Pablo Smith: Bringing Scripture to Life Through Animation and the Book of Mormon Graphic Novel

Host: Cassidy Beck
Podcast: Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations

✨ Episode OverviewWhat happens when a lifelong passion for storytelling meets a desire to strengthen faith at home?

In this special 100th episode of Verses & Visions, Cassidy sits down with animator and creator Pablo Smith to explore the heart behind his Book of Mormon graphic novel—a project that began as a simple effort to help his daughter connect with scripture and has since grown into something much bigger.

With over 20 years of experience in animation, Pablo has worked with major studios like Disney, Nickelodeon, and DreamWorks. But it’s his personal project—bringing the Book of Mormon to life through visual storytelling—that has become one of his most meaningful creative endeavors.

Together, they discuss creativity, faith, perseverance, and what it looks like to use your God-given talents in service of something greater.🔑 Key Topics Discussed

• How Pablo’s career in animation (including work on major studio projects) shaped his storytelling approach
• The moment his daughter’s struggle with scripture sparked the idea for a graphic novel
• Why visual storytelling can make scripture more accessible and engaging
• The balance between staying doctrinally faithful and creatively expressive
• The role of personal projects in sustaining creativity over time
• Overcoming self-doubt and continuing to create without external validation
• How this project has strengthened Pablo’s testimony and connection to the Book of Mormon
• Why developing your talents fully matters when you feel called to create

💛 Personal Takeaway

This conversation is a powerful reminder that the things we feel called to create often start small—sometimes even quietly, within our own homes.

Pablo didn’t begin with a large platform or a publishing deal. He began with a desire to help his child—and a willingness to act on that prompting. Over time, that simple act of creation grew into something that is now reaching and impacting others.

It’s a beautiful example of what can happen when we trust that our talents have purpose—and choose to use them.

🔗 Resources & Links

• 🎧 Listen to Pablo’s work on YouTube: Book of Mormon Graphic Novel
• 📘 Preorder Pablo’s upcoming graphic novel (publishing September through Cedar Fort Publishing & Media):
  👉 https://www.cedarfort.com/products/the-book-of-mormon-graphic-novel-volume-1

🤝 Connect with Pablo Smith

• YouTube: Book of Mormon Graphic Novel
• Website: Book of Mormon Graphic Novel
• Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok

✨ Noelle McBride: Finding Healing, Hope, and Identity After Divorce

Welcome back to Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations. In this deeply moving and faith-filled episode, Cassidy sits down with inspirational speaker, author, and disciple of Jesus Christ, Noelle McBride.

After experiencing the heartbreak of divorce 💔 following a temple marriage, Noelle found herself navigating grief, uncertainty, and a complete unraveling of the life she once envisioned. But through her unwavering reliance on the Savior, she discovered something powerful: healing is not only possible—it can be transformative.

In this conversation, Noelle shares her personal journey of walking through pain, learning to hear God’s voice more clearly, and rebuilding her identity and life with intention and faith. Her story is one of resilience, trust, and the beauty that can come when we allow God to rewrite our plans.

Whether you’re facing a life transition, loss, or simply seeking a deeper relationship with Christ, this episode offers hope, practical insight, and a reminder that your story is not over 📖

✨ Key Topics Discussed

• Navigating the emotional and spiritual realities of divorce

• Recognizing different forms of abuse and seeking support
• Learning to rely on daily personal revelation
• What it looks like to “turn your heart” to Christ in everyday life
• The role of counseling, community, and medication in healing
• Rebuilding identity and self-worth after heartbreak
• Letting go of rigid life “blueprints” and trusting God’s plan
• The power of intentional growth and becoming who God calls you to be
• How faith can guide you step-by-step through uncertainty

💛 Personal TakeawayNoelle’s story is a powerful reminder that healing rarely happens all at once—it unfolds step by step as we choose to trust God in the unknown. One of the most impactful insights from this episode is the idea of releasing our tightly held “blueprints” and allowing the Lord to author a more beautiful story than we could create on our own.

Her testimony of turning to Christ daily—through prayer, scripture study, temple worship, and honest conversations with God—illustrates what it truly means to rely on Him in both the messy and sacred moments of life.

If you’re in a season where things feel uncertain or broken, this episode will gently remind you: God is still writing your story.

🔗 Resources & Links

• Beauty for Ashes: Divorce in the Latter-day Saint Woman
• BooksByNoelle.com
• Facebook Group: Beauty for Ashes: Hope and Healing After Divorce
• Follow Noelle on Instagram & Facebook

🥤 Sponsor ShoutoutThis episode is brought to you by SodaBeers—a family-owned premium soda company bringing refreshing, high-quality drinks to your table.

Also, don’t miss Cassidy’s children’s book Sheep Chronicles: Baptism—a faith-filled story designed to help children understand gospel principles in a meaningful way. Available now on Amazon.

📱 Connect with the GuestFollow Noelle McBride on Instagram and Facebook, or join her private women’s community for faith-centered healing and support.

🎙️ Connect with the HostConnect with Cassidy Beck and follow Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations for more inspiring stories of faith, creativity, and purpose.

In this inspiring episode of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations, Cassidy Beck sits down with author, educator, and podcaster Tracy D. Smith to explore what it means to trust God through life’s unexpected turns.

Tracy’s journey is anything but linear. From teaching and homeschooling to navigating serious autoimmune health challenges, her path has required deep faith, resilience, and a willingness to pivot when life didn’t go as planned. What once felt like loss—stepping away from full-time teaching—became the beginning of something new: a calling to write, create, and share powerful, often untold stories from history.

Together, Cassidy and Tracy discuss the emotional and spiritual realities of chronic illness, the courage it takes to begin before you feel ready, and how creativity can become a sacred act of faith. Tracy also shares the story of Sybil Ludington, a little-known Revolutionary War heroine, and how stories like hers inspire her work and mission.

This conversation is a reminder that even when your path doesn’t make sense, God is still writing something meaningful—and your story has purpose.

✨ Key Topics Discussed

• Trusting God through life’s unexpected pivots
• Navigating chronic illness with faith and resilience
• Letting go of plans and embracing new purpose
• The power of storytelling and uncovering hidden history
• Beginning before you feel ready as a creator
• Balancing ambition with grace (“grit and grace”)

• Learning to accept both faith and difficult emotions at the same time

💛 Personal TakeawayThis episode is a powerful reminder that purpose isn’t always found in the path we planned—but in the one God gently leads us toward. Tracy’s story beautifully illustrates that even in seasons of limitation, we are still called to create, to grow, and to trust. You don’t have to have everything figured out to begin—just the willingness to take the next step.

🔗 Resources & LinksTracy’s Website: authortracydsmith.com

• First Lady of Jamestown
• Threads of Faith
• The Timeless Adventures of Kiki and George
• Podcast: History’s Unsung Heroes

🌿 Sponsor ShoutoutThis episode is brought to you by SodaBeers, our family-owned premium soda company—perfect for any gathering or everyday treat.

And don’t miss Cassidy’s new children’s book, Sheep Chronicles: Baptism, a faith-filled story designed to spark meaningful conversations with your little ones.

🤝 Connect with the Guest

• Website: authortracydsmith.com

🎧 Connect with the Host

• Podcast: Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations
• Website: SageVersePublishing
• Instagram: Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations
• Facebook: Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations

Lisa Tolk: The Book She Wrote for Her Daughter That Became a Bestseller

In this inspiring episode of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations, host Cassidy Beck sits down with author Lisa Tolk to explore her remarkable journey from teacher and political professional to bestselling novelist. Lisa shares the heartfelt story behind her debut novel Eden, a book she originally wrote for her daughter that unexpectedly grew into a #1 Amazon bestseller across multiple categories.

Together, Cassidy and Lisa dive into what it means to create with purpose—blending faith, storytelling, and courage. Lisa opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, embracing growth as a writer, and the powerful role her family played in helping bring her book to life. With a passion for writing “brave girls,” Lisa’s work encourages young women to step into confidence, discover their identity, and trust their voice.

This episode is especially meaningful for writers, creatives, and anyone who feels a quiet nudge to finally start the thing that’s been on their heart. Lisa’s journey is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your calling—and that small, faithful steps can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Key Topics Discussed

• The 14-year journey of writing and publishing Eden

• Transitioning from politics and teaching into creative writing
• What it means to write “smart, clean fiction” with purpose
• Blending faith, mysticism, romance, and history in storytelling
• Overcoming fear, vulnerability, and imposter syndrome
• The importance of writing for an audience of one
• How Lisa’s family helped bring her book to life
• Why there’s a growing need for clean young adult fiction
• Lessons learned while writing the sequel The Echoes of Eden
• Encouragement for aspiring writers to start before they feel ready

Personal TakeawayOne of the most powerful reminders from this conversation is that creativity doesn’t require perfection—it requires courage. Lisa’s story shows that even something created quietly, just for yourself or your family, can grow into something that impacts thousands. When we choose to act on inspiration, even imperfectly, we make space for God to magnify our efforts in ways we never could have planned.

Resources & Links

• Eden by Lisa Tolk (available on Amazon)
• Upcoming sequel: The Echoes of Eden
• Teen writing and publishing workshops (local libraries & schools)

Sponsor Shoutout This episode is brought to you by SodaBeers, our family’s premium soda company. If you’re looking for a refreshing, family-friendly drink, be sure to check them out!

And don’t miss my children’s book, Sheep Chronicles: Baptism—a faith-filled story perfect for families to read together.

Connect with the Guest

• Lisa Tolk – Author of Eden

• Follow along for updates on The Echoes of Eden and future projects

Connect with the Host

• Cassidy Beck – Host of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations

• Founder of Sage Verse Publishing

Katie Bell: A Life Rooted in Faith, Family, and FreedomHosted by Cassidy Beck✨ Episode OverviewWhat does it look like to live with bold conviction at just 17 years old?In this inspiring episode of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations, host Cassidy Beck sits down with Katie Bell—a young speaker, performer, and creator whose life is rooted in faith, family, and a deep love for America. From speaking at the State Capitol to performing in international folk dance festivals, Katie shares how she has learned to stand confidently in her beliefs while navigating the challenges of being young in today’s world.Katie opens up about what it means to be an “old-fashioned American girl” in a modern culture, why protecting the family matters more than ever, and how her relationship with God shapes everything she does. She also shares powerful personal experiences—from honoring victims of communism to navigating moments of fear, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome.This conversation is a beautiful blend of conviction and humility, reminding listeners that courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear—it means choosing to act anyway.🔑 Key Topics DiscussedWhat it means to be an “old-fashioned American girl” in today’s worldThe importance of faith, family, and foundational valuesSpeaking at the State Capitol and honoring victims of communismFinding courage to speak up—especially among peersThe difference between debate and meaningful civil discourseLessons learned from international travel and cultural exchangeRepresenting America through folk dance and musicHomeschooling and creating a personalized education pathHealth, ancestral eating, and honoring the body as a “vessel”Balancing a full life of creativity, academics, and spiritualityNavigating self-doubt and imposter syndrome as a young creatorTrusting God and stepping into your purpose with faith

💛 Personal TakeawayKatie’s story is a powerful reminder that age does not determine impact. Her ability to speak boldly while remaining grounded in faith and humility is both refreshing and inspiring.One of the most striking themes in this conversation is her perspective on courage—especially the idea that it can be harder to stand firm among peers than in front of a crowd. Her insight into self-doubt and imposter syndrome is equally powerful: you don’t have to feel ready to begin—you just have to be willing.Her words invite us all to reflect: What do we believe, and are we willing to stand for it?🔗 Resources & MentionsBrigham Young UniversityCome Find His RestRandall A. Wright

🌟 Sponsor Shoutout📚 Sheep Chronicles: Baptism by Cassidy BeckA heartfelt children’s book about Joshua, a curious boy learning about baptism through the parable of a lost sheep named Shannon. This faith-filled story is perfect for families looking to spark meaningful conversations about the gospel.🤝 Connect with the GuestKatie Bell is currently sharing her journey through social media, with plans to launch her YouTube and Spotify platforms soon. Stay tuned for upcoming music, creative projects, and more.🎙 Connect with the HostFollow Cassidy Beck and Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations for more inspiring stories from creators, dreamers, and changemakers walking in faith and purpose.

Welcome back to Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations—where faith meets action and ideas turn into impact.

In this Spark Series episode, Cassidy Beck sits down with professional editor Meghan Hoesch to explore the powerful, often unseen role editors play in shaping stories—and the people who write them. With over five years of freelance experience, Meghan specializes in copy editing, line editing, and proofreading, helping authors refine their work while preserving what matters most: their unique voice.

But this conversation goes far beyond grammar and punctuation.

Meghan shares how her love for storytelling grew during her time studying English and how that passion evolved into a meaningful career supporting authors behind the scenes. Together, Cassidy and Meghan walk through the editing process—from developmental edits to final proofreading—and unpack what truly makes a story come alive.

Through honest and heartfelt moments, Meghan also opens up about her own journey stepping into authorship after winning the LDSPMA Spark Award for her short story Discovering Ella. She reflects on overcoming perfectionism, navigating the tension between her “editor brain” and creative flow, and learning to trust the process enough to simply begin.

At the heart of this episode is a powerful reminder: growth—both creative and spiritual—happens line upon line. And when we trust that process, something beautiful begins to unfold.

🌟 Key Topics Discussed

• The role of an editor and why it’s essential to great storytelling
• Differences between developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, and proofreading
• Why an author’s unique voice matters more than perfection
• The challenge of balancing editing instincts while writing creatively
• Overcoming perfectionism and creative self-doubt
• Meghan’s journey from editor to award-winning writer
• Faith parallels: living and growing “line upon line”
• How to give and receive feedback with both honesty and encouragement

💛 Personal TakeawayThere is something deeply sacred about refinement. Meghan’s perspective reminds us that just like a manuscript, our lives are shaped gradually—through small corrections, thoughtful guidance, and consistent effort. Line by line, day by day, we are becoming something greater than we can see in the moment.

🔗 Resources & Links

• Connect with Meghan Hoesch on LinkedIn
• Email: m.e.hoesch@gmail.com
• Discovering Ella (not yet published—stay tuned for future release updates)

🥤 Sponsor ShoutoutThis episode is brought to you by SodaBeers, a family-owned premium soda company offering refreshing, high-quality drinks perfect for any occasion.

And don’t miss Cassidy’s children’s book, Sheep Chronicles: Baptism—a faith-filled story designed to help children understand gospel principles through meaningful storytelling.

🤝 Connect with the GuestMeghan Hoesch is a freelance editor who is passionate about helping authors elevate their work while staying true to their voice. She has experience across multiple genres, including historical fiction, romance, children’s literature, and nonfiction.

🌿 Connect with the HostFollow, share, and subscribe to Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations for more inspiring stories where creativity and faith intersect.

If this episode resonated with you, share it with a writer, creator, or dreamer who may be waiting for their sign to begin.

This might just be it. ✨

What does it mean to embrace the divine feminine while staying rooted in faith in Jesus Christ?In this episode of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations, I sit down with author and podcaster Ramona Siddoway to explore the intersection of faith, identity, and creativity. Ramona is a nonfiction writer, cozy mystery author (writing as Monica Rivers), and host of the Exploring the Divine Feminine podcast, where she studies scripture and engages scholarly perspectives to better understand the feminine nature of deity.Together, we dive into what it looks like to honor both the masculine and feminine aspects of divine identity—and how that understanding can unlock greater clarity, confidence, and creative freedom.Ramona shares her journey from journalism to authorship, how she balances nonfiction research with fiction storytelling, and why she chooses to create without being driven by external expectations. We also talk about imposter syndrome, comparison, and a powerful mindset shift that can help you keep moving forward—even when self-doubt shows up.This conversation is thoughtful, faith-centered, and expansive—especially for women seeking to better understand their divine identity and creative purpose.✨ In This Episode, We Talk About:*The difference between writing nonfiction and fiction*Why Ramona uses a pen name for her cozy mysteries*Researching the divine feminine in scripture*How to stay grounded in Christ while exploring deeper questions*Letting go of creative pressure and unrealistic expectations*A simple but powerful tool to navigate imposter syndrome*Creating from identity instead of validation🌿 My Personal TakeawayWhen we truly understand who we are as daughters (and sons) of God, we stop creating for approval—and start creating with purpose. This episode is a beautiful reminder that your voice matters, and your work will reach the people it’s meant to.🔗 Resources & Links🌐 Ramona Siddoway’s Website: https://ramonasiddoway.com🎙️ Podcast: Exploring the Divine Feminine (available on all major platforms)📚 Monica Rivers Cozy Mysteries: A Mormon Woman’s Guide to Murder✍️ Read Ramona’s work on Medium💛 Sponsor ShoutoutYou know how much I love sharing stories that inspire faith and hope. My new children’s book, Sheep Chronicles: Baptism, follows Joshua—a curious boy learning about baptism through the story of a lost sheep named Shannon, shared by his wise grandpa.It’s a meaningful and engaging way to introduce gospel principles to your family. 💛🤝 Connect with Ramona SiddowayWebsite: https://ramonasiddoway.comMedium: Ramona SiddowayPodcast: Exploring the Divine Feminine🌟 Connect with MeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassidysbeckPodcast: Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations🔔 Don’t ForgetIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to:👍 Like💬 Comment your favorite takeaway🔔 Subscribe for more faith-filled creative conversations

What does it mean to truly seek and expect miracles in everyday life?

In this inspiring episode of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations, host Cassidy Beck sits down with Sue McGhie-Troff to explore the power of faith, prayer, and recognizing God’s hand in both extraordinary and ordinary moments.

Sue shares powerful stories from her life that strengthened her belief that miracles are still happening today. From a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Holy Land that nearly fell apart during a blizzard, to personal health challenges that required deep trust in God’s timing, Sue reflects on how faith and persistence in prayer have shaped her life.

With decades of experience serving children and families in education—including years as an elementary school principal and director of school services—Sue has seen firsthand how quiet promptings, spiritual impressions, and simple acts of obedience can change lives in meaningful ways.

Throughout the conversation, Cassidy and Sue discuss the difference between hoping for miracles and truly expecting them. They also explore what it looks like to keep praying even when answers don’t come immediately and how learning to trust God’s will can strengthen our relationship with Him.

Whether you are currently waiting for a miracle or simply seeking a closer connection with heaven, this episode offers encouragement to look for the ways God is already working in your life.Key Topics Discussed

• What miracles really look like in everyday life

• The story behind Miracles Have Not Ceased, Neither Have Angels Ceased to Minister Unto Men

• How faith and obedience can open the door to miracles

• Recognizing spiritual promptings and trusting them

• Learning to trust God when prayers aren’t answered right away

• Experiences with healing, faith, and personal revelation

• Why continuing to pray—even when it’s difficult—matters

Personal TakeawayOne of the most powerful reminders from this conversation is that miracles are not always dramatic or immediately obvious. Sometimes they appear as quiet promptings, unexpected timing, or the strength to endure something difficult.

Sue’s experiences remind us that God is aware of our lives in deeply personal ways. Even when answers don’t come in the timing or form we expect, faith and persistence in prayer can help us recognize His guidance and grow closer to Him.

Resources & LinksSue McGhie-Troff’s book:
Miracles Have Not Ceased, Neither Have Angels Ceased to Minister Unto Men — available on Amazon.

Cassidy Beck’s children’s book:
Sheep Chronicles: Baptism

Sponsor ShoutoutToday’s episode is sponsored by SodaBeers, a family-owned premium soda company offering refreshing drinks the whole family can enjoy.

Connect with the Guest Sue McGhie-Troff
Author and speaker who encourages others to actively seek and confidently expect miracles through faith and prayer.

Connect with the HostCassidy Beck
Host of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations

Cassidy interviews authors, artists, and changemakers who are using their gifts and faith to uplift others and create meaningful impact in the world.