super solid, super reliable, super friendly....just a great guy.  I interviewed Trinity (his wife) a month or two ago, and you'll hear quite a bit more about Wes there too.  I hope you enjoy his interview!  

]]> Welcome to episode #40!  

In this episode, I got to sit down with contract killer and LDS stalwart - Brother Wes Scharf.  If you don't know Wes, he's one of the most steady guys you'll ever meet.  He also owns up to having a movie made about his life.  (JK). 

Super solid, super reliable, super friendly....just a great guy.  I interviewed Trinity (his wife) a month or two ago, and you'll hear quite a bit more about Wes there too.  I hope you enjoy his interview!  

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16135861 Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0700 3666 1 40 full false #39 - From Construction To Candlelight - Getting to know Dave Clark #39 - From Construction To Candlelight - Getting to know Dave Clark In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Brother Dave Clark, current owner of the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, current Elders Quorum president, current husband to Paula, and current father to 6 kids!  It was a great interview - he's a pretty busy man and I was super glad he came to share some of his story!  Some of the highlights:

  • how he worked in his Dad's family business for many, many years.  
  • How he parlayed that into owning the Candlelight Theatre 
  • How he met Paula
  • How he managed to raise a family while being a business owner
  • And much, much, more
]]> In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Brother Dave Clark, current owner of the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, current Elders Quorum president, current husband to Paula, and current father to 6 kids!  It was a great interview - he's a pretty busy man and I was super glad he came to share some of his story!  Some of the highlights:

  • how he worked in his Dad's family business for many, many years.  
  • How he parlayed that into owning the Candlelight Theatre 
  • How he met Paula
  • How he managed to raise a family while being a business owner
  • And much, much, more
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16113829 Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0700 5351 1 39 full false #38 - Part 2 - Nursery Leaders, Meeting Devaun, And Managing Life With Anxiety And Depression - Getting to know Craig Martin #38 - Part 2 - Nursery Leaders, Meeting Devaun, And Managing Life With Anxiety And Depression - Getting to know Craig Martin In this episode, I continue my interview with one of the most humble and vulnerable guys I've ever met.  I wish everybody had the opportunity to meet him...because you'd know what I mean when I say that!  His willingness to be open and share what's in his heart is super inspiring and motivates me to want to be and do better.  Some of what he shared:

  • How his addiction to cougarboard is helping him be a better man
  • Growing up in Alpine and how he handled some of the difficulties he faced as a kid
  • Why being Student Body President was a really big deal for his future
  • What it was like to serve a mission in Hungary
  • Bishop vs Nursery - His thoughts (and mine) on church callings, Gods love and what really matters.
  • His struggle with depression and how he manages it
  • How he met his wife Devaunn
  • How much he loves Hobby Lobby

and much, much, more!!!

]]> In this episode, I continue my interview with one of the most humble and vulnerable guys I've ever met.  I wish everybody had the opportunity to meet him...because you'd know what I mean when I say that!  His willingness to be open and share what's in his heart is super inspiring and motivates me to want to be and do better.  Some of what he shared:

  • How his addiction to cougarboard is helping him be a better man
  • Growing up in Alpine and how he handled some of the difficulties he faced as a kid
  • Why being Student Body President was a really big deal for his future
  • What it was like to serve a mission in Hungary
  • Bishop vs Nursery - His thoughts (and mine) on church callings, Gods love and what really matters.
  • His struggle with depression and how he manages it
  • How he met his wife Devaunn
  • How much he loves Hobby Lobby

and much, much, more!!!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16071596 Fri, 08 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0700 5841 1 38 full false #37 - Part 1 - Cougarboard, Callings, and Hobby Lobby - Getting to know Craig Martin #37 - Part 1 - Cougarboard, Callings, and Hobby Lobby - Getting to know Craig Martin In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with one of the most humble and vulnerable guys I've ever met.  I wish everybody had the opportunity to meet him...because you'd know what I mean when I say that!  His willingness to be open and share what's in his heart is super inspiring and motivates me to want to be and do better.  Some of what he shared:

  • How his addiction to cougarboard is helping him be a better man
  • Growing up in Alpine and how he handled some of the difficulties he faced as a kid
  • Why being Student Body President was a really big deal for his future
  • What it was like to serve a mission in Hungary
  • Bishop vs Nursery - His thoughts (and mine) on church callings, Gods love and what really matters.
  • His struggle with depression and how he manages it
  • How he met his wife Devaunn
  • How much he loves Hobby Lobby

and much, much, more!!!

]]> In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with one of the most humble and vulnerable guys I've ever met.  I wish everybody had the opportunity to meet him...because you'd know what I mean when I say that!  His willingness to be open and share what's in his heart is super inspiring and motivates me to want to be and do better.  Some of what he shared:

  • How his addiction to cougarboard is helping him be a better man
  • Growing up in Alpine and how he handled some of the difficulties he faced as a kid
  • Why being Student Body President was a really big deal for his future
  • What it was like to serve a mission in Hungary
  • Bishop vs Nursery - His thoughts (and mine) on church callings, Gods love and what really matters.
  • His struggle with depression and how he manages it
  • How he met his wife Devaunn
  • How much he loves Hobby Lobby

and much, much, more!!!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16067731 Thu, 07 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0700 3339 1 37 full false #36 - Part 2 - Anheuser Busch, A Bishops Advice, And Feeling Christ's Love During Immense Trials - Getting to know Brad Emerick #36 - Part 2 - Anheuser Busch, A Bishops Advice, And Feeling Christ's Love During Immense Trials - Getting to know Brad Emerick In these two episodes, I finally got to sit down with Brad Emerick and hear his story (you might've heard his wife Stephanie tell her story in episodes #21 and #22).  It was awesome to hear from him and he got super vulnerable....talking about things that I don't think he planned on sharing.  I was grateful he allowed us into his life.  Some of the things he shared:

  • How he converted from Lutheranism to the LDS church (ironically - just like his wife Stephanie!)
  • What it's like being the only member in his family.
  • How he met and courted Pam (his first wife) and how he lost her to cancer at a very young age.
  • How the Lord helped him through her illness.
  • The dilemma of working for a company that sells beer in a church that has a Word of Wisdom and how he dealt with judgment from other members.
  • How he met Stephanie and won her over.
  • And much, much, more!
]]> In these two episodes, I finally got to sit down with Brad Emerick and hear his story (you might've heard his wife Stephanie tell her story in episodes #21 and #22).  It was awesome to hear from him and he got super vulnerable....talking about things that I don't think he planned on sharing.  I was grateful he allowed us into his life.  Some of the things he shared:

  • How he converted from Lutheranism to the LDS church (ironically - just like his wife Stephanie!)
  • What it's like being the only member in his family.
  • How he met and courted Pam (his first wife) and how he lost her to cancer at a very young age.
  • How the Lord helped him through her illness.
  • The dilemma of working for a company that sells beer in a church that has a Word of Wisdom and how he dealt with judgment from other members.
  • How he met Stephanie and won her over.
  • And much, much, more!
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16042950 Sun, 03 Nov 2024 21:00:00 -0700 3111 1 36 full false #35 - Part 1 - Anheuser Busch, A Bishops Advice, And Feeling Christ's Love During Immense Trials - Getting to know Brad Emerick #35 - Part 1 - Anheuser Busch, A Bishops Advice, And Feeling Christ's Love During Immense Trials - Getting to know Brad Emerick In this episode, I finally got to sit down with Brad Emerick and hear his story (you might've heard his wife Stephanie tell her story in episodes #21 and #22).  It was awesome to hear from him and he got super vulnerable....talking about things that I don't think he planned on sharing.  I was grateful he allowed us into his life.  Some of the things he shared:

  • How he converted from Lutheranism to the LDS church (ironically - just like his wife Stephanie!)
  • What it's like being the only member in his family.
  • How he met and courted Pam (his first wife) and how he lost her to cancer at a very young age.
  • How the Lord helped him through her illness.
  • The dilemma of working for a company that sells beer in a church that has a Word of Wisdom and how he dealt with judgment from other members.
  • How he met Stephanie and won her over.
  • And much, much, more!
]]> In this episode, I finally got to sit down with Brad Emerick and hear his story (you might've heard his wife Stephanie tell her story in episodes #21 and #22).  It was awesome to hear from him and he got super vulnerable....talking about things that I don't think he planned on sharing.  I was grateful he allowed us into his life.  Some of the things he shared:

  • How he converted from Lutheranism to the LDS church (ironically - just like his wife Stephanie!)
  • What it's like being the only member in his family.
  • How he met and courted Pam (his first wife) and how he lost her to cancer at a very young age.
  • How the Lord helped him through her illness.
  • The dilemma of working for a company that sells beer in a church that has a Word of Wisdom and how he dealt with judgment from other members.
  • How he met Stephanie and won her over.
  • And much, much, more!
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16042886 Sun, 03 Nov 2024 21:00:00 -0700 3529 1 35 full false #34 - Part 3 - How Fantasy Football And The Temple Can Change Lives - Getting to know Reed Shupe #34 - Part 3 - How Fantasy Football And The Temple Can Change Lives - Getting to know Reed Shupe In this episode, I had the opportunity to finish interviewing Reed Shupe from the Kechter Farm ward in Loveland Colorado.  Just like in episodes 1 and 2, Reed shared some very powerful things.  It was truly a humbling experience to be with him and hear from him.  This is part 3.


]]> In this episode, I had the opportunity to finish interviewing Reed Shupe from the Kechter Farm ward in Loveland Colorado.  Just like in episodes 1 and 2, Reed shared some very powerful things.  It was truly a humbling experience to be with him and hear from him.  This is part 3.


]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-16037065 Sat, 02 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0600 5198 1 34 full false #33 - Part 2 - The Power Of Vulnerability, Overcoming Addiction, And Experiencing the Joy of The Gospel of Jesus Christ - Getting to know Reed Shupe #33 - Part 2 - The Power Of Vulnerability, Overcoming Addiction, And Experiencing the Joy of The Gospel of Jesus Christ - Getting to know Reed Shupe In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview Reed Shupe from the Kechter Farm ward in Loveland Colorado.  I don't often get emotional - but Reed brought out some really strong feelings this morning.  It was truly a humbling experience to be with him and hear from him.  This interview will ultimately be 3 parts.  This is Part 2.

Some of the things he talked about:

  • Being born into the church, but running away from home at 17
  • Getting into drugs and alcohol and the tremendous effect it had on him
  • The struggle that he felt in disappointing his parents
  • Being homeless and ultimately landing in jail
  • Owing money to a cartel and not paying them
  • How the spirit continued to speak to him all through his trials
  • The love of his parents
  • How he didn't lose hope and never gave up
  • The love he has for his new wife
  • The importance of the temple in his life
]]> In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview Reed Shupe from the Kechter Farm ward in Loveland Colorado.  I don't often get emotional - but Reed brought out some really strong feelings this morning.  It was truly a humbling experience to be with him and hear from him.  This interview will ultimately be 3 parts.  This is Part 2.

Some of the things he talked about:

  • Being born into the church, but running away from home at 17
  • Getting into drugs and alcohol and the tremendous effect it had on him
  • The struggle that he felt in disappointing his parents
  • Being homeless and ultimately landing in jail
  • Owing money to a cartel and not paying them
  • How the spirit continued to speak to him all through his trials
  • The love of his parents
  • How he didn't lose hope and never gave up
  • The love he has for his new wife
  • The importance of the temple in his life
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15996218 Sat, 26 Oct 2024 21:00:00 -0600 3846 1 33 full false #32 - Part 1 - The Power Of Vulnerability, Overcoming Addiction, And Experiencing the Joy of The Gospel of Jesus Christ - Getting to know Reed Shupe #32 - Part 1 - The Power Of Vulnerability, Overcoming Addiction, And Experiencing the Joy of The Gospel of Jesus Christ - Getting to know Reed Shupe In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview Reed Shupe from the Kechter Farm ward in Loveland Colorado.  I don't often get emotional - but Reed brought out some really strong feelings this morning.  It was truly a humbling experience to be with him and hear from him.  This interview will ultimately be 3 parts.  This is Part 1.

Some of the things he talked about:

  • Being born into the church, but running away from home at 17
  • Getting into drugs and alcohol and the tremendous effect it had on him
  • The struggle that he felt in disappointing his parents
  • Being homeless and ultimately landing in jail
  • Owing money to a cartel and not paying them
  • How the spirit continued to speak to him all through his trials
  • The love of his parents
  • How he didn't lose hope and never gave up
  • The love he has for his new wife
  • The importance of the temple in his life
]]> In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview Reed Shupe from the Kechter Farm ward in Loveland Colorado.  I don't often get emotional - but Reed brought out some really strong feelings this morning.  It was truly a humbling experience to be with him and hear from him.  This interview will ultimately be 3 parts.  This is Part 1.

Some of the things he talked about:

  • Being born into the church, but running away from home at 17
  • Getting into drugs and alcohol and the tremendous effect it had on him
  • The struggle that he felt in disappointing his parents
  • Being homeless and ultimately landing in jail
  • Owing money to a cartel and not paying them
  • How the spirit continued to speak to him all through his trials
  • The love of his parents
  • How he didn't lose hope and never gave up
  • The love he has for his new wife
  • The importance of the temple in his life
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15996046 Sat, 26 Oct 2024 20:00:00 -0600 3647 1 32 full false #31 - Teaching Seminary For 8 Years And Still Going Strong! - Getting to know Becky Brian #31 - Teaching Seminary For 8 Years And Still Going Strong! - Getting to know Becky Brian I loved this interview!  I'd only met Becky a few times before this and really only a "hello, how are you."  But it was really cool how this interview came about.  Sister Theresa Barger (episode #3) was recently called to teach seminary with Becky and somehow they got to talking about the podcast.  And when their seminary students found out - they wouldn't let Becky off the hook without coming over and being interviewed.

Becky is in the Namaqua Hills ward in Loveland Colorado and has lived in the same area for 25 years.  Some highlights from the interview:

  • Her thoughts on teaching seminary, the kids, and how it's changed her
  • She shares how she was absolutely positive the Spirit was telling her not to marry the man that eventually became her husband...and what she did with that.
  • She shares that she is going back to school and what that means to her.
  • She describes how she studies the gospel 
  • and much much more! 
]]> I loved this interview!  I'd only met Becky a few times before this and really only a "hello, how are you."  But it was really cool how this interview came about.  Sister Theresa Barger (episode #3) was recently called to teach seminary with Becky and somehow they got to talking about the podcast.  And when their seminary students found out - they wouldn't let Becky off the hook without coming over and being interviewed.

Becky is in the Namaqua Hills ward in Loveland Colorado and has lived in the same area for 25 years.  Some highlights from the interview:

  • Her thoughts on teaching seminary, the kids, and how it's changed her
  • She shares how she was absolutely positive the Spirit was telling her not to marry the man that eventually became her husband...and what she did with that.
  • She shares that she is going back to school and what that means to her.
  • She describes how she studies the gospel 
  • and much much more! 
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15996013 Sat, 26 Oct 2024 20:00:00 -0600 5456 1 31 full false #30 - Strategies To Conquering The Winter Blues, Feeling Alone And Forming A Relationship With The Savior, And Going Back to School Later In Life - Getting to know Emily Buffington #30 - Strategies To Conquering The Winter Blues, Feeling Alone And Forming A Relationship With The Savior, And Going Back to School Later In Life - Getting to know Emily Buffington What an awesome opportunity it was to interview Emily Buffington.  I've had the privilege of knowing Emily for most of my life...and she is literally one of the most caring, honest, hard working and kind people I've ever known.  I'm so excited to share this interview with everyone.  A couple highlights:

  • You learn how she grows in her relationship with the scriptures, prayer and the Savior
  • Feeling alone at certain points of her life and what she did to conquer it.  
  • Not particularly enjoying the dark and cold of winter and how she has largely overcome those feelings
  • Going back to school as an adult with 5 kids and how she managed it.
  • She adds to her husbands (episode 16 and 17) story and gives her perspective on his and their journey.  
  • And much, much, more!
]]> What an awesome opportunity it was to interview Emily Buffington.  I've had the privilege of knowing Emily for most of my life...and she is literally one of the most caring, honest, hard working and kind people I've ever known.  I'm so excited to share this interview with everyone.  A couple highlights:

  • You learn how she grows in her relationship with the scriptures, prayer and the Savior
  • Feeling alone at certain points of her life and what she did to conquer it.  
  • Not particularly enjoying the dark and cold of winter and how she has largely overcome those feelings
  • Going back to school as an adult with 5 kids and how she managed it.
  • She adds to her husbands (episode 16 and 17) story and gives her perspective on his and their journey.  
  • And much, much, more!
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15992341 Fri, 25 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0600 5247 1 30 full false #29 - The Pressure We Feel From Parents, The Pressure Of Being An Oldest Child and Understanding The Atonement - Getting to Know Hermana Clara Stewart #29 - The Pressure We Feel From Parents, The Pressure Of Being An Oldest Child and Understanding The Atonement - Getting to Know Hermana Clara Stewart In this episode, we get to hear from the newly called missionary (literally a couple of hours earlier), Hermana Clara Stewart!  Clara will soon to be serving in the Chile Concepcion Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (in 12 hours to be exact).  I have a special place in my heart for Hermana Stewart because she is the daughter of Brother Stewart (me).  

Listen in as Clara talks about some of the difficulties of growing up being the oldest sibling, the pressure she felt to "be all the things" and how she didn't want to burden us (her parents) with her thoughts, feelings and concerns.  Listen to her excitement as she recounts getting called to Chile and her fear and excitement about beginning her mission...and much, much, more

Good luck, Clara!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear from the newly called missionary (literally a couple of hours earlier), Hermana Clara Stewart!  Clara will soon to be serving in the Chile Concepcion Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (in 12 hours to be exact).  I have a special place in my heart for Hermana Stewart because she is the daughter of Brother Stewart (me).  

Listen in as Clara talks about some of the difficulties of growing up being the oldest sibling, the pressure she felt to "be all the things" and how she didn't want to burden us (her parents) with her thoughts, feelings and concerns.  Listen to her excitement as she recounts getting called to Chile and her fear and excitement about beginning her mission...and much, much, more

Good luck, Clara!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15966213 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 18:00:00 -0600 4627 1 29 full false #28 - One Of The Most Friendly People You'll Ever Meet - Getting to know Jen Orrock #28 - One Of The Most Friendly People You'll Ever Meet - Getting to know Jen Orrock In this episode we sit down with our Primary President - Jen Orrock.  You might've listened to her husband's episode a few months ago (episode #14), and now it's time to hear from her and fill in some blanks to the story!  It was such a blessing to talk to her, and we'll all benefit from listening as she talks about growing up in a small town, feeling pressure to do all the things, meeting Tom, and how in the heck she's always so happy (and much, much more).

]]> In this episode we sit down with our Primary President - Jen Orrock.  You might've listened to her husband's episode a few months ago (episode #14), and now it's time to hear from her and fill in some blanks to the story!  It was such a blessing to talk to her, and we'll all benefit from listening as she talks about growing up in a small town, feeling pressure to do all the things, meeting Tom, and how in the heck she's always so happy (and much, much more).

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15956192 Sun, 20 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0600 5418 1 28 full false #27 - Blood Transfusions, Awesome YW Leaders and Staying Active Physically - Getting to know Trinity Scharf #27 - Blood Transfusions, Awesome YW Leaders and Staying Active Physically - Getting to know Trinity Scharf Trinity has lived in Colorado most of her life and is currently a member of the Linden Park Ward.  She talks about a ton of cool stuff and honestly - everybody should listen to her story!

]]> Trinity has lived in Colorado most of her life and is currently a member of the Linden Park Ward.  She talks about a ton of cool stuff and honestly - everybody should listen to her story!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15898265 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0600 5144 1 27 full false #26 - Being a Nurse Practitioner, the Piccolo, and Escaping BYU Without Getting Married - Getting to know Devaun Martin #26 - Being a Nurse Practitioner, the Piccolo, and Escaping BYU Without Getting Married - Getting to know Devaun Martin In this episode, I had the privilege of talking to Devaun Martin - one of the "newer" members of the Linden Park ward.  Her and her husband Craig and their two boys moved to Colorado from Texas a couple years ago.  Listen in as she describes growing up the youngest of 7 kids in Arizona, joining the marching band and learning to play the Piccolo, and meeting her husband on the sunny shores of Southern California.  She also goes through some of the culture of the nursing program at BYU and what it took for her to become a Nurse Practitioner.  And much, much, more!  Thanks Devaun!

]]> In this episode, I had the privilege of talking to Devaun Martin - one of the "newer" members of the Linden Park ward.  Her and her husband Craig and their two boys moved to Colorado from Texas a couple years ago.  Listen in as she describes growing up the youngest of 7 kids in Arizona, joining the marching band and learning to play the Piccolo, and meeting her husband on the sunny shores of Southern California.  She also goes through some of the culture of the nursing program at BYU and what it took for her to become a Nurse Practitioner.  And much, much, more!  Thanks Devaun!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15867087 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0600 4746 1 26 full false #25 - Temple Sealings, Lung Cancer, and A Greater Understanding of the Atonement - Getting to know Taryn Myatt #25 - Temple Sealings, Lung Cancer, and A Greater Understanding of the Atonement - Getting to know Taryn Myatt In this episode, we'll hear from Taryn Myatt of the Linden Park ward, an amazing gal who has done a tremendous amount of good in our ward!  She was just released from serving as the Young Women's President for the last few years and really had an impact on a lot of the youth.  Come listen as she talks about (among other things):

  • growing up with a big family and why they would sometimes disappear during the summers
  • How and why she gained a deeper understanding of temple sealings
  • Her experience battling lung cancer and the emotional uncertainty and physical pain that came with it
  • Meeting, waiting for her boyfriend Scott to serve a mission to Japan, and marrying him in Manti.
  • Living in Japan for a year as newlyweds
  • And much much more!  
]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Taryn Myatt of the Linden Park ward, an amazing gal who has done a tremendous amount of good in our ward!  She was just released from serving as the Young Women's President for the last few years and really had an impact on a lot of the youth.  Come listen as she talks about (among other things):

  • growing up with a big family and why they would sometimes disappear during the summers
  • How and why she gained a deeper understanding of temple sealings
  • Her experience battling lung cancer and the emotional uncertainty and physical pain that came with it
  • Meeting, waiting for her boyfriend Scott to serve a mission to Japan, and marrying him in Manti.
  • Living in Japan for a year as newlyweds
  • And much much more!  
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15819380 Fri, 27 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0600 5182 1 25 full false #24 - Saints From Outside of Colorado - Getting to know Brad Falke #24 - Saints From Outside of Colorado - Getting to know Brad Falke In this episode, we hear from Kristy Falke's husband - Brad Falke who live in Turlock, CA.  I met them while on a golf trip in St. George and had the opportunity to hear their stories while they were visiting the Gauthiers here in Colorado.   Brad adds on to Kristy's story and talks about a lot of cool things - including:

  • talks about how he navigates relationships in his family business, 
  • how important his family and the gospel are, 
  • how he studies the scriptures, 
  • and much, much, more!
]]> In this episode, we hear from Kristy Falke's husband - Brad Falke who live in Turlock, CA.  I met them while on a golf trip in St. George and had the opportunity to hear their stories while they were visiting the Gauthiers here in Colorado.   Brad adds on to Kristy's story and talks about a lot of cool things - including:

  • talks about how he navigates relationships in his family business, 
  • how important his family and the gospel are, 
  • how he studies the scriptures, 
  • and much, much, more!
]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15819321 Wed, 25 Sep 2024 23:00:00 -0600 4718 1 24 full false #23 - Saints From Outside of Colorado - Getting to know Kristy Falke #23 - Saints From Outside of Colorado - Getting to know Kristy Falke In this episode, we get to hear from Kristy Falke, whom I met a few months ago in St. George, but saw again at church as they were visiting the Gauthiers.  Her story was fascinating from the start - talking about her father who flew P-38's in WWII, growing up in a part member family...and all the way to where she is now, traveling more with her husband and expecting her first grandchild.  Enjoy!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear from Kristy Falke, whom I met a few months ago in St. George, but saw again at church as they were visiting the Gauthiers.  Her story was fascinating from the start - talking about her father who flew P-38's in WWII, growing up in a part member family...and all the way to where she is now, traveling more with her husband and expecting her first grandchild.  Enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15705415 Thu, 12 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0600 4198 1 23 full false #22 - Part 2 - From Lutheranism to Mormonism - Getting to know Stephanie Emerick #22 - Part 2 - From Lutheranism to Mormonism - Getting to know Stephanie Emerick In the second part of Stephanie's interview, we learn about how she met her husband, embarked on her career, raised her family, and stayed close to the Savior through it all.  I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did!

]]> In the second part of Stephanie's interview, we learn about how she met her husband, embarked on her career, raised her family, and stayed close to the Savior through it all.  I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15705367 Sat, 07 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0600 3788 1 22 full false #21 - Part 1 - From Lutheranism to Mormonism - Getting to know Stephanie Emerick #21 - Part 1 - From Lutheranism to Mormonism - Getting to know Stephanie Emerick In this episode, we get to hear Part 1 of Stephanie Emerick sharing with us some of what makes her so special!  Among other things, she talks about her Lutheran heritage and how important religion was to her family - and what it was that converted her to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  And there's much, much more after that!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear Part 1 of Stephanie Emerick sharing with us some of what makes her so special!  Among other things, she talks about her Lutheran heritage and how important religion was to her family - and what it was that converted her to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  And there's much, much more after that!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15705345 Sat, 07 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0600 3102 1 21 full false #20 - A Great Family And A Great Life - Getting to know Sandi Cook #20 - A Great Family And A Great Life - Getting to know Sandi Cook In this episode we get to know more about Sandi Cook as she talks about her amazing life.  She gets into her difficulties having children yet somehow being blessed with 8 of them, her life and travels with her husband, JC, her mission to Germany and much much more.  Sandi is an amazing lady - come listen, feel of her love and learn from her story!

]]> In this episode we get to know more about Sandi Cook as she talks about her amazing life.  She gets into her difficulties having children yet somehow being blessed with 8 of them, her life and travels with her husband, JC, her mission to Germany and much much more.  Sandi is an amazing lady - come listen, feel of her love and learn from her story!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15684323 Mon, 02 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0600 4780 1 20 full false #19 - Little Caesars, Crumbl and Freedom - Getting to know John Gauthier #19 - Little Caesars, Crumbl and Freedom - Getting to know John Gauthier In this episode, we get to hear from John Gauthier, owner of 32 Little Caesars, 23 Crumbls, and multiple Jimmy John franchises.  Listen to how he got his start working at Little Caesars as a teenager and how he turned it into the empire that it is now.  He also talks about his conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ, his relationship with his family and how important they are (especially his wife Jill) are in his life.  Some of the highlights also include a few of the life lessons (like "see a need, fill a need") he learned along the way.  Enjoy!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear from John Gauthier, owner of 32 Little Caesars, 23 Crumbls, and multiple Jimmy John franchises.  Listen to how he got his start working at Little Caesars as a teenager and how he turned it into the empire that it is now.  He also talks about his conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ, his relationship with his family and how important they are (especially his wife Jill) are in his life.  Some of the highlights also include a few of the life lessons (like "see a need, fill a need") he learned along the way.  Enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15666544 Thu, 29 Aug 2024 20:00:00 -0600 5428 1 19 full false #18 - Latvia, World War 2 and America - Getting to know Brigita Pickett #18 - Latvia, World War 2 and America - Getting to know Brigita Pickett How many of us can say that our stories start in the ruins of Germany shortly after World War 2??!!!  Come get to know Brigita as she talks about the trials her parents faced as they navigated through staying alive during World War 2 and taking care of their family, and how they made it to America, as well as how they eventually became members of the Church of Jesus Christ.  It's a fascinating story and I hope you all enjoy it!

]]> How many of us can say that our stories start in the ruins of Germany shortly after World War 2??!!!  Come get to know Brigita as she talks about the trials her parents faced as they navigated through staying alive during World War 2 and taking care of their family, and how they made it to America, as well as how they eventually became members of the Church of Jesus Christ.  It's a fascinating story and I hope you all enjoy it!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15612698 Wed, 21 Aug 2024 20:00:00 -0600 4144 1 18 full false #17 - Part 2 - The Importance of Recognizing Forks in the Road - Getting to know Shawn Buffington #17 - Part 2 - The Importance of Recognizing Forks in the Road - Getting to know Shawn Buffington This is part 2 of getting to know Shawn.  Enjoy!

]]> This is part 2 of getting to know Shawn.  Enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15614239 Tue, 20 Aug 2024 13:00:00 -0600 4337 1 17 full false #16 - Part 1 - The Importance of Recognizing Forks in the Road - Getting to know Shawn Buffington #16 - Part 1 - The Importance of Recognizing Forks in the Road - Getting to know Shawn Buffington In this episode we get to hear from Shawn Buffington of the Kechter Farm ward in the Loveland Colorado stake as he shares about his very unique upbringing.  He talks about growing up in a single parent household, and eventually in his teenage years, with neither of his parents.  He shares about his conversion, the difficulty of being on your own and how he recognized significant moments in his life...and made choices that impacted him tremendously.  And much, much more.  This is a 2 part interview because we just kept talking and it was fun.  So enjoy!

]]> In this episode we get to hear from Shawn Buffington of the Kechter Farm ward in the Loveland Colorado stake as he shares about his very unique upbringing.  He talks about growing up in a single parent household, and eventually in his teenage years, with neither of his parents.  He shares about his conversion, the difficulty of being on your own and how he recognized significant moments in his life...and made choices that impacted him tremendously.  And much, much more.  This is a 2 part interview because we just kept talking and it was fun.  So enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15614148 Tue, 20 Aug 2024 13:00:00 -0600 3839 1 16 full false #15 - Back to the Future, McDonalds, and a Million Dollars - Getting to know Karrie Larsen #15 - Back to the Future, McDonalds, and a Million Dollars - Getting to know Karrie Larsen In this episode - we get to hear from Karrie Larsen!  She talks about her journey growing up, playing on the US National Volleyball team, living overseas, and how she's been able to grow close to the Lord over her lifetime.  And much, much, more!  Thanks Karrie!

]]> In this episode - we get to hear from Karrie Larsen!  She talks about her journey growing up, playing on the US National Volleyball team, living overseas, and how she's been able to grow close to the Lord over her lifetime.  And much, much, more!  Thanks Karrie!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15564315 Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0600 5678 1 15 full false #14 - Bears, Milk, and Mount Everest - Getting to know Tom Orrock #14 - Bears, Milk, and Mount Everest - Getting to know Tom Orrock In this episode, we get to hear from Tom Orrock as he recounts some of the highlights from his life.  We'll learn about how he grew up in Northern California, how he met Jen, his career path and of course, his thoughts on hunting and triathlons.   Thanks for coming over, Tom!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear from Tom Orrock as he recounts some of the highlights from his life.  We'll learn about how he grew up in Northern California, how he met Jen, his career path and of course, his thoughts on hunting and triathlons.   Thanks for coming over, Tom!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15561344 Sat, 10 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0600 4327 1 14 full false #13 - Shoplifting, Picnics, and Bathrobes - Getting to know Brett Larsen #13 - Shoplifting, Picnics, and Bathrobes - Getting to know Brett Larsen In this episode we'll hear from Brett Larsen as he shares with us his life growing up in Fort Collins, how he was converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ, how he met Karrie, and much much more.  But you can't get to the good stuff until we get through the shoplifting, picnics and bathrobes.  Thanks, Brett!

]]> In this episode we'll hear from Brett Larsen as he shares with us his life growing up in Fort Collins, how he was converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ, how he met Karrie, and much much more.  But you can't get to the good stuff until we get through the shoplifting, picnics and bathrobes.  Thanks, Brett!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15552257 Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0600 4749 1 13 full false #12 - Boarding School, Palmyra and Eggplants - Getting to know Dick Pickett #12 - Boarding School, Palmyra and Eggplants - Getting to know Dick Pickett In this episode, we'll hear from Dick Pickett as he recounts growing up in Massachusetts, going to boarding school at age 14, his conversion to the church and who would win a 100 yard dash between him and Elton Bingham!  Thanks for putting yourself out there, Dick!

]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Dick Pickett as he recounts growing up in Massachusetts, going to boarding school at age 14, his conversion to the church and who would win a 100 yard dash between him and Elton Bingham!  Thanks for putting yourself out there, Dick!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15522319 Fri, 02 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0600 4751 1 12 full false #11 - "I Don't Care How They Get To Me As Long As They Get To Me" - Getting to Know Jill Gauthier #11 - "I Don't Care How They Get To Me As Long As They Get To Me" - Getting to Know Jill Gauthier In this episode, we'll hear from Jill Gauthier as she talks about her life growing up in Texas and California, meeting John, the path they took to having 6 kids, and much, much, more!    Thanks, Jill for being willing to allow us to get to know you better!

]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Jill Gauthier as she talks about her life growing up in Texas and California, meeting John, the path they took to having 6 kids, and much, much, more!    Thanks, Jill for being willing to allow us to get to know you better!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15514063 Thu, 01 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0600 4055 1 11 full false #10 - Pancakes, Cruise Ships and Beetlejuice - Getting to know Lindsey Beasley #10 - Pancakes, Cruise Ships and Beetlejuice - Getting to know Lindsey Beasley In this episode, we'll hear from Lindsey Beasley as he gets vulnerable and talks about some of the highs AND some of the lows of his life.  Lindsey is one of the most open and sincere guys I know - and it was a pleasure getting to know him a little better.  Enjoy!

]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Lindsey Beasley as he gets vulnerable and talks about some of the highs AND some of the lows of his life.  Lindsey is one of the most open and sincere guys I know - and it was a pleasure getting to know him a little better.  Enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15497899 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 20:00:00 -0600 4762 1 10 full false #9 - Bishop Whitesides and Leaders who made a difference - Getting to know Chris Schmidt #9 - Bishop Whitesides and Leaders who made a difference - Getting to know Chris Schmidt In this episode we get to hear from Chris describing how he was raised and how he grew up with a bit of a wild side.  He talks about how his Bishop (Brother Whitesides) led with love and how he and other leaders shaped the trajectory of his young adult life.  Hear how Chris has learned to not let judgment bother him and how much he loves his wife and kids.  (And his podcast host.)  

]]> In this episode we get to hear from Chris describing how he was raised and how he grew up with a bit of a wild side.  He talks about how his Bishop (Brother Whitesides) led with love and how he and other leaders shaped the trajectory of his young adult life.  Hear how Chris has learned to not let judgment bother him and how much he loves his wife and kids.  (And his podcast host.)  

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15465593 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0600 4317 1 9 full false #8 - Alarms, Grapes, and Sleep Number Beds - Getting to know Tara Schmidt #8 - Alarms, Grapes, and Sleep Number Beds - Getting to know Tara Schmidt In this episode, we get to learn a little bit more about Tara Schmidt as she talks about meeting Chris, saying goodbye to Aiden, her early years as a convert to the church and how her Grandma changed the trajectory of her life.  And it doesn't end there!  

Enjoy!

]]> In this episode, we get to learn a little bit more about Tara Schmidt as she talks about meeting Chris, saying goodbye to Aiden, her early years as a convert to the church and how her Grandma changed the trajectory of her life.  And it doesn't end there!  

Enjoy!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15463208 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0600 4334 1 8 full false #7 - No Kids, Ricks College, and growing up in Fort Collins - Getting to Know Megan Beasley #7 - No Kids, Ricks College, and growing up in Fort Collins - Getting to Know Megan Beasley In this episode, we'll hear from Megan Beasley as she goes through her life growing up in Fort Collins, meeting Lindsey, and how she loved her youth and college experience!  

]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Megan Beasley as she goes through her life growing up in Fort Collins, meeting Lindsey, and how she loved her youth and college experience!  

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15458044 Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0600 4321 1 7 full false #6 - Ketchup, Swear Words, and Target - Getting to know Shauna Bjork #6 - Ketchup, Swear Words, and Target - Getting to know Shauna Bjork In this episode, we'll hear from Shauna Bjork talking about growing up in Rye, Colorado, stepping away from the church for a couple of years and the "non traditional" LDS path that she's navigated.  Come join us as she talks about her family, her job, specific blessings from the temple and much, much, more!

]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Shauna Bjork talking about growing up in Rye, Colorado, stepping away from the church for a couple of years and the "non traditional" LDS path that she's navigated.  Come join us as she talks about her family, her job, specific blessings from the temple and much, much, more!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15438769 Thu, 18 Jul 2024 21:00:00 -0600 4232 1 6 full false #5 - Breaker of laws, BYU Idaho, and Leaving on his mission in 6 days - Getting to know Aiden Schmidt #5 - Breaker of laws, BYU Idaho, and Leaving on his mission in 6 days - Getting to know Aiden Schmidt In this episode, we get to hear from Aiden Schmidt - 6 days before he leaves for the Villa Hermosa mission in Mexico!  He talks about his experiences in High School, his Freshman year at BYU - Idaho, his deep love for his former Teachers Quorum Advisor, deciding to serve a mission, and much more.  I loved getting to know Aiden a little better, I'm positive you guys will too!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear from Aiden Schmidt - 6 days before he leaves for the Villa Hermosa mission in Mexico!  He talks about his experiences in High School, his Freshman year at BYU - Idaho, his deep love for his former Teachers Quorum Advisor, deciding to serve a mission, and much more.  I loved getting to know Aiden a little better, I'm positive you guys will too!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15425958 Tue, 16 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0600 3495 1 5 full false #4 - Half Siblings, Living with Mom and Dad for 30 years and Arapahoe Rental - Getting to know Suzie Stewart #4 - Half Siblings, Living with Mom and Dad for 30 years and Arapahoe Rental - Getting to know Suzie Stewart In this episode, we'll hear from Suzie Stewart - CEO of Arapahoe Rental, mom to 5 kids, wife to one husband, and an amazing person!   You'll learn how she managed a relationship with her half siblings, how she got cold feet with her future husband and how she runs a company of 75 employees....and much much more!

]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Suzie Stewart - CEO of Arapahoe Rental, mom to 5 kids, wife to one husband, and an amazing person!   You'll learn how she managed a relationship with her half siblings, how she got cold feet with her future husband and how she runs a company of 75 employees....and much much more!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15409483 Sat, 13 Jul 2024 21:00:00 -0600 4100 1 4 full false #3 - Police Officer, Pokemon Go player, and growing up all over the place - Getting to know Theresa Barger #3 - Police Officer, Pokemon Go player, and growing up all over the place - Getting to know Theresa Barger In this episode, we get to hear from Theresa Barger from, among other places, California, New Jersey, Alaska, Arizona, Texas and Germany...(and all before she was 16!)  We learn about her experiences being a convert to the church and a single mom raising a daughter.  We learn about her job as a police officer and some of her feelings around church and Sunday School.  Come learn how she avoids judging others, how she has been changed being close to the temple...and much much more!

]]> In this episode, we get to hear from Theresa Barger from, among other places, California, New Jersey, Alaska, Arizona, Texas and Germany...(and all before she was 16!)  We learn about her experiences being a convert to the church and a single mom raising a daughter.  We learn about her job as a police officer and some of her feelings around church and Sunday School.  Come learn how she avoids judging others, how she has been changed being close to the temple...and much much more!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15409414 Sat, 13 Jul 2024 20:00:00 -0600 4532 1 3 full false #2 - Speaking Italian in Australia, growing up in Cedar City and life as a temple sealer - Getting to know Elton Bingham #2 - Speaking Italian in Australia, growing up in Cedar City and life as a temple sealer - Getting to know Elton Bingham In this episode, we'll hear from Elton Bingham, one of the 16 temple sealers in all of Northern Colorado!  We talk about how he grew up in a single parent home in Cedar City, his life as a missionary, his experience as a temple sealer and much more!

]]> In this episode, we'll hear from Elton Bingham, one of the 16 temple sealers in all of Northern Colorado!  We talk about how he grew up in a single parent home in Cedar City, his life as a missionary, his experience as a temple sealer and much more!

]]> Connecting Saints Buzzsprout-15408950 Sat, 13 Jul 2024 16:00:00 -0600 4779 1 2 full false #1. Homeschool, Perfectionism and Twins - Getting to know Wendy Stewart #1. Homeschool, Perfectionism and Twins - Getting to know Wendy Stewart In this episode we talk with Wendy about growing up with her 7 siblings, her feelings on perfectionism, the difficulties of having 4 kids under 5 years with a husband in dental school and more!  

]]> In this episode we talk with Wendy about growing up with her 7 siblings, her feelings on perfectionism, the difficulties of having 4 kids under 5 years with a husband in dental school and more!  

]]> BJ Buzzsprout-15407837 Sat, 13 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0600 4159 1 1 full false