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

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

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.

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

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.

• 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.

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.

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

• 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!

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!

Episode Overview

Let’s go on a reflective journey of emotional highs and lows through my middle and high school years in today’s episode. The deep emotions that we experience play a significant role in shaping our faith and personal growth, and especially the joy that comes from focusing on Jesus Christ amid life's challenges.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Sunshine in the Middle

00:36 Middle and High School Memories

02:16 Navigating Teenage Emotions

03:40 The Role of Emotions in Faith

05:28 Jesus Christ's Understanding of Emotions

07:23 Choosing Joy Intentionally

08:50 Life as a Classroom

11:10 Spiritual Practices and Goals

17:42 Conclusion and Invitation

Links:

It Is Wisdom in the Lord That We Should Have the Book of Mormon - By President Mark L. Pace

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.

Temple worship isn’t always the easiest with the busyness of today, and while it can be inconvenient to schedule an appointment and to find time to set aside the tasks of your life, God promised that the inventions of today would make it easier than ever for us to accomplish the temple work that needs to be done. So join me in today’s episode as I share stories of sacrifice for the temple, modern conveniences that allow us more frequent temple attendance, and the benefits that far outweigh the time commitment of serving.

• 00:00 Introduction

• 00:36 Temples in My Life

• 07:32 Stories of Sacrifice

• 09:03 Personal Testimonies and Experiences

• 15:31 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

• 15:35 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?

• 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.

Growing up with a passion for drama, my perspective shifted towards eternal goals as I looked toward finding joy amidst life's challenges. I share the importance of connecting with Heavenly Father through temple attendance, studying the words of church leaders, and practicing faith as an action. Come listen as I discuss how following the living prophets, prayer, and loving others are essential elements of a true disciple's life. I encourage you to maintain a strong connection with God and to love and accept others where they are on their spiritual journeys.

• 01:18 - Celestial Anchoring and the Importance of Goals

• 02:20 - Connecting with Heavenly Father Through the Temple

• 02:34 - Quotes and Perspectives from Church Leaders

• 04:04 - Faith as an Active, Ongoing Process

• 04:36 - Overcoming Spiritual Complacency

• 06:16 - Battling Doubt and Staying Spiritually Strong

• 08:19 - Practices to Maintain Spiritual Connection

• 13:07 - Foundational Practices: Faith, Following Prophets, and Prayer

• 17:47 - The Importance of Scriptures and Gratitude

• 19:44 - Developing Kindness and Empathy

• 24:08 - Final Thoughts and Testimony

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?

• 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! I hope this episode brings you closer to finding the peace and relief that Jesus Christ offers.