Leading Saints Podcast Leading Saints

Garret Shields has a bachelor’s degree in History and a master’s degree in Religious Education, and is currently working on a Ph.D. in History, researching issues and questions related to race and the priesthood in Brazil. He works in the Church Educational System as a Seminary teacher. Garret served in the Brazil Rio de Janeiro Mission and has since served in many callings in the Church including ward mission leader, high councilor, elders quorum president, bishopric counselor, Sunday School president, and nursery leader. He currently serves as a priest quorum advisor. Garret lives in Spanish Fork, Utah, with his wife and four energetic, adorable, and amazing children.



Monica Fell has worked as a registered nurse for almost 20 years, where she has had the privilege of loving and serving in many capacities from hospital settings to home health and hospice, and working with struggling youth in group homes. At church, Monica has also served in many callings, including nursery leader, librarian, Relief Society counselor, girls camp director, Primary president, Young Women president, and currently as a Young Women 1st counselor. She served as a "teaching advisor" while Garret was Sunday School president in their ward, working alongside the presidency to support teaching both in the home and at church. Monica is a single empty nester who calls Spanish Fork home. She had the privilege of raising two boys and identical twin girls, is grateful for a son- and daughter-in-law she loves like her own, and can't believe how much fun it is to be a "Nana" of an adorable, spirited, 3-year-old granddaughter.

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Highlights

Recognizing that most gospel teaching at home and even at church in their ward was done by women, Garrett decided to include women in the Sunday School presidency. Monica, one of the teaching advisors in the presidency, highlights the success of their approach, especially in addressing the challenges faced by women in implementing Come Follow Me at home. The podcast delves into the structure of their meetings, the proactive nature of their leadership, and the emphasis on Teaching in the Savior's Way. The dynamic and collaborative nature of their presidency meetings fostered a strong bond among the members and led to better teaching in the ward as a whole.



00:03:06 - Garret's Background and Role as Sunday School President



00:07:40 - Monica's Perspective on Serving in the Sunday School Presidency



00:10:19 - Structure and Dynamics of the Sunday School Presidency



00:14:10 - Importance of Being a Difference Maker in Leadership



00:19:22 - Implementation of Teacher Council Meetings for Parents



00:25:13 - Emphasizing Christ-Centered Teaching



00:29:05 - Structure of Teacher Council Meetings for Parents and Teachers



00:34:11 - Importance of Building Relationships and Camaraderie in Leadership



00:36:38 - Proactive Approach to Leadership and Ministry



The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include a href="https://leadingsaints.

Paul McHardy was raised primarily in Columbus, Ohio, and moved to Utah to earn a bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism from Brigham Young University and eventually a master's degree in Professional Communication from Weber State University. Paul has managed multiple omni-channel marketing teams (SEO, PPC, email, social, and affiliates), and has experience with branding, market research, user experience, and product development. In 2021 he took the opportunity to specialize in search engine optimization by joining Church employment as the Head of Global SEO.



Paul currently lives in Eagle Mountain, Utah, with his wife, Aleta, and three young daughters. He loves athletics, collecting trinkets, music, and BYU sports. He has served in various callings over the years, but has spent most of his adult life as either a Sunday School teacher or in a Sunday School presidency, and currently serves in his stake Sunday School presidency.





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This conversation delves into the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) in ensuring accurate and positive information about The Church is easily accessible online. Paul explains how The Church's shift from using the term "Mormon" to has impacted their online visibility and search rankings. The conversation also explores the intricacies of local search optimization for Church buildings, including the transition from using the Angel Moroni icon to a cross icon on map listings. Paul details the challenges of managing phone numbers for Church listings and the efforts to improve data accuracy and visibility for local congregations. He also emphasizes the significance of engaging with online reviews and maintaining consistent and up-to-date information across various platforms to enhance The Church's online presence and accessibility for individuals seeking to connect with local congregations.



00:02:07 - Discussion on SEO and Church Communication

00:17:44 - Importance of Local Search Optimization for Chapels

00:22:02 - Various Platforms for Local Listings

00:28:03 - Transition from Angel Moroni to Cross Icon on Listings

00:35:18 - Importance of Reviews and Responses for Listings

00:40:55 - Integration of Meetinghouse Locator with Local Listings



The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, a href="https://leadingsaints.

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in November 2019.



Barbara Morgan Gardner is an associate professor of Church History and Doctrine at Brigham Young University, and the author of The Priesthood Power of Women. Her research interests focus primarily on women in religious leadership, international education, and religious pedagogy. She holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Foundations and a PhD in Instructional Psychology, and did post-doctoral work at Harvard University. Barbara was Institute director in Boston, Massachusetts, serving more than 100 universities and colleges in the area and acting as chaplain at Harvard and MIT. She continues to serve as the chaplain-at-large in higher education for The Church, and on the BYU Interfaith Outreach Council. She and her husband, Dustin Gardner, live in Highland, Utah.





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The Priesthood Power of Women: In the Temple, Church, and Family

Grounded Podcast with Barbara Morgan Gardner

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Highlights

05:40 - Why was the book written? To help women and men understand what priesthood is.

09:25 - Barbara realized that many members and leaders didn’t separate the hierarchical structure of the priesthood and the patriarchal structure of the priesthood. She wanted to help women to understand the prophet has been asking us to learn more about the priesthood.

10:00 - Barbara became more frustrated with women who are not interested in learning about the priesthood than those who are and who may even be unhappy.

11:45 - Is this information on the priesthood power of women new, or would someone historical like David O. McKay be aware of it?

13:00 - Are we shoehorning this doctrine into today’s culture because more women are asking questions?

14:45 - Russell M. Nelson has been asking women to study and know this doctrine.

16:50 - What is the difference between the hierarchical and patriarchal structure of the priesthood?

19:10 - Why don’t we talk about the patriarchal structure of the priesthood?

21:05 - Elder and Sister Renlund’s notions of Big Earth and Little Earth priesthood ties in

23:40 - What are priesthood keys and who holds priesthood keys?

28:50 - How are keys different relating to the hierarchical and patriarchal priesthoods? Who is “in charge” in a family? What does presiding mean in a family vs the church structure? Who has keys in a temple? In a mission?

38:55 - What does it mean that keys will be revealed?

39:20 - General priesthood keys vs keys of presiding

41:15 - What priesthood keys do women have?

43:10 - What can a key holder do in a ward to highlight and enable the priesthood power and authority of women?

48:20 - List of questions that are found in the book

49:30 - Who outranks whom when men and women have disagreements at church?

50:35 - Someone has to preside, right?

53:00 - One way priesthood holders diminish authority of women in their homes

55:00 - How can we better understand and improve the revelatory process of submitting names for callings?

1:02:10 - Women of this time have been prophesied about

1:03:00 - It’s never a competition. Men can do more in partnership with women to save souls than they could alone.

Marla and Nate Christensen are an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, respectively, working under the supervision of Tony Overbay, LMFT. They work in a private practice setting in Rocklin, California, and share various mental health topics on their podcast "Working Change". Marla and Nate have been married for five years and have a blended family of seven children ranging in age from 25 to four years old.



Marla has a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. She often works with couples, individuals, and teens. Her primary areas of focus are grief, betrayal, codependency, and life adjustments. Marla is in the Primary presidency in her ward and loves working with young people. She has served in Relief Society and Primary presidencies and taught in Sunday School, Primary, and Relief Society.



Nate has a master’s degree in counseling from Northwestern University and works primarily with adult and teen individuals. He most enjoys working with people on issues he has worked on in his life, including anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, codependency, and immaturity. Nate has spent several years as the facilitator for his stake’s Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) group.





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In this podcast episode, Marla and Nate discuss the concepts of codependence and enmeshment in relationships, particularly in the context of addiction recovery. They emphasize the importance of being enmeshed with Christ rather than with other people, highlighting the need for individuals to focus on their relationship with the Savior for healing and support.



The discussion delves into the idea that the ARP is not just for addicts but can benefit anyone seeking to strengthen their connection with Jesus and find peace amidst chaos. Marla shares her personal journey of realizing the need to lean on Jesus rather than being overly dependent on her partner's actions or behaviors.



The couple reflects on the transformative power of surrendering to the Savior and finding solace in the midst of life's challenges. They also touch on the importance of maintaining individuality and self-care within relationships, even when faced with difficulties like addiction. Overall, the episode underscores the significance of seeking spiritual guidance and support in navigating personal struggles and relationships.



How Nate and Marla's Journeys Led to Becoming Therapists

00:03:31 - Nate's Background and Struggles with Mental Health

00:10:13 - Marla's Background and Transition to College

The Importance of the Addiction Recovery Program (ARP)

00:24:21 - The Benefits of the ARP Program for Both Addicts and Partners

00:25:02 - The Role of Spiritual Leaders in Supporting ARP Participation

Understanding Codependence and Enmeshment

00:33:35 - Exploring the Concept of Codependence and Enmeshment

00:37:31 - Applying the Principles of Surrender and Enmeshment with Christ

Navigating Relationships and Dependency

00:40:13 - Marla's Reflection on Codependency in Past Relationships

00:41:45 - Marla's Shift in Perspective Towards Nate's Struggles



The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day S...

Emma Smith's previous church callings include serving in the nursery, Primary, Relief Society, and as a Young Women president. She currently serves as the second counselor in the Thames Valley Stake Young Women. Emma has a degree in Acting and Performing Arts, and works in infant, primary, and secondary schools delivering mental health, anti-bullying, and resilience drama workshops for a theatre company. She is a parton for the Child Bereavement UK charity, and most grateful for being a mother and raising her 9- and 14-year-old sons.





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Emma shares her experiences and insights on leadership in her local Young Women organizations. She emphasizes the importance of pondering and praying for the young women she served, taking time to understand their needs and interests.



Emma also highlights the significance of building relationships with the youth and recognizing their talents to create meaningful connections. She recounts a touching story where the young women surprised her with cards of love and support during a vulnerable moment, showcasing the reciprocal nature of service and love in leadership roles.



Throughout the interview, Emma reflects on how her time as a leader has taught her patience, love, and the value of serving others. Her journey as a leader in the Young Women organization exemplifies the transformative power of service, connection, and faith in leadership roles within the Church.



00:02:53 - Background and Experience in the Church



00:05:08 - Serving in the Young Women Organization



00:10:36 - Activities and Events for Youth



00:15:39 - Importance of Pondering and Praying for Youth



00:18:31 - Engaging Youth through Vision Boards



00:22:00 - Sunday Meeting Approaches



00:23:36 - Giving Time to Study and Pray



00:24:07 - Personal Story of Vulnerability and Support



00:28:01 - Reflection on Leadership Experience and Personal Growth



The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, a href="https://leadingsaints.

Larry Richman retired in 2022 after working as a Church employee for 45 years. He was a project and product manager for many of the Church’s programs, such as Sunday and weekday programs for adults, youth, and children as well as leader training and tools. He was the director of LDS.org and the Church’s social media efforts from 2003–2008.



Larry has authored over a dozen books and thousands of articles in magazines and websites. As an entrepreneur, he has started several businesses and provided leadership training and consulting for several companies. He has also served as CEO and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for non-profit organizations. From 2022–2023, Larry served a full-time mission as the executive secretary for the Africa South Area Presidency.





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LDS365.com

Senior Missionary Opportunities

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Highlights

Larry shares insights into his career working behind the scenes at the Church and collaborating with general authorities. He discusses the balance between following the handbook and allowing for flexibility in leadership roles. Larry also highlights the importance of utilizing resources like the Life Help section, Gospel Topics, and My Calling in the Gospel Library app. He emphasizes the principle-based approach in the current handbook and the For the Strength of Youth guide, focusing on teaching doctrine and letting individuals govern themselves. Larry also touches on his experience running the LDS 365 blog and the importance of staying updated on handbook revisions. He shares his recent mission experience in South Africa and working with the area presidency. Larry's insights provide valuable perspectives on leadership and resources within church structure.



2:20 Larry Richman's career in the church. He has worked in the materials management, translation, and curriculum departments.



5:50 Larry retired and went on a mission to South Africa with his wife. Now he is a church service missionary.



6:20 There are so many more opportunities for senior missionaries and service missionaries than people know. There are so many different ways to serve and you can do it before you retire. You can serve from home in hundreds of different ways.



8:05 When Larry was in graduate school for instructional science, he was offered a full time position with the church. He helped the church implement different projects.



9:00 Behind the scenes of the church’s programs and the curriculum that comes out. Working with General Authorities.



12:30 Reworking programs that have gone stale. Employees study it out and come up with recommendations and take them to the brethren, who discuss and pray about it.



17:00 Working with general authorities and all the different councils in the church.



21:00 Meetings with general authorities. Balancing and structuring a meeting so that the spirit can speak and you address what you need to address.



24:00 How they implement Church Initiatives.



26:50 Implementation of new technology: blogs, websites, social media. The Lord moves his work forward with technology.



30:31 Larry has a blog called LDS 365.