Sunshine in the Middle

Michelle McCullough
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SPIRITUALITY

Challenge and happiness can coexist when you're looking for sunshine in the middle of life's dark places. Join me as we have conversations about joy, faith, and so much more! There's a lot going on in the world! Come refill your cup so that you can be the light that God needs you to be! PS Sunshine is my middle name.

  1. 12/22/2025

    28. Choosing Covenant Confidence & Wholeness in Hard Seasons

    In this episode of Sunshine in the Middle, I share some reflections on Camille Johnson's talk Spiritually Whole in Him. I've been pondering how I can be spiritually whole, even when I am not physically or emotionally whole. I talk about the power of choosing faith, how integrity connects with wholeness, and why covenant confidence matters so much as we prepare for the Savior's return. I also share stories of women who have strengthened my testimony of what it looks like to remain spiritually whole in the middle of hard challenges. My hope is that this conversation helps you find strength, hope, and joy in Christ as you walk your own path of discipleship. Time Stamps:   00:36 Exploring Spiritual Wholeness 02:27 Choosing Wholeness Through Faith 07:06 The Power of Integrity 08:58 The Parable of the Ten Virgins 11:53 Covenant Confidence and Spiritual Wholeness 14:19 Finding Joy Amidst Challenges 18:55 Final Thoughts and Testimonies 20:21 Closing Remarks and Call to Action   If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "Sunshine in the Middle" and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring uplifting and meaningful content. Join our community and share your thoughts on today's topic—how do you strive to continually become like Jesus Christ? Connect with Us Website: sunshineinthemiddle.com Instagram: @sunshineinthemiddle  This podcast episode is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Thank you for tuning in!

    21 min

  2. 10/04/2025

    27. Trusting God in the Waiting: Finding Peace When Life Hits Pause

    Have you ever felt like life suddenly hit pause and left you wondering what's next? In this episode of Sunshine in the Middle, I share a story from Paris where a random stoplight reminded me that sometimes God's delays are really His protection. I open up about some of the hardest seasons of my life—divorce, infertility, loss, NICU challenges, and the unexpected trials of 2020—and how learning to trust God's timing has helped me find peace and joy, even when heaven felt silent. In this episode, you'll hear: How God uses "red lights" to protect and prepare us Why joy and trust go hand in hand Scriptures and quotes from prophets and apostles that anchor me in faith How trusting Him, even when I don't understand, has made my life richer If you've ever felt stuck at a stoplight in life, I hope this conversation encourages you to lean into trust and see how God is working in your favor—even in the waiting. 00:36 Travel Tales: From Paris to the French Countryside 02:20 Life's Unexpected Stoplights 04:11 Trusting in Heavenly Father's Plan 06:32 Personal Stories of Trust and Faith 07:40 Finding Sunshine in Challenges 08:52 A Call to Trust and Pray   If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "Sunshine in the Middle" and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring uplifting and meaningful content. Join our community and share your thoughts on today's topic—how do you strive to continually become like Jesus Christ? Connect with Us Website: sunshineinthemiddle.com Instagram: @sunshineinthemiddle This podcast episode is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Thank you for tuning in! I hope this episode brings you closer to finding the peace and relief that Jesus Christ offers.

    12 min

  3. 09/05/2025

    26. Room for Revelation

    Have you ever felt like heaven was quiet? I have too. In this episode of Sunshine in the Middle, I open up about what it means to make room for personal revelation—especially in a world that constantly pulls at our time and attention. From a playroom full of toys to a kitchen chair where I work and study, I've learned that any space can become holy when we dedicate it to connecting with God. I talk about how the Spirit led me to study spiritual gifts for an entire year, how laundry time became sacred for a friend, and how acting on even the smallest promptings can change everything. I also share quotes from President Nelson and other leaders that inspire me to stay faithful, especially when answers don't come right away. If you've ever felt stretched thin or unsure how to receive divine direction, I hope this episode helps you pause, reflect, and ask: Where can I find God in my life right now? Time Stamps: 01:45 – Why Revelation Matters Now More Than Ever 03:55 – Sheri Dew's Revelation Room 06:20 – Space and Time Over Perfection 08:35 – My 2019 Word of the Year: Spiritual Gifts 12:35 – Sticky Notes in the Playroom 15:48 – Sacred Spaces in Everyday Rooms 18:42 – How to Claim Space for Revelation 21:10 – Revelation Over Laundry 23:15 – Why I Started Recording Revelation 26:18 – Remembering What God Has Done 28:40 – Busyness Blocks Revelation 30:25 – Making Time, Even Without Immediate Answers 32:10 – Letting Go to Hear Him Better 34:50 – The Effort Revelation Requires 37:40 – Mopping Floors and Small Promptings 39:30 – Building Trust with God Through Action 41:05 – Living in Daily Revelation 42:50 – My Testimony on Revelation 44:10 – Final Challenge & Reflection If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "Sunshine in the Middle" and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring uplifting and meaningful content. CONNECT WITH US Website: sunshineinthemiddle.com Instagram: @sunshineinthemiddle Disclaimer This podcast episode is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or BYU. Thank you for tuning in!

    28 min

  4. 05/07/2025

    25. How a Simple YW Camp Hike Became a Witness of Christ's Atonement

    Episode Overview   What if your heaviest struggles could become sacred reminders of Christ's love? In today's episode of Sunshine in the Middle, I share a deeply personal story that taught me a powerful lesson about the Atonement of Jesus Christ. When I was serving as a Young Women's president, we planned a camp hike that turned into a sacred, unforgettable experience centered on Christ's ability to carry our burdens. I'll walk you through how a simple idea with rocks turned into a powerful, spirit-filled lesson—and how it ultimately changed me. Along the way, I'll share scriptures that have anchored me, moments when I pleaded for help, and the tender mercies I received that reminded me He truly carries us. This isn't just a story, it's my testimony—one I hope will help you see the Savior in your life, too.  Thanks for listening! I'm truly honored. Mentioned Scriptures: Mosiah 24:14-15 Matthew 11:30 Alma 7:11-13 Timestamps:  00:00 Welcome to Sunshine in the Middle 00:36 A Memorable Camp Experience 01:56 The Rock Lesson and Personal Sacrifice 03:48 Spiritual Insights and Scriptural References 05:55 The Burden of Rocks and the Atonement 09:38 Reflections on Faith and Happiness 12:48 Navigating Modern Challenges with Faith 14:03 Final Thoughts and Invitation Again, thank you! I hope today's episode helped you feel closer to the peace and comfort that only Jesus Christ can provide. For more inspiration and faith-filled encouragement, visit sunshineinthemiddle.com and follow along on Instagram @sunshineinthemiddle. If this episode lifted your spirit, please consider subscribing and sharing with a friend and I'll never turn away a review — it's the best way to help others find a little more sunshine in their lives too! Disclaimer This podcast episode is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

    15 min

  5. 04/24/2025

    24. Seeing the Savior Through His Servants: My Study of President Oaks

    Episode Summary:  In this episode of Sunshine in the Middle, I'm diving deep into something I've been quietly doing behind the scenes for the last 18 months—studying the words of President Dallin H. Oaks, one talk at a time. If you've ever felt like his tone is more stern than tender, you're not alone. I've been there too. But what I found as I listened, studied, and prayed was something unexpected—love, depth, and unwavering commitment to the words of the Savior. Key Points and Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to Sunshine in the Middle 00:28 Discovering President Dallin H. Oaks 02:19 Lessons from President Oaks' Talks - Success Principles Woven Through Gospel Truths 06:38 Why Every Testimony Matters - Especially Yours  10:09 Personal Revelation and the Holy Ghost 11:31 Be of Good Cheer 12:30 Powerful Ideas and Success Principles 15:54 The Power of the Sacrament and Sabbath Observance 18:35 Opposition in All Things - From Joseph Smith to Your Own Life 22:33 Final Thoughts and Gratitude And yes, we'll talk about spiritual gifts, personal revelation, and why being of good cheer is more than a nice idea—it's a commandment. Whether you are doing your own study of the apostles or just looking for a spiritual reset, I hope this episode helps you feel closer to the Savior and the leaders who testify of Him.  If it lifts you, share it. Sunshine is best when it spreads. Resources and Mentioned Scriptures: D&C 1:38 D&C 46 John 15:26 2 Nephi 31 3 Nephi 28:11  Dallin H. Oaks: Testimony Dallin H. Oaks: Two Lines of Communication Dallin H. Oaks: Be of Good Cheer Dallin H. Oaks: Powerful Ideas Dallin H. Oaks: Opposition in All Things Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode brings you closer to finding the peace and relief that Jesus Christ offers. I invite you to visit sunshineinthemiddle.com and follow me on Instagram at @sunshineinthemiddle for more inspiring faith-filled content. If you liked this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a five star review! Disclaimer This podcast episode is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

    25 min

  6. 03/13/2025

    23. Embracing Imperfection - Called to the Work

    Episode Overview Have you ever felt like your imperfections disqualify you from making a difference? Like no matter how hard you try, you're just not "good enough" to do what God has called you to do? Trust me, you're not alone. In this podcast, we're diving into how happiness and hardship can coexist. I'll be sharing personal stories about faith, lessons from the Doctrine and Covenants, and what I've learned from both my own struggles and the experiences of Joseph Smith. Let's be real—none of us are perfect. We all need a Savior, and that's the beauty of it. Together, we'll talk about repentance, humility, and growth, and how we can embrace our flaws while still showing up and serving in our homes, communities, and church callings. If you've ever wondered whether you're still chosen and called to do good work—even in your imperfections—this conversation is for you. I hope you'll tune in! Talks Mentioned: Five Messages That All of God's Children Need to Hear by Dieter F. Uchtdorf Lord, I Believe by Jeffrey R. Holland Time Stamps 00:00 Welcome to Sunshine in the Middle 00:37 Personal Journey and the Doctrine and Covenants 01:33 Understanding Joseph Smith's Trials 03:12 Lessons from Doctrine and Covenants 3 04:22 The Tender Voice of the Lord 05:04 Called to the Work Despite Imperfections 08:38 The Importance of Hearkening 10:06 Perfection in Christ 14:04 Final Reflections and Encouragement 14:58 Closing Remarks and Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "Sunshine in the Middle" and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring uplifting and meaningful content.  Connect with Us Website: sunshineinthemiddle.com Instagram: @sunshineinthemiddle Disclaimer This podcast episode is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Thank you for tuning in! I hope this episode brings you closer to finding the peace and relief that Jesus Christ offers.

    16 min

  7. 12/18/2024

    22. Discovering and Utilizing Your Spiritual Gifts

    Episode Summary  In today's episode, I'm talking about one of my favorite topics and that is, Spiritual Gifts. I share my thoughts on what they are, why they're essential, and how you can discover and use yours to strengthen your connection with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Join me as I explain the significance of understanding and utilizing your unique spiritual traits.  Whether you're just beginning your spiritual exploration or looking to deepen your faith, this episode is filled with faith-based wisdom, inspiration, and encouragement to help you recognize and cherish the gifts that make you a divine individual.  Whether you've been struggling to identify your gifts or are curious about understanding them better, you'll walk away with actionable insights and encouragement.   Key Points and Timestamps  00:00 Introduction to Sunshine in the Middle 00:36 Personal Stories and Unique Traits 01:11 Lessons from Parents 03:32 Spiritual Gifts and Their Importance 16:48 Invitation to Seek Your Spiritual Gifts 22:25 Encouragement for Youth and Others 25:03 The Gift of Faith 28:19 Final Thoughts and Testimony   Resources and Mentioned Scriptures  1 Corinthians 12:31 2 Peter 1:4  Moroni 10 Tadd R. Callister: The Atonement of Jesus Christ Gary E. Stevenson: Promptings of the Spirit President Russell M. Nelson: Spiritual Treasures Marvin J. Ashton: There are Many Gifts President Thomas S Monson: The Call to Serve Feeling inspired to learn more about your own spiritual gifts? Take time this week to pray, ponder, and study about your unique traits and how they can bring you closer to God. Share your reflections with your loved ones or your church community.  Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode brings you closer to finding the peace and relief that Jesus Christ offers. I invite you to visit sunshineinthemiddle.com and follow me on Instagram at @sunshineinthemiddle for more inspiring faith-filled content. If you liked this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a five star review!

    30 min

  8. 11/07/2024

    21. The Power of Persistent Prayer

    Episode Overview: Today we're talking about the significance of persistent prayer and seeking divine guidance. In this episode, I discuss the topics of prayer, fasting, and temple attendance, and the importance of recognizing our relationship with God as a loving Father. Join me as I share my thoughts on the necessity for humility, submission, and patience while seeking blessings while learning how turning to the scriptures can lead to deeper insights and understanding, especially when faced with trials and uncertainty.    Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 00:36 Sunday School Experience 02:36 Testimony of Prayer 07:00 Scriptural Guidance on Prayer 15:47 Challenging the Adversary 16:56 Faith in God's Timing 19:24 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement   Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode brings you closer to finding the peace and relief that Jesus Christ offers. I invite you to visit sunshineinthemiddle.com and follow me on Instagram at @sunshineinthemiddle for more inspiring faith-filled content. If you liked this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a five star review!

    20 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Challenge and happiness can coexist when you're looking for sunshine in the middle of life's dark places. Join me as we have conversations about joy, faith, and so much more! There's a lot going on in the world! Come refill your cup so that you can be the light that God needs you to be! PS Sunshine is my middle name.

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle McCullough
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Sunshine in the Middle