Return Missionary Next Chapters

Sid Bassett
  • 5.0 (1)
  • CHRISTIANITY

Return Missionary (RM) Next Chapters is a podcast sharing inspiring, honest stories of life after the mission. Through candid, vulnerable, and deeply human conversations with returned missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the show explores how mission service and cumulative life experiences shape faith, identity, and the direction of both the chapters already lived and those still being written. These are stories for anyone navigating the questions, growth, and hope that come after the name tag comes off.

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

    1D AGO

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

    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 landDivine providence in opportunities and life’s divine coincidencesOvercoming feelings of inadequacy as a second-class citizen due to language and cultural barriersThe importance of perseverance, hard work, and surrounding oneself with upliftmentInsights on trusting Heavenly Father’s timing and divine delaysThe impactful relationship with Stephen Covey and lessons learned from mentoringPractical advice for missionaries and young adults feeling inadequate or uncertainThe power of small daily commitments and connecting with the SpiritTimestamps: 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

    1h 3m
  2. Remington Bassett - From Grief and Loss to Purpose: Finding Light After Life’s Darkest Valleys

    5D AGO

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

    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 identityThe process of serving a mission and how growth can come from relationshipsNavigating grief after the loss of a child and emotional isolationThe importance of community, support, and seeking help in healingTransitioning careers: from energy analysis to mental health counselingThe power of vulnerability, honesty, and embracing pain as part of growthPractical advice for return missionaries feeling purposeless or fearfulThe significance of gratitude and daily routines in mental health recoveryThe role of faith, resilience, and intentional self-care in moving forwardTimestamps 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 Therapist & Counselor ResourcesMental Health Support & Tips

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

    5D AGO

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

    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 resilienceHer missionary experience in Baltimore and how her background supported her adaptationThe pivotal moments when her testimony deepened through service and personal sacrificeStruggles with anorexia nervosa and body image, and how faith helped her healThe significance of recognizing the gift of the body as a divine tool for growthPractical ways to embrace grace, vulnerability, and self-love in daily lifeThe importance of authenticity and inner qualities over outward appearanceHow gratitude and trusting Jesus can navigate life's steep climbsAshleigh’s advice for those going through their own next chaptersTimestamps: 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

    33 min
  4. Reagan Yamauchi Anderson - From Missions to the Spotlight: Reagan Yamauchi Anderson’s Inspiring Next Chapters

    5D AGO

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

    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:  Book of MormonHelaman 5:12 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.

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

    MAY 12

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

    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 disappointmentHer transformative experience on her Australia Sydney South missionThe details of her tragic accident and divine interventions during recoveryThe importance of forgiveness, even in the face of trauma and lossHow her faith and family supported her through the darkest momentsThe ongoing mission of sharing her story through firesides and speaking engagementsLessons learned about resilience, divine timing, and the power of faithTimestamps: 00:00 - Kendal’s life before her mission and her sports achievements01:20 - Her early desire to serve a mission and decision to put sports on hold03:33 - Initial expectations and experiences on her Australia mission08:02 - Her description of the accident and divine protection12:27 - The challenges in her recovery process and miraculous milestones16:26 - Her perspective on forgiveness and forgiving the driver17:34 - The impact of her story and her continued mission work29:20 - How her mission experience has forever changed her outlook on life and service

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

    MAY 8

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

    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 & ScrupulosityTherapists who specialize in OCDBook: Freedom from Scrupulocity @ https://www.deseretbook.com/product/P6020547.html

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

    MAY 5

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

    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 identityThe profound impact of a sister’s leukemia diagnosis and the faith that sustained the familyHow personal trials, including divorce and loss, deepen faith and perspectiveThe importance of recognizing humanity in religious leaders and historical figuresThe spiritual significance of prayer and trusting divine timingTransitioning from a traditional career path to academia through faith-driven decisionsLove story: meeting Holly and embracing divine guidance in relationshipsThe sacredness of mourning and finding peace through eternal perspective after losing a childThe vital role of the rising generation and the importance of uplifting youth and young adults in the churchTimestamps: 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: Book: The Plan of Happiness by Gordon B. HinckleyPrimary Children's HospitalResearch on Faith and Divine GuidanceConnect with Nate Sharp: LinkedInChurch Profile

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

    MAY 5

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

    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 artsHow a transformative experience watching Les Miserables shaped his dreams and spiritual outlookThe significance of mentors like Miss J and David Warner in guiding his journey and faithThe challenges and blessings of serving a mission and returning home ready to start life anewThe importance of spiritual progression, relying on the Spirit, and balancing career ambitions with gospel responsibilitiesLessons on trust, patience, and humility through career upheavals and uncertaintiesThe power of immersing oneself in the study of church history and sacred stories to strengthen testimony and acting authenticityInsights on portraying prophets and foundational figures of faith, bringing authenticity and spirit into every rolePractical 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

    50 min
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Return Missionary (RM) Next Chapters is a podcast sharing inspiring, honest stories of life after the mission. Through candid, vulnerable, and deeply human conversations with returned missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the show explores how mission service and cumulative life experiences shape faith, identity, and the direction of both the chapters already lived and those still being written. These are stories for anyone navigating the questions, growth, and hope that come after the name tag comes off.

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