Leading Saints Podcast

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What Do Men Need From Elders Quorum? | An Interview with Mark Bell Mar 01, 2025

Show notes

Mark Bell has over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and has trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Mark specializes in helping couples navigate relational and emotional intimacy challenges and much of his work is with men struggling with sexually compulsive behaviors, along with their loved ones affected by those behaviors. He focuses on healthy connections with ourselves, our God, and others in healing. Mark holds a graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern Mississippi and an undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University, and works at the Arizona Family Institute (AFI) where he is also the clinical director. In the Church he has served as a missionary in the Chile, Santiago North mission, a Young Men advisor, Sunday School youth teacher, high priest group leader, scoutmaster, ward clerk, elders quorum counselor, and three times as a bishopric counselor. Mark and his wife Dyan have been married 22 years and have five sons. Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Links Arizona Family Institute Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Mark Bell shares his insights on the current state of men's mental health, noting a concerning epidemic of undiagnosed depression among men, which often goes unrecognized due to societal expectations that discourage vulnerability. He explains how men frequently resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as pornography, as a means of escaping deeper emotional struggles. The discussion touches on the stigma surrounding these behaviors and the need for men to connect with one another in meaningful ways. Bell advocates for the creation of supportive environments, such as small group settings within church activities, where men can openly share their experiences and challenges without fear of judgment. The episode also explores the significance of recreational activities in fostering connections among men, suggesting that engaging in shared experiences can lead to deeper bonds and healthier emotional outlets. Bell emphasizes the necessity of creating spaces where men can be both playful and serious, allowing them to express their true selves, and offers practical advice for church leaders—particularly elders quorum presidents—on how to facilitate genuine connections among members, encouraging vulnerability and open dialogue. The conversation is a call to action for men in elders quorum to seek connection and support, ultimately promoting better mental health and stronger relationships within their communities. 02:30 - Men's Mental Health Epidemic 04:00 - Undiagnosed Depression in Men 05:30 - The Link Between Depression and Suicide 07:00 - Challenges of Masculinity 09:00 - Compartmentalization of Men's Emotions 10:30 - Hidden Depression in Men 12:00 - Pornography as a Symptom 13:30 - The Need for Healthy Coping Mechanisms 15:00 - Stigma Around Men's Behaviors 16:30 - The Importance of Connection Among Men 18:00 - Creating Safe Spaces for Men 19:30 - The Fist of Five Concept 21:00 - The Role of Group Therapy 22:30 - Building Connection in Elders Quorum 24:00 - The Power of Vulnerability 25:30 - Check-Ins as a Tool for Connection 27:00 - The Importance of Confidentiality 28:30 - Designing Connection Therapy in Elders Quorum 30:00 - Effective Check-In Strategies 31:30 - The Value of Recreation and Play 33:00 - Low Maintenance Needs of Men 34:30 - Balancing Doctrine and Connection The award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

When Church is a Burden | An Interview with Andrea Lystrup Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in July 2021. Andrea Lystrup is a licensed marriage and family therapist and owns a private practice—Andrea Lystrup Therapy—in Tucson, Arizona. She received her master’s degree from the University of Maryland in Couple and Family Therapy. She specializes in marriage therapy, particularly working with sexual issues, betrayal trauma, and mixed faith marriages. She has served as the stake sister support specialist for the Tucson stake, providing training to stake leaders on issues like abuse prevention and recognition of mental health struggles, as well as to advocate for sisters who need support addressing abuse in their own life. She has also served in her ward Young Women program. Andrea is mom to three boys and supports her husband in his career as a doctor in the Air Force. Links AndreaLystrup.com Instagram: @dancingfordesire Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 3:00 In Andrea's practice she meets many people who report they are feeling “spiritually worn-out”. This may happen because of mental health challenges, life struggles, a faith crisis or something else. Often they feel like they aren’t getting the same answers to prayer as others, and they wonder if there’s something wrong with themselves or everyone else. 6:00 Andrea has watched people who have left the church and those who are struggling with returning after Covid and describe how challenging it is to want to go back. Church can be like a wrestling match when managing young children. It is easier to watch from home when we don’t need to worry about how our children may be affecting those around them. 9:30 Depression or anxiety may affect your ability to feel the spirit or share a testimony. Something you hear another share at church as a great spiritual experience or healing you have not received can be triggering and difficult to process, which can make it difficult to engage with church or members. This is one way you might feel spiritually worn out. 14:00 Sharing vulnerabilities may be one way to help members who are struggling with this type of spiritual exhaustion feel like they have a place to share and belong. We often share these vulnerabilities after they are resolved, but we don’t share struggles in real time while they are happening. This real time sharing can take more courage and ultimately may be more helpful to yourself and others as you are able to connect with others who are struggling. 17:30 Covid has exacerbated these feelings in some members, because depression and anxiety are fueled by loneliness and isolation. We should look out for the likely in our congregations to make them more welcoming places. Do less offering off a talk that will solve a problem and more inviting someone to lunch or to hang out. Remember they are “person(s) to be loved”. 19:10 People who are spiritually worn out often express feelings of being unlike others or punished by God. Others in a faith crisis may decide if the gospel equation is working for everyone else and not them, the problem is either with them or the system, and many reject the system all together and leave. Instruction like don’t rehearse your doubts with other doubters can discourage these individuals who are already feeling like they don’t believe our think the same as others from reaching out when they struggle. 24:30 One way to think of how spiritually-worn-out members engage is with a trauma model: fight, flight, or freeze. A freeze mentality might look like someone who attends church for years and years but not fully participating, reading scriptures, magnifying a calling, etc. There may be afraid of making things worse and so they just don’t engage. Some who “fly” leave, often suddenly. There are some fighters who may post on social media and leave in a blaze of angry posts and others may still engage and try to fix things from the inside by making edgy out challenging comments in meetings. 29:30 It is important to understand how people are raised. Some have a “don’t throw the baby out with the bath water” mentality and others are more scrupulous and rigid in a way that can cause them to react strongly when the gospel equation doesn’t work for them. These rigid thinkers are often the backbone of a unit—cleaning the church on Saturdays and showing up to every activity. We need their loyalty and willingness to work, and so we can validate their good ideas while helping them broaden their perspective, gently. 36:00 Suggesting a break to someone struggling with spiritual exhaustion may be necessary to help them process the reasons they attend church. Instead of asking what will someone miss if they quit, in some cases it may be helpful to say, “Hey, you’re clearly struggling with this. Have you thought about taking a break?” and let them think through the reasons they do or do not want to take a break, or why they feel they can’t. 38:40 Leaders sometimes make assignments when someone expresses feeling spiritually exhausted, and this may not help. People who have been engaged with church know what it means when someone they are not close — like a ministering bother or sister — to suddenly starts coming around. It can feel like box-checking. You can ask them if there is a meaningful way they can serve. Leaders should ask themselves why they are trying to keep someone attending. 42:00 Andrea shared a personal example regarding her bougainvillea plant that froze and all the leaves fell off. Sometimes a plant may need to be printed right to the ground to grow again after being damaged. A bougainvillea that has been damaged will die if it is overwatered. Overzealous leaders may unintentionally kill a member’s testimony by overwatering. 45:50 Leaders should be mindful of the power of right now. How can I connect with you or show love for you right now? Drop worrying about the future or fixing a problem. Connect. The award-winning 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, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Reaching the Hearts of Women Feb 22, 2025

Show notes

This podcast is a group discussion about the Heart of a Woman retreat, a 3-day intensive experience for women of faith. The retreat provides a space for women to connect with God, other women, and themselves. It includes presentations, time for reflection, and opportunities for prayer and worship. The guests discuss their own experiences with the retreat and how it has impacted their lives. They also share insights on the importance of women's leadership and the power of prayer. Melanie Meszaros is a wife, mother, grandmother, certified professional coach, business manager, and avid music lover. With a master’s in Education, Melanie has spent her adult life providing women and couples with opportunities to learn and develop skills to improve their lives, their relationships, and their families. As co-founder of Heart of a Woman, Melanie is passionate about helping women develop a profound connection with God, restore their feminine heart, and rediscover who God created them to be. In the Church she has enjoyed serving in music callings, as a teacher, as a counselor in each of the women's organizations, and as a ward and stake Relief Society president. Kristy Willhite was baptized as a child and chose the gospel of Jesus Christ as an adult. She served for 17 years in the Primary organization in every calling except chorister. Kristy has served in Relief Society presidencies, as a Young Women president, and currently serves in her stake Young Women presidency. She loves reading, knitting, and holds a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University-Idaho in Advanced Family History Professional Studies. Kristy and her husband James have been married 26 years and have four great kids. Jolene Duckworth attended the October 2024 Heart of a Woman retreat and found herself forever changed by the experience. She is the mother of six and serves as the chair of the hospitality committee for BYU's Women's Conference, and in the Church as a Relief Society service coordinator and a temple worker. Jolene has a bachelor's degree in Visual Arts from BYU and is the experience design director for Idylli, a leadership development company she runs with her husband, Dan Duckworth. Links TheHeartofaWoman.net (Use the code LEADMAY25 for a Leading Saints discount) 5 Easy Questions to Invite Anyone to Learn About the Gospel | An Interview with Murray Meszaros The Subtle Attack of Shame on Spirituality | An Interview with James Willhite Creating a Transformational Sunday School | An Interview with Dan Duckworth Warrior Heart Boot Camp Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Melanie, Christy, and Jolene, delve into the Heart of a Woman retreat, an interdenominational experience designed to foster deeper connections with God among women of faith. Melanie explains that the retreat offers a three-day immersive experience where women can unplug from the world, engage with the Word of God, and pray together in a supportive environment. The guests discuss the transformative power of the retreat, highlighting how it provides women with the opportunity to connect with God on a personal level. Jolene shares her own experience of attending the retreat, describing how it helped her recognize her worth and empowered her to pray with others, ultimately leading to meaningful connections and support for those in need. Throughout the episode, the group emphasizes the significance of identity in faith, particularly for women, and how the retreat helps participants understand their intrinsic worth as children of God. They discuss the challenges women face in leadership roles within the Church and how the retreat equips them with the confidence to embrace their unique gifts. The conversation also touches on the importance of interfaith experiences, the role of worship music, and the need for rest and renewal in spiritual practices. 05:30 - Purpose of the Heart of a Woman Retreat 06:50 - Interdenominational Nature of the Retreat 08:10 - Comparison to Men's Retreat Experience 09:30 - Importance of Adult Retreats in Faith 10:50 - Jolene's Experience at the Retreat 12:15 - Women Seeking Rest and Refreshment 13:30 - Individual Desires and God's Messages 15:00 - The Power of Prayer in Community 16:30 - The Importance of Silence and Reflection 18:10 - Worship Music and Its Impact 20:00 - Holy Envy and Embracing Other Faith Practices 22:00 - Identity and God's Love for Women 24:30 - Personal Stories of Transformation 26:00 - Leadership and Identity in the Church 28:30 - The Role of Women in Leadership 30:00 - The Power of Personal Encounters 32:00 - The Impact of the Retreat on Motherhood 34:00 - Nuts and Bolts of the Retreat Experience The award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

What Does a Church Leadership Training Meeting Look Like? | A How I Lead Interview with Matt Bardsley and Kimberly Perkins Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

Matt Bardsley grew up in Montana, and after a mission to New Jersey moved to Utah to go to school and has been there ever since. He has a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University in Sociology and a master’s degree from Utah State University in Education. He has been a seminary teacher for 19 years, 12 of those serving as a local faculty principal where he gets to train teachers. He is a former Young Men president, elders quorum president, ward mission leader, bishopric member, high councilor, and stake Young Men president, and currently serves as first counselor in his stake Young Men presidency.Kim Perkins is a coach with Accepted, passionate about guiding individuals on their journey to healing and fostering deep connections, and empowering them to unlock their true potential and lead fulfilling lives. Kim enjoys the great outdoors, hiking, volleyball, and embarking on exciting travel adventures with her husband and four children. She currently serves in her stake Young Women presidency. LinksAcceptedShare your thoughts in the Leading Saints communityTranscript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader LibraryTraining Materials3 Targets - Activity Planning PDF3-Month Planning Meetings PDFConnect it to Christ PDFCounseling Together PDFDelegation PDFMaking Announcements - Hype Squad PDFPair and Share PDFPresidency Meetings - Teeter Totter PDFSandbox PDFHighlightsThis dynamic discussion with Kim and Matt centers around the importance of mentorship and effective training for youth leaders. They share their experiences and insights on how to transform traditional youth leadership approaches into more impactful mentorship roles, and emphasize the significance of understanding one's purpose, identifying youth life goals, and fostering transformational relationships rather than merely filling time during weekly activities.Kim and Matt explain their approach to training, which includes quarterly sessions for all youth leaders and more targeted workshops for specific wards. They focus on practical skills such as effective communication, delegation, and connecting youth activities to the teachings of Jesus Christ. By observing and providing feedback in real time, they help leaders recognize their strengths and areas for improvement.05:31 - Kim's Experience in Youth Leadership06:26 - Matt's Background in Teaching Youth07:37 - Observations on Youth Programs08:35 - The Importance of Training in Leadership09:56 - Origin of Formal Training Approaches11:04 - Developing Effective Training Skills12:09 - Interactive and Experiential Training Methods13:48 - Training Audience and Frequency15:03 - Observing and Supporting Ward Leaders16:04 - Building Relationships with Leaders17:05 - Feedback and Reflection After Observations20:07 - Common Issues in Youth Leadership22:53 - The Importance of Delegation Skills24:55 - Coaching Others in Leadership Skills27:27 - Connecting Activities to the Savior29:25 - Practicing Skills in Training Sessions32:02 - Engaging Youth in Leadership Training35:10 - Summary of Effective Training PracticesThe award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

What I Learned from Traveling with an Apostle | An Interview with Parker Walbeck Feb 15, 2025

Show notes

Parker Walbeck shares his journey as a millennial content creator who aims to engage both younger and older audiences with gospel messages through short, impactful videos. He emphasizes the significance of sharing simple, foundational doctrines and the power of personal testimony, noting that even small acts of sharing can have a profound impact on friends and family. Parker is a filmmaker, social media expert, and creator of the "True Millennial" YouTube channel, where he shares his insights on using social media to share the gospel. He has worked with the Church to help improve their online presence, and speaks frequently at local church events, where he teaches others how to use these tools effectively. Links YouTube: @TrueMillennial Instagram: @true.millennials Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Parker recounts his experience working with Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles during a trip to the Philippines, where he documented the apostle's ministry and interactions with local members. He describes Elder Anderson's genuine care for individuals, his commitment to knowing names, and his reliance on the teachings of the living prophet. The episode also touches on the importance of humility and the simplicity of the gospel, as Parker reflects on how the apostles focus on basic doctrines rather than complex theological concepts. Additionally, Kurt and Parker discuss the potential for local church members to create content that shares their faith stories, suggesting that even small-scale initiatives, like ward podcasts, can foster community and strengthen testimonies. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to utilize their unique talents in service of the church, reinforcing the idea that everyone has a role to play in sharing the gospel. 04:07 - Overview of True Millennial Podcast 06:01 - Parker's Journey into Content Creation 10:02 - The Concept of True Millennials 11:41 - Sharing the Gospel on Social Media 17:10 - The Importance of Influence in Small Audiences 19:02 - Parker's Experience with Elder Anderson 25:26 - Insights from Traveling with an Apostle 29:18 - The Simplicity of Gospel Teachings 36:00 - Interviewing Elder Bednar 38:11 - Local Church Content Creation Ideas 41:00 - Engaging Stake Communication Strategies The award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Getting the Youth to Do Hard Things | A How I Lead Interview with Tanner Pursley Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

Tanner Pursley was born and raised in Thatcher, Arizona. He served his mission in Recife, Brasil, and graduated from BYU-Idaho where he married his sweetheart Nicole. He got his Masters Degree in School Counseling from Northern Arizona University. Tanner has over six years of EFY experience and another five working as a wrangler for troubled teenagers at Arivaca Boys Ranch. He currently is serving as the bishop in his ward in Morenci, Arizona, where he developed a youth program called "I Can Do Hard Things" to help drive kids off the couch and into living life and preparing for the temple/mission. Tanner's passions include rock climbing, scuba diving, playing Jenga with kids, losing to his bros in fantasy football, and cuddling his little daughter Cedar. Links I Can Do Hard Things Challenge (Packet) I Can Do Hard Things Challenge (Printable Booklet) Contact: Facebook, Instagram: @tanmanpursley73, or contact us and we'll forward your message Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Tanner shares insights from his recent initiative called the "I Can Do Hard Things Challenge." This program, developed while he served as a counselor in the bishopric, aims to provide youth with structured goals across the four quadrants in the Children and Youth program: spiritual, social, intellectual, and physical. Tanner explains how he drew inspiration from scouting and other youth programs to create a comprehensive list of activities that encourage youth to step outside their comfort zones and engage in meaningful experiences. Throughout the conversation, Tanner discusses the importance of parental buy-in and how the challenge has positively impacted the culture of his small ward, which previously struggled with youth engagement and missionary work. He highlights the success of the program, noting that it has led to increased participation among the youth and has even inspired similar initiatives in other organizations within the ward. The episode emphasizes the significance of celebrating achievements, as Tanner describes the award ceremony where participants receive recognition for their hard work, fostering a sense of community and accomplishment. Leadership is about empowering others to reach their potential, and Tanner's approach serves as a practical example for other leaders looking to inspire and uplift the youth in their wards. 05:48 - Tanner's Background and New Calling 06:59 - The "I Can Do Hard Things" Challenge 09:47 - Overview of the Youth Program and Goals 10:44 - Changing the Culture in the Ward 12:01 - Structure of the Challenge 20:49 - Breakdown of the Challenge Areas 25:07 - Physical Challenge Activities 27:51 - Social Challenge Activities 29:38 - Spiritual Challenge Activities 30:49 - Intellectual Challenge Activities 32:04 - Importance of Accountability 33:01 - Reward Ceremony and Recognition 34:27 - Encouraging Participation and Buy-In The award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Addicts Have a Savior and It Isn’t You | An Interview with Emily and Danny Deaton Feb 08, 2025

Show notes

Danny and Emily Deaton are the founders of Living Proof Recovery Services, a company dedicated to supporting individuals and families who are navigating addiction with a loved one. They carry degrees from rival schools, the University of Utah and Brigham Young University but found common ground in their love for Jesus and the Utah Jazz. They have built a life they love together in Alpine, Utah. They love being parents to three awesome children and have served as Stake Young Single Adult leaders and Emily as a Relief Society president. Danny and Emily host the “Your Living Proof Podcast” and love speaking and sharing their message of faith in action, hope, and their love for Jesus Christ. Links YourLivingProof.com Your Living Proof Podcast and YouTube Free masterclass Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Emily and Danny talk about the growing issues of addiction, highlighting the importance of being prepared to address these challenges and the need for resources and education. Danny recounts his experience with opioid addiction, detailing how it progressed from a seemingly manageable issue to a life-altering crisis that culminated in a near-fatal incident. He reflects on the pivotal moment when his father intervened, demonstrating the power of love and family support in the recovery process. Emily adds her perspective, emphasizing the time required for true healing and the transformative power of the Atonement in their lives. The couple discusses the importance of understanding addiction as a family disease, where the entire family unit must engage in the recovery process. They stress that addiction often manifests as a secretive struggle, and families typically wait too long—averaging seven years—before seeking professional help. The Deatons advocate for the role of interventionists and the necessity of establishing boundaries to support loved ones in their recovery journey. They also highlight the importance of church leaders in recognizing the signs of addiction and guiding families toward appropriate resources, such as support groups and professional help. Danny and Emily challenge the misconception that individuals must want to recover on their own before intervention can occur, arguing instead that families must take proactive steps to facilitate recovery. They discuss the need for families to learn about addiction, set boundaries, and seek help themselves, creating a supportive environment for their loved ones. Church leaders and families can utilize available resources and to understand that addiction is a complex issue that requires a collective effort for healing and recovery. 02:00 - Danny and Emily Deaton's Background 03:00 - Danny's Journey Through Addiction 06:00 - The Low Point of Addiction 08:00 - The Role of Family in Recovery 09:00 - The Power of the Atonement 10:00 - Transitioning to Recovery Services 12:00 - Understanding the Role of an Interventionist 13:00 - The Impact of COVID on Recovery Services 14:00 - Developing a Comprehensive Recovery Program 16:00 - The Importance of Family Support 18:00 - Recognizing the Signs of Addiction 19:00 - The Illusion of Control in Addiction 20:00 - The Need for Professional Help 22:00 - The Role of Agency in Addiction 24:00 - The Importance of Boundaries 26:00 - The Challenge of Helping Loved Ones 28:00 - The Statistics of Addiction 29:00 - The Underlying Issues of Addiction 30:00 - The Role of Church Leaders in Recovery 32:00 - The Disconnect Between Spiritual Guidance and Addiction 34:00 - The Need for Professional Intervention 36:00 - The Importance of Family Healing 37:00 - God’s Example of Boundaries 39:00 - The Role of Church Leaders in Addiction Recovery 41:00 - The Importance of Family Support Systems 42:00 - Resources Available for Families in Need The award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

“God Did Not Call You So He Can Deplete You” | A How I Lead Interview with Jodi Atkinson Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

Jodi Atkinson was born and raised in Utah, and has lived all over the state. She went to college at Utah Tech University in St. George, Utah, and graduated with an Associates Degree in Science. That was where she met and married her husband, Brian. She then took on her next greatest educational experience as the mother of five children. The family left Utah in 2011 and has since lived in Texas, Illinois, and in the Kansas City, Missouri area for the past seven years. Another adventure awaits, and they will be moving back to St. George this summer. Jodi is excited to go back to college and pursue a degree in Art. She has had many service opportunities within the Church that have enriched her life: Young Women president and advisor, youth Sunday School teacher, Young Women camp director, Primary counselor, Seminary teacher, and stake Young Women president. Jodi currently serves as an enthusiastic Primary teacher. Links Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Jodi emphasizes that youth should not be viewed as problems to be solved but as solutions, advocating for a collaborative approach where youth are actively involved in decision-making through councils. She reflects on her experience, highlighting the need for innovative thinking and adaptability in youth programs and stressing that relationships matter significantly in fostering a supportive environment. Jodi shares specific examples of how she engaged with youth, such as incorporating their ideas into activities like Young Womens camp and a trek, ensuring they felt heard and valued. Jodi also discusses the importance of ministering and being present in the lives of youth and leaders, which helped build trust and community within the stake, and shares the powerful principle that the Lord does not ask us to serve to deplete us or prove ourselves but to grow and strengthen our connections with Him and others. 05:04 - Jodi's Experience as Stake Young Womens President 05:45 - Unique Demographics of the Shawnee Stake 06:51 - Starting the Calling During COVID 10:40 - Embracing a Clean Slate Mentality 12:27 - The Importance of Youth Councils 16:16 - Letting Youth Lead in Activities 19:43 - Specific Examples of Youth Engagement 22:10 - Trek Experience and Youth Involvement 26:06 - Building Relationships with Youth Leaders 30:01 - Habits for Fostering Relationships 34:52 - The Lord's Purpose in Service 35:10 - Object Lesson on Leadership and Service The award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

A Valid Path for LGBTQ Latter-day Saints | An Interview with Skyler Sorensen Feb 01, 2025

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Skyler Sorensen grew up in St. George, Utah as the fourth of eight children. He is an active Latter-day Saint who experiences same-sex attraction. He and his wife, Amanda, were married in the Provo, Utah temple in 2018. He graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s in Media Arts and currently works with the team at Scripture Central. Skyler started the podcast “Sit Down with Sky”, which has recently morphed into a YouTube series. The series is dedicated to finding and maintaining eternal truths in the conversation around LGBTQ issues. Skyler is also the author of Exclude Not Thyself: Thriving as a Covenant-Keeping, Gay Latter-day Saint, aimed at providing a faith-affirming approach to LGBTQ issues. Skyler and Amanda have three children. Their first son, Milo, was born at 24½ weeks, and after a few weeks of battling for his life in newborn intensive care, he passed away in Amanda's arms. They have two living daughters, Remi and Lainey, both under the age of three. Skyler's current church calling is Gospel Doctrine teacher. Links Exclude Not Thyself: Thriving as a Covenant-Keeping Gay Latter-Day Saint Sit Down with Sky Connect with Skyler Scripture Central North Star Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Skyler shares his personal journey as a gay Latter-day Saint, detailing his experiences with same-sex attraction, his decision to marry a woman in the temple, and the fulfillment he finds in his family life. Skyler shares his perspective on the labels of identity, expressing a desire to prioritize his core identity as a disciple of Jesus Christ over societal labels. Kurt and Skyler talk about the tension church leaders face when discussing doctrines related to the eternal family, emphasizing the need for compassion while upholding the ideal of eternal marriage. Skyler highlights the importance of understanding doctrine in a way that fosters genuine relationships, even amidst disagreements about lifestyle choices. The discussion also touches on the significance of therapy and the value of seeking resources that align with one's faith. Both Kurt and Skyler stress the importance of maintaining hope and connection, advocating for a balanced approach that recognizes the complexities of faith and identity. 02:40 - Skyler's Journey with Same-Sex Attraction 06:00 - Navigating Identity and Labels 08:04 - The Importance of Open Communication in Relationships 09:53 - Early Experiences with Church Leaders 11:09 - Balancing Temptation and Faith 12:16 - The Role of Church Leaders in Discussing Marriage 16:14 - The Ideal of Eternal Marriage 17:26 - Addressing Criticism of Mixed Orientation Marriages 18:12 - The Importance of Seeking Validation from God 19:02 - The Desire to Share a Valid Path for LGBTQ Latter-day Saints 20:16 - The Tension Between Faith and Family 22:10 - Maintaining Relationships Amidst Differences 24:00 - Resources for Families and Individuals 29:19 - The Role of Therapy in Navigating Same-Sex Attraction 31:01 - Understanding Doctrine and Its Application 33:03 - Promoting the North Star Conference 36:06 - Validating the Path of Covenant-Keeping 39:21 - The Importance of Teaching Eternal Truths 40:56 - Finding Strength in the Temple 44:34 - Accessing Strength Through Eternal Perspective The award-winning 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, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Unhealthy Ways We Seek Validation As Leaders | An Interview with Tony Overbay Jan 29, 2025

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This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in February 2020. Tony Overbay is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Mindful Habit Coach, and the host of two award-winning mental health podcasts, “The Virtual Couch” and “Waking Up to Narcissism.” Tony also co-hosts “Love, ADHD” with author Julie Lee, where they share their experiences of receiving ADHD diagnosis as adults, and Tony co-hosts two additional podcasts, “The Mind, The Mirror, and Me,” with his daughter Mackie, and “Murder on the Couch,” a true-crime meets therapy podcast with his daughter Sydney. Tony, Mackie, and Sydney offer live relationship advice weekly on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. He also serves on the Leading Saints Board of Therapists. Tony co-authored He’s A Porn Addict, Now What? An Expert and a Former Addict Answer Your Questions and works with individuals and couples on issues such as addiction, betrayal, navigating faith journeys, and people “waking up” to their own emotional immaturity/narcissistic traits and tendencies. He has online courses for couples communication and parenting, a soon-to-be-released course on navigating faith journeys, and is the creator of The Path Back, an online, faith-based pornography recovery program. You can find out more about any of Tony’s courses at https://tonyoverbay.com Tony is a father of four children and has been married to his high school sweetheart, Wendy, for 34 years. Before becoming a therapist, he spent a decade as a software executive and wrote a weekly humor column in a regional newspaper for nearly eight years. Tony is an avid runner, having completed over 100 marathons and ultramarathons, including a dozen races of 100 miles or more. Links TonyOverbay.com He's a Porn Addict...Now What?: An Expert and a Former Addict Answer Your Questions Clarifying Values PDF, from The Confidence Gap by Russ Harris Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights This episode delves into the concept of codependency within the context of Latter-day Saint culture, where it often manifests as the "nice guy syndrome." Kurt shares his personal experiences as a bishop, highlighting how his own struggles with codependency and the pressure to maintain a perfect image affected his leadership. Tony defines codependency as an excessive emotional reliance on others for self-worth, often leading individuals to prioritize others' needs over their own. The conversation emphasizes the importance of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which encourages individuals to accept their feelings and thoughts rather than avoid them. By focusing on personal values rather than identity, leaders can navigate their roles more effectively without succumbing to shame or self-doubt. The episode also touches on the significance of being present and acting according to one's values, rather than getting caught up in the pressures of perfectionism. 4:01 - Understanding Codependency 5:04 - The Nice Guy Syndrome 5:50 - Personal Struggles with Codependency 6:39 - Tony Overbay's Background 8:09 - The Role of External Validation 9:25 - Defining Codependency 10:52 - Codependency in Religious Contexts 11:42 - The Impact of Codependency on Self-Worth 13:00 - The Role of the Partner in Addiction Recovery 14:08 - The Role of External Validation 14:14 - The Importance of Individual Recovery 15:04 - The Connection Between Trauma and Codependency 16:22 - Addressing Codependency in Leadership 19:10 - Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Overview 20:49 - The Importance of Acceptance 22:40 - The Confidence Gap 24:18 - Values vs. Identity in Leadership 31:50 - The Bishop Monson Dynamic 36:36 - Systems vs. Goals in Personal Development 42:34 - Embracing Values in Leadership 50:32 - The Role of External Validation 01:02:47 - Truth, Beauty, and Goodness The award-winning 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, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

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