Return Missionary Next Chapters

Eduardo Zanatta - The Unexpected Power of Being a ‘Second-Class Citizen’ in Your Own Life and the Power of a Book.

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we delve into Eduardo Zanatta's journey from a quiet, love-filled childhood in Brazil to becoming a devoted disciple of Christ and a business leader. His story is a powerful testament to divine redirection, persistence, and the transformative power of faith and relationships. Eduardo shares his vulnerabilities candidly, offering valuable lessons for others navigating their post-mission life and seeking purpose beyond perceived limitations.

Main Topics Covered:

The spiritual awakening triggered by Covey's principles and the search for faith in a foreign land
Divine providence in opportunities and life’s divine coincidences
Overcoming feelings of inadequacy as a second-class citizen due to language and cultural barriers
The importance of perseverance, hard work, and surrounding oneself with upliftment
Insights on trusting Heavenly Father’s timing and divine delays
The impactful relationship with Stephen Covey and lessons learned from mentoring
Practical advice for missionaries and young adults feeling inadequate or uncertain
The power of small daily commitments and connecting with the Spirit

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Eduardo Zanatta’s story of divine redirection

02:20 - How Covey’s principles and faith met in Eduardo’s family journey

06:30 - The pivotal moment: discovering the Plan of Salvation and divine purpose

09:00 - Meeting Stephen Covey: From autograph to eternal friendship

12:10 - Miraculous encounters with Covey and their impact on Eduardo’s life

16:20 - Lessons from divine coincidences and divine timing

20:35 - Overcoming cultural and language barriers in Utah and in life

23:38 - Facing setbacks: family financial struggles and personal doubts

26:27 - The importance of perseverance, keeping the main thing the main thing

30:01 - An inspiring story of divine intervention through a stranger in New Jersey

33:51 - Post-mission lessons: setbacks in academic and professional paths

36:45 - The remarkable story of finding an internship at Goldman Sachs in New York

40:29 - Lessons from Joseph of Egypt: Staying close to God and divine elevation

43:19 - Heritage and identity: embracing a multicultural background

44:14 - Practical advice for those feeling inadequate or second class

48:13 - Nurturing relationships, mentorship, and paying it forward

52:29 - Building faith and patience in the early chapters of a journey

55:10 - Trusting divine mosaics: life as a collection of divine pieces

57:25 - Final words: staying connected to the Spirit amidst life’s chaos

58:48 - Parting counsel for missionaries and members feeling insufficient or insignificant

61:14 - Concluding thoughts: Take one step today with faith in divine guidance

Remington Bassett - From Grief and Loss to Purpose: Finding Light After Life’s Darkest Valleys

Fri, 15 May 2026 14:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we explore the vulnerable and inspiring story of Remington Riggs Bassett, a former missionary whose journey of grief, recovery, and purpose offers hope to others navigating their post-mission life. His candid reflections on loss, mental health, career pivots, and finding meaning post-mission serve as a beacon for return missionaries feeling lost or overwhelmed.

Key Topics

The impact of sports injuries and early life challenges on identity
The process of serving a mission and how growth can come from relationships
Navigating grief after the loss of a child and emotional isolation
The importance of community, support, and seeking help in healing
Transitioning careers: from energy analysis to mental health counseling
The power of vulnerability, honesty, and embracing pain as part of growth
Practical advice for return missionaries feeling purposeless or fearful
The significance of gratitude and daily routines in mental health recovery
The role of faith, resilience, and intentional self-care in moving forward

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction: Embracing vulnerability in post-mission life

00:25 - How sports injuries shifted your outlook on life

01:48 - Did you always want to serve a mission?

02:43 - Summarizing a fulfilling and challenging mission

03:27 - Returning home and adapting to family changes in London

04:39 - Growing up moving frequently and how it prepared you for change

06:24 - Losing Piper: Processing grief and feeling isolated

07:46 - Supporting Megan after loss and the importance of emotional connection

08:48 - Finding purpose in mental health work and career transition

12:28 - Navigating low points and addiction recovery

14:37 - Returning to school and how pain led to new passions

16:57 - Advice for return missionaries in dark places

17:58 - Practical steps: Gratitude, self-care, and building purpose

18:13 - Overcoming the fear of the unknown through faith and gratitude

20:14 - Closing thoughts: Embracing the valleys and peaks of life

Resources & Links

Ashleigh Wood Bassett - From Service to Self-Discovery: Anorexia to Self-Compassion and Love for God

Fri, 15 May 2026 01:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of vulnerability, resilience, and faith through Ashleigh Wood Bassett’s story. As a former missionary and mother, Ashleigh shares her journey of overcoming personal battles with anorexia, mental health, and body image—all while embracing her divine purpose and the grace of the Savior. Her story aims to inspire others to see their struggles as part of their next chapter and to find strength in authenticity and faith.

In this episode:

Ashleigh’s childhood and adventurous upbringing that shaped her resilience
Her missionary experience in Baltimore and how her background supported her adaptation
The pivotal moments when her testimony deepened through service and personal sacrifice
Struggles with anorexia nervosa and body image, and how faith helped her heal
The significance of recognizing the gift of the body as a divine tool for growth
Practical ways to embrace grace, vulnerability, and self-love in daily life
The importance of authenticity and inner qualities over outward appearance
How gratitude and trusting Jesus can navigate life's steep climbs
Ashleigh’s advice for those going through their own next chapters

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Ashleigh Wood Bassett’s adventurous life and personal battles

02:25 – Childhood adventures and the foundation of resilience

04:15 – Mission life in Baltimore and adapting to new environments

06:47 – The role of faith and testimony development during service

10:34 – Navigating personal struggles with anorexia and body image

16:24 – Connecting self-compassion with spiritual growth and the Spirit’s guidance

18:37 – Perspective on pregnancy and emphasizing soul over scale

22:15 – Breaking free from generational body image issues and focusing on inner qualities

23:12 – Practical insights for overcoming mental health struggles through faith

27:04 – Lessons about the Savior’s grace from motherhood and leadership

29:05 – The power of grace and humility in daily interactions

30:24 – Ashleigh’s wisdom on gratitude, trust in Jesus, and building others

Reagan Yamauchi Anderson - From Missions to the Spotlight: Reagan Yamauchi Anderson’s Inspiring Next Chapters

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode, former missionary Reagan Yamauchi Anderson shares her extraordinary journey from the mission field in Hawaii to becoming Miss Idaho and then Miss America. Her story is a powerful reminder that our passions, values, and faith can shape our beautiful, authentic next chapters—even amidst setbacks and challenges.

In this episode:

Reagan’s upbringing in Soda Springs, Idaho, and early passions for sports.
How her involvement in basketball and overcoming an ACL injury reshaped her perspective on service and empathy.
Her inspiring transition from mission life to the pageant world, breaking barriers with her innovative talent act.
The importance of staying true to personal convictions, especially in high-pressure situations like beauty pageants and national competitions.
The power of faith, prayer, and remembering the foundation of Christ in everyday life and decision-making.
Practical advice for return missionaries navigating the complexities of post-mission life and redefining identity after titles fade.
Reagan’s championing of modesty, authenticity, and divine identity as keys to lasting joy and influence.

Join us for a conversation that emphasizes vulnerability, resilience, and the unbreakable connection to God that guides our 'next chapters', inspiring listeners to pursue greatness rooted in faith and authenticity.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Reagan's unique story from the mission field to Miss Idaho and Miss America
01:27 - Growing up in Soda Springs, Idaho, and early sports involvement
03:00 - Overcoming ACL injury and lessons learned about identity and service
05:29 - A pivotal moment: shifting focus from self to others, leading to leadership roles
07:44 - Reflection on re-entry after mission service and the importance of maintaining faith
12:22 - The decision to pursue pageantry and the journey to becoming Miss Idaho
19:46 - Embracing authenticity in talent and breaking barriers at Miss America
23:34 - Challenges faced with setbacks, second ACL injury, and growth through adversity
27:39 - Redefining identity beyond titles—living with purpose in everyday life
30:29 - Final words of advice for return missionaries and the importance of the Book of Mormon
32:41 - Reagan’s closing thoughts on faith, resilience, and the power of divine foundation

Resources & Links:

Note: Reagan's story illustrates that true greatness is rooted in staying true to your divine identity, faith, and passions. Her vulnerabilities and victories serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement—reminding us all that our next chapters can be just as impactful and fulfilling as our past.

Kendal Levine - From Mission Tragedy to Miracles: Kendall Levine’s Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Forgiveness

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 -0600

In this touching episode, Kendal Levine shares her inspiring story of overcoming a life-threatening accident, her unwavering faith, and the lessons she's learned about forgiveness, perseverance, and purpose. Whether you're a returned missionary or someone facing your own challenges, Kendal’s vulnerability and strength offer a powerful reminder that our "next chapters" can be filled with hope, growth, forgiveness, and divine purpose.

In this episode:
Kendal’s life before her mission, including her athletic pursuits and scholarship ambitions

The decision to serve a mission despite setbacks and disappointment
Her transformative experience on her Australia Sydney South mission
The details of her tragic accident and divine interventions during recovery
The importance of forgiveness, even in the face of trauma and loss
How her faith and family supported her through the darkest moments
The ongoing mission of sharing her story through firesides and speaking engagements
Lessons learned about resilience, divine timing, and the power of faith

Timestamps:

00:00 - Kendal’s life before her mission and her sports achievements
01:20 - Her early desire to serve a mission and decision to put sports on hold
03:33 - Initial expectations and experiences on her Australia mission
08:02 - Her description of the accident and divine protection
12:27 - The challenges in her recovery process and miraculous milestones
16:26 - Her perspective on forgiveness and forgiving the driver
17:34 - The impact of her story and her continued mission work
29:20 - How her mission experience has forever changed her outlook on life and service

Kiana Aquino - From Teaching to Service Mission, and Fear to Faith - What Scrupulocity (or Religous OCD) Taught Her About Compassion and Grace

Fri, 08 May 2026 02:00:00 -0600

Summary:
In this episode, Kiana Aquino shares her journey through the challenges of scrupulosity, a form of OCD that affected her mission experience. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and finding hope through divine guidance and therapy. Kiana's insights offer encouragement to those facing similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and the power of inspired leadership.

Key Learnings:

Understanding scrupulosity and its impact on faith and mental health.
The role of therapy and priesthood blessings in healing.
Embracing imperfections and finding strength in vulnerability.
The importance of inspired leadership and divine guidance.
How to balance faith with mental health challenges.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: The internal battles of a missionary with scrupulosity.
02:10 - Recognizing OCD and scrupulosity before the mission.
05:20 - The internal struggles of repentance and fear of not being worthy.
09:35 - The powerful moment when a leader’s inspired reassurance changed everything.
12:45 - Deciding to transfer home — listening to divine guidance over fear.
20:30 - A service mission: learning that everyone’s ministry is a different but valuable path.
26:00 - The role of divine tools—therapy, medication, and faith—in healing.
30:15 - Embracing gray areas and the understanding that perfection isn’t expected.
33:00 - The importance of remembering Christ and the simplicity of faith amidst trials.
34:00 - Final encouragement: You don’t have to be perfect to testify and serve.

Resources & Links:

Understanding OCD & Scrupulosity
Therapists who specialize in OCD
Book: Freedom from Scrupulocity @ https://www.deseretbook.com/product/P6020547.html

Nate Sharp - Navigating Loss and Leadership: A Dean and Church Leader's Journey Through Faith and Closed Doors

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 -0600

This episode highlights the powerful and authentic stories of Nate Sharp, a returned missionary whose life is marked by faith, resilience, and vulnerability. His journey shows how the lessons learned from service, family trials, and profound personal loss shape who we become and how we serve others. If you're navigating your own post-mission life, Nate’s story offers both inspiration and practical insights to trust in God's plan, even through life's uncertainties.

Key Topics:

The influence of family heritage and early church history on identity
The profound impact of a sister’s leukemia diagnosis and the faith that sustained the family
How personal trials, including divorce and loss, deepen faith and perspective
The importance of recognizing humanity in religious leaders and historical figures
The spiritual significance of prayer and trusting divine timing
Transitioning from a traditional career path to academia through faith-driven decisions
Love story: meeting Holly and embracing divine guidance in relationships
The sacredness of mourning and finding peace through eternal perspective after losing a child
The vital role of the rising generation and the importance of uplifting youth and young adults in the church

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Nate Sharp’s impactful life story

02:04 - Heritage and connection to Brigham Young shaping identity

02:50 - Recognizing the humanity of church pioneers and historical figures

05:15 - Growing up with family support and lesson from parental decisions

09:15 - Memories of sister’s leukemia diagnosis and the faith journey

10:11 - Navigating the emotional and financial challenges of illness

13:38 - The significance of sacrament and family support during baptism

17:41 - Serving a mission in Korea: culture, faith, and love for Korea

20:35 - Uncertain moments and divine guidance in career decisions

25:18 - The pivotal question: asking the Lord to close doors

29:13 - Meeting Holly and her joyful spirit—building a love rooted in faith

36:06 - The heartbreak and faith in losing a daughter and the eternal perspective

41:45 - God's plan, salvation, and the hope that sustains through sorrow

42:40 - Love for the rising generation and their vital role in the church’s future

45:43 - The church's future is carried by its youth and young adults

Resources & Links:

Connect with Nate Sharp:

Dallyn Bayles - Finding Perspective Through The Bright Lights: An A-List Broadway and Church Performer Shares His Keys to Spiritual Survival

Tue, 05 May 2026 03:00:00 -0600

From the Stage to Service: The Next Chapter of a Missionary and Performer’s Life

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Dallyn Bayles—a man whose career in musical theatre and acting beautifully intersects with his unwavering faith and mission-driven life. As a former missionary, Dallyn shares candid insights about transitions, faith, and using talents for service, aiming to help others navigate their own post-mission chapters with purpose and resilience.

In this episode:

Dallyn reflects on growing up in Green River, Utah, and the early influences that ignited his passion for the arts
How a transformative experience watching Les Miserables shaped his dreams and spiritual outlook
The significance of mentors like Miss J and David Warner in guiding his journey and faith
The challenges and blessings of serving a mission and returning home ready to start life anew
The importance of spiritual progression, relying on the Spirit, and balancing career ambitions with gospel responsibilities
Lessons on trust, patience, and humility through career upheavals and uncertainties
The power of immersing oneself in the study of church history and sacred stories to strengthen testimony and acting authenticity
Insights on portraying prophets and foundational figures of faith, bringing authenticity and spirit into every role
Practical advice for returned missionaries stepping into the next chapter: staying close to the Spirit, seeking a temple-sealed eternal companion, and continuous spiritual growth

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Dallyn Bayles’ inspiring journey
1:11 - Growing up in Green River, Utah, and early artistic influences
2:12 - Mentors who helped shape Dallyn’s artistic and spiritual path
3:50 - The transformative impact of witnessing Les Misérables on stage
6:16 - Desire to serve and bless others through storytelling and performance
8:46 - The inspiring influence of Miss J and her early support in arts and faith
10:39 - Serving a mission and the spiritual motivations behind it
12:12 - Lessons learned from mentors about spiritual progression and trusting in the Lord
15:19 - Facing worldly temptations and staying grounded in faith
17:12 - Recognizing the divine call and rejecting deception with the Spirit's help
18:31 - The importance of continuous spiritual progress in a demanding career
22:00 - Navigating career uncertainties, big breaks, and trusting divine timing
24:14 - Balancing family, faith, and professional pursuits
26:46 - Overcoming trials, uncertainties, and trusting the Lord’s guidance
28:12 - The role of a supportive spouse and reliance on the Spirit during hard times
30:01 - Counsel from church leaders about staying open to divine guidance
31:14 - Humility and patience in receiving revelation and making decisions
32:55 - The importance of refining the skill of spiritual revelation alongside professional growth
35:40 - Immersing oneself in the lives of prophets and sacred figures to deepen faith and authenticity
39:02 - Delivering sacred messages and the Spirit’s influence in portraying church history figures
44:07 - Striving to serve with authenticity, faith, and the Spirit in every role
45:31 - The balance of talent, testimony, and the Spirit—preaching through performance
47:10 - Final advice for returned missionaries contemplating their next chapters: stay close to the Spirit, seek eternal companions, and serve diligently
48:56 - Closing thoughts: embracing the temple path and lifelong learning in gospel service

Spencer Johanson - Flashes of Light in Darkness: Overcoming Unwanted Habits and Addictions

Tue, 05 May 2026 02:00:00 -0600

In this heartfelt episode, Spencer Johanson vulnerably shares his journey through darkness — from personal health struggles, grief over the loss of a nephew, to battling addiction and finding hope in the power of Jesus Christ’s love and repentance. These stories are not only a testament to resilience but also a guiding light for others navigating their own difficult transitions after serving a mission or facing unexpected hardships.

In this episode:

Spencer's childhood in a musical, faith-filled home and the roots of his testimony
The profound impact of his nephew Oliver's diagnosis and passing, and how it shaped his faith
His decision to serve a mission amid personal trials and how the mission transformed him
The realities of transitioning back home, including grief, cultural adjustments, and mental health
An open discussion on the challenges of pornography addiction, shame, guilt, and the path to healing through Christ
The concept of "flashes of light" — divine moments that illuminate faith during dark times
The importance of repentance, ongoing self-improvement, and trusting God's love and power
Practical advice for missionaries returning home, emphasizing listening to God and embracing the next chapters

Timestamps:

(00:01) The fire within long before the mission: Spencer’s childhood and faith foundation
(01:23) Growing up in a musical family: roots of creativity and love
(03:06) How a spiritual experience during baptism shaped Spencer’s testimony
(05:23) Grieving the loss of nephew Oliver and finding peace through scripture
(08:08) Wrestling with faith and theodicy during a heartbreaking season
(11:07) Deciding to serve a mission amid expectations and family tradition
(13:12) Serving as a COVID missionary: blessings, challenges, and memories
(14:42) Returning home amid loss and emotional transition
(17:40) The struggle and hope regarding pornography addiction — honesty and faith
(24:42) Turning to Christ through repentance: pivotal moments and spiritual renewal
(33:23) Flashes of light: divine miracles and divine interventions in everyday life
(34:47) Discovering type 1 diabetes post-mission: a surprising blessing
(40:36) Overcoming shame and the importance of divine love and forgiveness
(44:54) Words of encouragement: listening to God and embracing future chapters

Resources & Links:

Japrix Weaver Stubbs - Why Success Isn't About Winning, But About How Well You Endure Life's Repeat Set-Backs

Tue, 05 May 2026 01:00:00 -0600

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Japrix Weaver Stubbs—a talented athlete and dedicated missionary—who faced multiple knee injuries, personal doubts, and the challenges of redefining her identity. Her story offers hope and practical insights for those navigating setbacks and crafting their next chapters with faith and perseverance.

In this episode:

Japrix's experience of tearing her ACL twice and the emotional toll it took
The pivotal role of her mother’s faith and the powerful impact of small, uplifting truths
How her injuries shaped her spiritual growth and strengthened her reliance on the Atonement
The importance of redefining success and identity beyond physical achievements
Navigating college sports with faith, values, and authenticity in a competitive environment
The intertwining of her athletic pursuits, mission service, and future career ambitions
The unique support her husband provides, including participating as a practice player
Practical advice for missionaries and returnees facing hardships and delays
The lessons learned about humility, patience, and trusting Heavenly Father’s plan

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcoming Japrix Weaver Stubbs and her remarkable story

01:21 - The devastating impact of her first ACL tear before a state tournament

02:39 - Emotional pain and loss of identity beyond being an athlete

03:12 - Discovering the Atonement’s power during recovery

04:22 - Her mother’s faith and the small notes that uplifted her during difficult days

06:35 - Returning to basketball after multiple surgeries and the perseverance involved

07:51 - The frustration of tearing her second ACL and feeling God’s timing

08:45 - How her surgeries prepared her spiritually for her mission

09:39 - Supporting her mission while staying connected to basketball

11:05 - Transitioning successfully into college basketball and balancing faith and competition

14:02 - Navigating team dynamics with integrity and exemplifying her values

15:20 - Dealing with comparisons and understanding blessings through faith

17:25 - Her experience of three ACL surgeries and the lessons in resilience

19:41 - The significance of prayer and reliance on Heavenly Father through setbacks

21:28 - How her hardships have built her character and prepared her for future challenges

23:34 - Supporting her future goals and trusting God’s plan for her next chapters

26:16 - Words of encouragement for others going through trials and setbacks

27:41 - The power of humility and Christ-centered faith in overcoming life’s difficulties

Resources & Links:

Sid and Stephanie Bassett - Podcast Introduction

Tue, 05 May 2026 01:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of former missionaries who have navigated the often challenging transition from post-mission life back to the real world. These stories reveal vulnerability, growth, and the profound ways faith and experience shape their next chapters, offering valuable lessons and encouragement for others walking similar paths.

Key Topics:

The personal journey from corporate career to mental health counseling
The power of listening to the Spirit in making life decisions
How late-life education and career changes can be rediscovered at any age
Lessons learned from handling mental health challenges during and after service
The importance of empathy, understanding, and love in leadership and service
Navigating feelings of inadequacy and finding confidence in new pursuits
How experiences and spiritual guidance influence major life shifts
The significance of chapters and transitions in personal growth
Practical advice for those prompted to change directions

Timestamps:

00:00 - Rewind to understand how career struggles and personal challenges sparked a new calling
02:22 - Returning to school in late 50s: overcoming feelings of inadequacy and awkwardness
03:44 - The power of vulnerability and authentic connection in therapy practice
04:42 - Sacred moments that affirm life-changing career pivots
05:14 - The importance of understanding empathy and walking in others' shoes
06:12 - Transitioning from mental health practice to full-time mission leadership
07:25 - Culturally adapting and empathizing with diverse missionaries
08:02 - Common mental health challenges faced by missionaries in Hawaii
09:15 - How clinical training enriched leadership and pastoral care
10:14 - Walking away from a PhD program: trusting spiritual promptings over plans
11:01 - Recognizing the need to pause and re-evaluate life pursuits
11:51 - The power of prayer, divine guidance, and the Spirit’s promptings
12:20 - Confidence in changing paths after listening to divine guidance
14:07 - The value of understanding the Spirit’s language in decision-making
14:54 - Developing deeper love through understanding others’ journeys
15:47 - The instant love for missionaries and the importance of knowing their stories
16:28 - The ultimate hope for the podcast: helping others feel they are not alone
17:33 - The influence of stories in inspiring, teaching, and motivating change
18:22 - Viewing life as chapters; embracing change and growth
19:01 - Moving forward through challenges, trusting the Spirit, and starting new chapters
19:41 - Gratitude and excitement for the upcoming journey of sharing stories

Resources & Links:

Additional Notes:

This episode highlights that our "chapters" are ongoing and ever-evolving. Whether it's a career change later in life, navigating mental health during missions, or reassessing our life direction, embracing change with faith and divine guidance can lead to profound personal growth and purpose.

Trailer - First 5 Episodes

Mon, 04 May 2026 00:00:00 -0600

Trailer - Our Five First Guests

2nd Podcast Trailer - 1 Week Until Launch

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0600

2nd Podcast Trailer - 1 Week Until Launch

1st Podcast Trailer - 2 Weeks Until Launch

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0600

1st Podcast Trailer - Two Weeks Until Launch