Return Missionary Next Chapters

Sid Bassett
  • 5.0 (2)
  • 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. Dr. Greg Hudnall - No More Suicide: Saving Self and Others through Christlike Attributes

    3d ago

    Dr. Greg Hudnall - No More Suicide: Saving Self and Others through Christlike Attributes

    In this episode, we explore the transformative journey of a former missionary who turned into a beacon of hope for countless young people battling mental health struggles and thoughts of suicide. Dr. Hudnall shares vulnerable stories from his childhood, mission, and professional life, emphasizing the power of genuine connection, community, and faith to save lives. In this episode:  Dr. Hudnell reflects on how his early years shaped his advocacy for the underdogThe pivotal moment that led him from feeling lost to serving a mission and how it launched his life's purposeThe inspiring story of how Hope Squad was born out of tragic need in Utah schoolsPractical insights into recognizing warning signs and having courageous conversationsThe importance of being present, listening, and showing love to those who feel invisibleWays to empower youth, parents, and communities to prevent suicides and promote mental healthThe role of faith and the gospel principles that underpin Hope Squad’s missionPersonal stories of mentors, companionship, and the importance of seeing and being seenTimestamps:  00:00 - Introduction and the importance of hope after mission service  00:51 - Dr. Hudnall’s childhood and early influences  1:08 - The life lessons from his father and advocacy for the underdog  1:31 - Returning to the church and decision to serve a mission  2:20 - A transformative moment at the gas station leading to his mission call  3:20 - Overcoming challenges during his mission in Las Vegas  4:08 - Lessons learned from mentors and the importance of community  6:39 - Reflections on coming home and the power of divine guidance  7:18 - How a community college scholarship changed his life trajectory  8:17 - Taking steps to further his education with faith and support  10:26 - Mentors in education and life that helped shape his journey  12:15 - The story behind establishing Hope Squad and its impact  20:04 - Tragic stories that fueled the purpose of suicide prevention  22:48 - How Hope Squad identifies at-risk youth and the importance of peer support  25:22 - The significance of early intervention and the dangers of loneliness  28:30 - Real-life examples of Hope Squad in action saving lives  30:27 - Recognizing warning signs and the crucial role of friends and adults  32:07 - Practical advice for those witnessing signs of distress  36:36 - Being present and listening as the greatest act of love  43:01 - The importance of being seen and heard in mental health  50:38 - The gospel principles that guide the mission of Hope Squad  54:05 - Advice to younger self and the power of hope  55:15 - How everyone can be a hero in someone else's life regardless of faith background  56:11 - Words of encouragement for return missionaries and their continued impact  57:24 - Final thoughts: making a life of service and love Resources & Links: Greg Hudnall Hope Squad Founder  Phone. (801) 342-3444  Web. hope (http://www.hopesquad.com/)4utah.com (http://4utah.com/) Address. 5455 North River Run Dr Provo, UT 84604

    59 min
  2. McKenzie Johnson - Finding Connections after Addiction, Loss by Suicide, and Mental Health Struggles

    6d ago

    McKenzie Johnson - Finding Connections after Addiction, Loss by Suicide, and Mental Health Struggles

    In this episode, we sit down with McKenzie Johnson, a resilient and authentic voice who shares her journey through challenges like addiction, mental health struggles, and the heartbreaking loss by suicide of loved ones. Her story is a beacon of hope, showing how turning to faith, vulnerability, and connection can illuminate even the darkest paths. McKenzie’s honesty aims to inspire return missionaries and others navigating their unique next chapters with courage and grace.In this episode: McKenzie’s inspired birth and its spiritual significanceGrowing up with a convert mom and faithful lineageHer lifelong desire to serve a mission and the joyful shock of the age changeFacing opposition, anxiety, and depression while preparing for her missionThe powerful moment of packing her bags to go home and her journey back through faith and supportThe profound impact of addiction, mental health, and family struggles on her lifeLessons learned about shame versus guilt and the importance of connectionThe influence of personal trials on her ability to empathize and serveAdvice for returning missionaries and anyone facing next chapter uncertaintiesThe importance of focusing on the Savior and living with eternal perspectiveTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: McKenzie’s story of resilience and vulnerability02:24 - The spiritual impression of being a "Saturday’s Warrior"04:55 - Her lifelong dream to serve a mission06:33 - The moment of the mission age change announcement08:23 - Obstacles faced before entering the MTC10:17 - Facing family addiction and personal fears before leaving11:22 - The eternal perspective that fueled her decision14:12 - Returning home after her mission and the emotional reunion15:09 - The mental health challenges missionaries face16:29 - Packing to go home: vulnerability and the journey to healing19:52 - Wisdom on overcoming perfectionism and feelings of unworthiness22:37 - Mental health awareness within the church, inspired by Elder Holland24:38 - Family addiction struggles and lessons learned27:28 - Honesty about addictions and building real connection29:51 - The profound significance of family bonds and faith during hardships32:13 - The tragic loss of her brother and her testimony of the plan of salvation36:08 - Turning darkness into light through faith and vulnerability38:13 - Advice on overcoming addiction and the power of connection43:05 - The importance of hope, faith, and pushing forward with God’s vision45:30 - The Pioneer trek and the lesson of perseverance49:29 - Closing encouragement: Keep pushing forward because God sees the whole path

    51 min
  3. Richie Franklin - Family over Broadway: The Remarkable Journey of Losing Self to Finding Purpose

    Jun 26

    Richie Franklin - Family over Broadway: The Remarkable Journey of Losing Self to Finding Purpose

    In this episode, Richie Franklin shares his journey of transformation from a faithful missionary in Paraguay to a versatile actor, scholar, author, and devoted father of seven. His story explores the importance of faith, intentional living, and investing in oneself to navigate life's shifting chapters with purpose and God's guidance. In this episode: How Richie's mission and faith laid a foundation for his life's next stepsThe significance of owning your testimony and making faith deeply personalTransitioning from a mission to the world of entertainment, family, and academiaThe role of safe launches and safe landings in life's transitionsThe importance of personal investment, grit, and seeking divine harmony in our talentsBalancing careers, family, and spiritual growth amid life's challengesHow to develop your own "North Star" rooted in a relationship with Heavenly FatherTimestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Richie Franklin and his inspiring journey01:22 - How faith and family prepared Richie for mission challenges03:12 - Personal testimony development and owning your faith08:00 - Navigating the transition from mission life to the secular world10:14 - The power of unconditional love and self-investment post-mission14:30 - The importance of safe launch and safe landings in life17:10 - Embracing quiet time and self-reflection after returning home20:36 - Harmonizing diverse talents and careers with divine purpose25:04 - Building family and prioritizing life's sacred relationships33:49 - Lessons learned about investments in life and eternal priorities37:27 - The core role of a divine relationship as the true North Star

    42 min
  4. Tyrone Foster: From NFL Dreams to the Mission Field: Impactful Life Chapters Enduring Loss, Feeling Lost, and Being Found through Jesus Christ

    Jun 23

    Tyrone Foster: From NFL Dreams to the Mission Field: Impactful Life Chapters Enduring Loss, Feeling Lost, and Being Found through Jesus Christ

    In this episode, Tyrone Foster shares a vulnerable story of overcoming early adversity, losing his father at a young age, and the powerful ways faith and purpose life gave him clarity and direction. His story is meant to inspire and guide others navigating similar post-mission transitions and challenges. Key Topics Tyrone’s childhood in Florida, shaped by a loving, resilient family.The profound impact of losing his father in the U.S. Navy at age five.How his father’s goals and a chance encounter changed the course of his life.Discovering the gospel and the pivotal moments leading to his faith journey.The transformative power of a mission, serving others, and embracing identity as a child of God.The concept of the unexpected “Liahona”—a personal guide to purpose inspired by a life-saving encounter.Transitioning into emotional intelligence and his work with family offices.Practical advice for return missionaries: maintaining divine identity and trusting the process.Timestamps 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview 00:22 - Tyrone’s early upbringing in Florida and family background 01:21 - Childhood dreams and family dynamics 02:36 - The tragic loss of Tyrone’s father during military service 04:11 - The emotional impact of losing a father at age five 05:41 - How Tyrone felt his father’s presence despite his absence 06:14 - Discovering his father’s goals through a goal list and impact stories 07:10 - How a single conversation at a memorial changed Tyrone’s outlook 08:01 - Finding his father’s goals and the significance of the list 09:47 - The discovery that led Tyrone to serve a mission and find the church 11:00 - The importance of his father's “Liahona”—a personal guide born from impactful encounters 12:09 - Overcoming challenges and growth after his father’s death 13:11 - The role of faith and perseverance during college and football years 15:09 - Prayer and spiritual guidance leading Tyrone to the LDS Church 17:30 - His journey to the LDS Church as a college student 19:03 - The decision to serve a mission following baptism at 19 20:14 - Sacrifice and divine guidance in preparing for the mission 23:08 - The significance of giving up football to follow spiritual callings 26:53 - Miracles and divine timing in his mission preparation 27:48 - Lessons learned from divine guidance and trusting the Lord 29:45 - Reflections on life after the mission and career transition 31:00 - Embracing emotional intelligence (EI/EQ) in personal and professional life 33:00 - Navigating family dynamics and legacy in the context of wealth and inheritance 35:41 - Next gen training, understanding interpretations versus facts in relationships 40:22 - Imagining a final conversation with his father about his life and journey 41:51 - Closing reflections on his life achievements and legacy Resources & Links www.camelotvp.com

    47 min
  5. Wilford Wu - From China with Love: An adventure of Highs and Lows, and the Spiritual Miracles in Between

    Jun 19

    Wilford Wu - From China with Love: An adventure of Highs and Lows, and the Spiritual Miracles in Between

    In this episode, we explore the extraordinary story of Wilford Wu—an international missionary from Beijing who faced monumental challenges after returning from his mission. Wilford's story is a testament to resilience, divine miracles, and the importance of trusting God's plan through every season of life. In this episode: Wilford shares how he prepared to serve a mission from Beijing to Seattle, navigating cultural and language barriersThe surprising moment when his mission call was unexpectedly changed at the airport, leading to a Mandarin-speaking assignment in a new areaA personal account of a miracle prayer that alleviated pain moments before departing for his missionThe emotional struggle and miraculous support during Wilford's post-mission family business bankruptcyInsights on how faith in Jesus Christ and personal testimony helped Wilford overcome deep despair and lonelinessPractical advice for returned missionaries considering education abroad and the importance of counseling with Heavenly FatherWilford’s ongoing journey of growth, helping his family, and preparing for his next chapters with unwavering faithTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Wilford Wu’s compelling story of mission, miracles, and next chapters 02:05 - Preparing for a foreign mission from Beijing to Seattle 06:20 - Overcoming language barriers and first miracle prayer at SeaTac Airport 08:34 - The unexpected change: speaking Chinese in Mercer Island 12:09 - Starting a new Chinese branch and building faith through language and service 15:31 - Returning home to family bankruptcy and post-mission struggles 17:56 - The emotional journey: from disappointment to divine support 20:21 - Working to support family and pursuing education abroad 21:44 - How faith and divine guidance shaped Wilford’s decisions 27:17 - Navigating the lowest points: loneliness, despair, and seeking help 29:55 - Turning point: trusting in Christ’s atonement and feeling divine love 32:39 - Advice for returned missionaries: following divine counsel in next chapters 33:41 - Reflection: trusting God’s path amidst uncertainty and change 35:40 - Closing thoughts: embracing the next chapters with faith and hope

    36 min
  6. Judge Thomas Griffith - From Federal Court to Church Pew: Stay, the Church Needs You!

    Jun 16

    Judge Thomas Griffith - From Federal Court to Church Pew: Stay, the Church Needs You!

    This episode features a conversation with Judge Thomas Griffith, a former Federal Appellate Judge in Washington DC, who shares his spiritual journey, from early complex feelings about religion to a profound conversion experience that shaped his life. His story reveals insights into faith, service, perseverance, and the importance of staying committed to personal beliefs and Church, even through doubts and struggles. Whether you're a returned missionary or exploring faith, this conversation aims to inspire vulnerable honesty and actionable faith-based reflections. In this episode: Growing up in the DC area with a rich family history and early church involvementInitial curiosity and doubts about religion, and the impact of early spiritual experiencesThe paradigm shifts brought by participating in youth activities and missionary discussionsHow reading the Book of Mormon confirmed its authenticity and changed his perspectiveThe influence of compassionate missionary leaders and the power of personal prayerNavigating the transition from missionary life back to everyday lifeLessons learned about obedience, humility, and staying anchored in faith through challengesThe importance of actively building Christ-centered communities and becoming peacemakersReflections on the evolving nature of the Church and our role in its growthPractical advice for post-mission life and remaining faithful in a complex worldTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: The power of vulnerability in sharing missionary "next chapters" 02:35 - Growing up with deep family roots and early church experiences 04:50 - The influence of church rituals and early spiritual feelings during youth 06:57 - How a relationship with a non-member sparked curiosity about the church 09:10 - Unexpected joy and paradigm shifts from youth activities and Firesides 10:37 - The book that changed everything: The Book of Mormon experience 13:49 - A moment with missionary leaders and its lasting impact 15:10 - Overcoming skepticism: The rational and spiritual journey to conviction 18:20 - How studying the Book of Mormon deepened faith and understanding 20:17 - The intellectual case that points to divine origins of the Book of Mormon 22:57 - The profound witness: living and internalizing the gospel 25:38 - Decision to serve a mission: family support and personal motivation 27:06 - The supportive and influential mission leadership experience 30:27 - Mission in South Africa: lessons in humility and divine guidance 33:16 - The divine power of prayer and personal moments of connection 34:35 - Experiences with leaders like Elder Gong and the sacred nature of touch and tenderness 36:17 - The parable of the prodigal son and spiritual embrace 38:23 - The relentless pursuit of love and the Lord’s compassion 39:24 - Learning to obey out of love and the journey to spiritual maturity 41:12 - The importance of obedience as a reflection of love for God 43:24 - How to navigate post-mission doubts and challenges in faith 45:22 - Establishing daily gospel habits and lifelong commitment to the Church 47:17 - Become a disciple: the core priority in living a meaningful gospel life 49:45 - The importance of building the kingdom and helping in the Church’s growth 52:22 - Overcoming division in America: the gospel’s role in healing and unity 55:15 - A new vision for the Church: from separation to celestial purpose 58:09 - The role of Latter-day Saints in promoting peace and understanding 60:00 - The "origin story" of the Church: refugees returning as peacemakers 63:29 - The call to be witnesses of love, mercy, and the Savior’s example 64:49 - Final words: stay faithful, stay humble, and stay actively involved 66:51 - Closing encouragement: the ongoing journey of faith and service

    1h 10m
  7. Neil Knight - The Power of Spiritual Milestones and Generational Service: How Following God's Plan is the Best Plan

    Jun 12

    Neil Knight - The Power of Spiritual Milestones and Generational Service: How Following God's Plan is the Best Plan

    In this episode, Neil Knight shares his inspiring journey from growing up as a lone member in Oklahoma to serving a mission in Madagascar and Mauritius, and ultimately finding his path in life and faith. Join us as Neil reflects on the lessons learned from his mission, his family’s intergenerational spiritual story, and practical advice for return missionaries navigating their own next chapters with faith and intention. In this episode: Neil’s experience growing up as one of the few members in his communityHow reading the Book of Mormon at age 8 shaped his spiritual foundationThe excitement and surprises of receiving his mission call to Madagascar and MauritiusThe story of his mother’s conversion and her featured moment in General ConferenceTransitioning back home and finding purpose through temple serviceStudying at BYU, navigating multiple majors, and trusting the Lord's guidanceLessons of patience, resilience, and faith in decision-makingPractical advice for return missionaries to set spiritual milestones and plan their next chaptersThe importance of creating intentional habits to grow spiritually, professionally, and personallyTimestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and overview of Neil’s inspiring journey  02:19 - Growing up as a church member in Oklahoma  03:06 - Educating others about the Church’s traditions and misconceptions  03:40 - The impact of reading the Book of Mormon early in life  05:50 - Deciding to serve a mission and factors influencing that choice  07:05 - The excitement of receiving his Madagascar and Mauritius call  08:26 - The emotional moment opening his mission call  09:40 - The story of his mother’s conversion and her baptism facilitated by Elder Anderson  12:49 - Family ties and cultural experiences in Mauritius  15:28 - First weeks home and steps to find purpose after returning  16:56 - Language and cultural adaptability in Madagascar and Mauritius  17:17 - Navigating changing college majors and trusting the Lord’s guidance  18:49 - Lessons learned: patience, resilience, and faith  23:27 - Advice for return missionaries: setting spiritual milestones and creating lifelong habits  24:40 - Closing thoughts on preparing for the next chapters with purpose

    26 min
  8. Dr. Hailie Gill - First International Sister in India: A Journey of Heritage and Healing

    Jun 9

    Dr. Hailie Gill - First International Sister in India: A Journey of Heritage and Healing

    In this inspiring episode, Hailie Gill shares her authentic story of serving in India as the first foreign woman in her mission. She faced significant health challenges and discovered her true calling in medicine and service. Hailie's journey highlights the resilience, faith, and purpose that can emerge when life doesn’t go as planned. Her experiences offer inspiration and tangible lessons for others stepping into their next chapter after a mission. From navigating cultural barriers and unexpected health crises to finding a renewed sense of purpose, Hailie's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith.Main Topics Covered: The impact of a global upbringing and family legacy in shaping service-oriented resilienceThe emotional and spiritual weight of carrying a family and community legacy while forging a personal testimonyNavigating culture shock and language barriers in India as the first and only foreign sister missionaryHow faith was strengthened through unexpected health crises, including Christmas Eve in the ERLessons learned from medical experiences abroad—empathy, sacrifice, and callingTransitioning from mission life to post-mission recovery, education, and calling in medicinePractical advice for return missionaries struggling with purpose and purposefulness in the next chapters Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Hailie’s rich family history with the Church in India 02:09 - Preparing for the mission: family legacy as a source of strength and pressure 03:06 - The emotional weight of representing a family legacy during the mission 04:26 - The significance of spiritual testimony rooted in constant, small experiences 07:11 - Discovering her call to serve in New Delhi and opening her mission call 08:35 - The moment Hailie learned she was going to India amidst family disbelief 09:45 - Training in Provo with a unique group bound for India, facing culture shock 10:22 - First impressions of Delhi, language, and the overwhelming urban landscape 15:29 - Serving on Christmas Eve in the ER and passing out Light the World cards 17:34 - Managing long-term illness in India and contemplating returning home 18:55 - Miraculous recovery and finishing her mission with two transfers left 21:07 - Family visit, engaging with early church members, and family history in India 22:17 - Reflection on health setbacks post-mission and how they refined her empathy 28:34 - Lessons from her service influencing her medical path—sacrifice, compassion, and resilience 31:32 - Advice for return missionaries: sustaining routines, faith, and purpose in the next chapters 33:21 - Closing thoughts: Lighting the world through service and the importance of next chapters

    35 min
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About

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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