Finding Our Way: Stories of Faith and Resilience

Midland Michigan Stake

Join us as we share authentic conversations with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and our friends and neighbors. This is a space to connect through the challenges and triumphs of life as we explore personal stories about faith and growth. Each episode, we’ll bring you diverse experiences from the Midland Michigan Stake and across our communities—all with the goal of building unity and offering hope to everyone navigating their own unique journey. So, let's find our way together.

Episodes

  1. Jul 11

    Nic Pilon: Framing Faith, Family, and Film Through a Divine Lens

    What happens when you look at life’s scariest, most confusing chapters through a camera lens of faith? In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker and storyteller Nick Pilon to explore how a life filled with rare physical trials, unique family dynamics, and a passion for media was ultimately framed by a higher purpose. Nick opens up about his rich family legacy—from his father's immigration journey from Argentina to his parents' unexpected interfaith romance that began at a California disco. At the heart of the conversation is Nick’s childhood battle with Paroxysmal Nonkinesigenic Dyskinesia (PNKD), a rare neurological disorder that he navigated side-by-side with his identical twin brother, Chris. Nick shares how standing strong through terrifying physical "attacks," experiencing the powerful priesthood blessings of his community, and watching his Catholic grandmother pray faithfully by his bedside helped him zoom in on what matters most. From the mission fields of Texas to his current work as a father, husband, and documentary filmmaker, Nick reveals how the Master Director has used every single frame of his life to develop deep empathy and capture stories that inspire.

  2. Jun 9

    James Connolly: The Small and Simple Things that Changed Everything

    In the Season 2 premiere of Finding Our Way, James Connolly shares how a series of small and simple decisions led to some of the most meaningful changes in his life. From his search for truth and purpose to his journey of faith and eventual membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, James reflects on the experiences, relationships, and commitments that shaped his path. He discusses how seemingly small choices—including changing long-established habits—became important steps toward a life centered on faith, family, and personal growth. This conversation is a reminder that lasting change rarely happens overnight. More often, it comes through consistent actions, quiet faith, and the courage to take the next step.

  3. Jan 18

    Micali Peless : Called to Serve in Juiz do Foro Brazil

    In this episode of Finding Our Way: Stories of Faith and Resilience, we are joined by Micali Peless, a 19-year-old from Michigan who is preparing to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Juiz de Fora, Brazil. Micali opens up about her journey from growing up in a faith-filled home to developing her own independent testimony. We discuss the exciting (and nerve-wracking) process of preparing for a mission, from medical exams to learning Portuguese on Duolingo. Micali also shares her advice for other youth on building trust in God through the "little things" and reveals her hidden talent for solving Rubik's cubes. Join us for an uplifting conversation about the optimism and dedication of the rising generation.

  4. Jan 18

    Jenny Lowe: Orchestrating Impact

    In this episode of Finding Our Way: Stories of Faith and Resilience, we sit down with Jenny Lowe—a powerhouse community leader, mother of five, vocal coach, and theater director based in Midland, Michigan. Jenny shares her dynamic journey, from growing up as an only child in Holt, Michigan, to becoming a driving force in the local arts scene. We discuss how music became the heartbeat of her life through her grandparents' influence, her path to forging an unshakable testimony as a teenager, and the charming story of meeting her husband (who won her over while carrying groceries!). Jenny also gets real about the hustle of raising five children with a twenty-year age gap and how she redefined her purpose—realizing her true calling wasn't just inside the church, but leading out in the community. Join us for an empowering conversation about owning your talents, building resilience, and serving with passion.

  5. Jan 18

    Bethany Broderick : Making Time for God

    In this episode of Finding Our Way: Stories of Faith and Resilience, we sit down with Bethany Broderick—a wife, mother, teacher, and former missionary currently living in Midland, Michigan. Bethany takes us through her journey from growing up in a gospel-centered home in Oregon to serving a mission in Uruguay, and how she navigates the busy life of raising four children today. We discuss the pivotal moments that shaped her testimony, from "rebellious" teenage years to finding peace through repentance. Bethany also clears the air about her "cliff jumping" adventures (it was actually rappelling!) and shares touching stories about her work teaching English as a second language. Join us for an inspiring conversation about making God a priority amidst the chaos of daily life.

  6. 12/01/2025 ·  Bonus

    Light the World! "Special Edition"

    In this special edition of Finding Our Way: Stories of Faith and Resilience, we sit down with Jessica Larsen, the Stake Communications Director for the Midland Michigan Stake. Jessica shares the exciting details regarding the 2025 "Light the World" initiative in the Great Lakes Bay Region. This year brings a shift from the traditional "Giving Machines" to a wholistic "Giving Experience" located at the Midland Mall. We discuss how the community is coming together through a month-long music festival—featuring everything from choirs to "Just Trombones"—and how you can support four incredible local non-profits. We also cover the beloved 29th Annual Nativity Exhibit and the various ways you can volunteer your time and talents this Christmas season. Featured Non-Profits: Reece’s Endeavor: Housing for disabled adults. Aaron’s Gifts from Home: Care packages for soldiers overseas. The Children’s Grief Center: Grief support and resources for children. Isabella County Restoration House: Homeless shelter in Mt. Pleasant. Key Dates: Dec 1: Calendar release for small acts of service. Dec 2: Launch Party at Midland Mall (6:00 PM). Dec 2–23: Music Festival at Midland Mall. Dec 5–7: 29th Annual Nativity Exhibit at the Stake Center. Dec 20: Kids Day at the Mall (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM). Connect & Volunteer: Website: www,MidlandNativity.org Social: Look for "Light the World Great Lakes Bay" on Facebook and Instagram.

  7. 10/24/2025

    Seth Boss: Answering the Call

    Join us for a fantastic conversation with Seth Boss, a recently returned missionary from Saginaw, Michigan, who just got engaged! (and now married since this episode was recorded) Seth shares what it was like growing up in a large family (as one of eight boys) and how he always felt an expectation to serve a mission, though he hadn't yet developed his own personal testimony. Seth opens up about his personal faith journey, including the pivotal moment he finally decided to serve and the specific, powerful spiritual experience he had at the Missionary Training Center (MTC) that solidified his faith. He discusses the unique experience of starting his MTC training at home before heading to Arizona, the cultural barriers he faced, and the one piece of advice he wishes he'd known before he left. This episode is a powerful story of personal conversion, overcoming doubt, and the joy that comes from taking a leap of faith.

  8. 10/24/2025

    Alan Withers: Service, Foster Care and a Healthcare Ministry

    Join us for an inspiring discussion with Alan Withers, a business owner, father, and disciple from West Branch, Michigan, who views his physical therapy practice as a healthcare ministry. Alan shares his unique journey from growing up in Canada to serving a mission in Portugal, Cape Verde, and the United States. He opens up about how he and his wife, Carrie, expanded their family through adoption, which became a transformative experience that led his wife to start a charity supporting children in foster care. Alan discusses pivotal moments in his career that set a firm foundation of faith for his business. He emphasizes that discipleship is about recognizing that suffering is part of the mortal experience and that our faith should propel us to be a doer and serve others. This episode is a powerful testament to the impact of intentional, faith-driven action in both family and professional life.

  9. 10/24/2025

    Michael Wechter: 88 Keys to Faith

    Join us for a fascinating conversation with Michael Wechter, a gifted pianist, composer, husband, and father from Saginaw, Michigan. Michael shares his unique upbringing as one of ten children, and how his path led him from studying piano at Arizona State to a transformative six-month road trip where he and his wife lived out of their van, funding their journey by playing a piano on wheels in public squares and beaches. Michael opens up about his own faith journey, describing how he wrestled with questions and stepped away from the gospel before a pivotal moment of personal searching brought him back. He discusses how fatherhood has deepened his understanding of God, the joy he finds in accompanying choirs, and his philosophy on using music to serve others—from baseball stadiums to nursing homes. This episode is a powerful story of finding your own testimony and using your unique talents to connect with God and community.

  10. 10/24/2025

    Heather Savage: The Power of Hugs and Humility

    Join us for an uplifting conversation with Heather Savage, a dedicated preschool teacher, wife, and mother of a large, loving family from the Midland Michigan Stake. In this episode of Finding Our Way, Heather shares her unique journey, starting with her life as a high school athlete in California, an unexpected path to BYU, and the surprising way she met her husband, Sasha (in a love story that rivals a movie script!). Heather discusses the pivotal moment that solidified her personal testimony while in college and how the "many rays of light" throughout her life continually deepen her faith. She shares beautiful insights on the power of committed marriage, the importance of finding common ground, and how her gospel conviction translates into her professional life—including her signature move of greeting every preschooler and soccer player with a genuine, loving interaction. Listen in as Heather shares her passion for life, her insights on raising children, and her personal scriptural anchor in the face of life's biggest surprises.

  • 10 Episodes

About

Join us as we share authentic conversations with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and our friends and neighbors. This is a space to connect through the challenges and triumphs of life as we explore personal stories about faith and growth. Each episode, we’ll bring you diverse experiences from the Midland Michigan Stake and across our communities—all with the goal of building unity and offering hope to everyone navigating their own unique journey. So, let's find our way together.

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