Sunshine in the Middle

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.

21. The Power of Persistent Prayer 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! /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/33840932

20. Jesus is Joy 10/22/2024

20. Jesus is Joy 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: 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. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/33521662

19. More Time For Temple Work 09/30/2024

19. More Time For Temple Work Episode Overview 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. Time Stamps 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? Connect with Us Website: Instagram: 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. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/32937032

18. Continual Becoming 09/23/2024

18. Continual Becoming Episode Overview 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. Time Stamps 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? Connect with Us Website: Instagram: 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. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/32905982

17. Be Prepared For Challenges With Joy 09/16/2024

17. Be Prepared For Challenges With Joy Episode Overview Today we’re talking about the connection between happiness and hardship. From my personal experiences and insights from Gordon B. Hinckley's "Be's," I share the importance of being happy, obedient, strong, and unoffendable. You’ll hear stories of how these principles have guided me through life's challenges as I’ve focused on happiness, obedience, spiritual strength, and avoiding offense. By partnering with God, we can navigate life's challenges and find joy and peace. Enjoy! Time Stamps 00:00 - Introduction 00:37 - Denver Trip and Life Lessons 05:10 - Be Happy 07:29 - Be Obedient 09:31 - Be Not Weary in Well Doing 12:29 - Be Confident in God's Love 15:30 - Be Strong 18:25 - Be Unoffendable 24:52 - Conclusion 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: Instagram: 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. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/32905777

16. How Do We Love Each Other More? 09/05/2024

16. How Do We Love Each Other More? Episode Overview Finding Sunshine in the Middle of life’s dark places means actively looking for joy in the difficult times, especially when it comes to other people. And in today’s episode, I discuss the challenge of being in the world with people - even the difficult ones - yet finding out how rewarding it can be to use the techniques I discuss in this episode to make new friends, establish connections within the church, and understand the true meaning of ministering. Come listen as I share personal anecdotes, scriptural insights, and practical suggestions to build meaningful relationships, serve others, and uphold the core gospel principles of loving God and loving others. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction 00:34 Challenges of Making New Friends 01:50 Questions to Build Common Ground 02:41 Importance of Connection in the Church 05:32 Testimony of Ministering 06:17 Loving God and Others 07:17 Reflections on Prayer and Service 10:49 Personal Anecdotes and Ministering Insights 20:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 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: Instagram: 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. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/32905627

15. Faith, Freedom, and America 06/26/2024

15. Faith, Freedom, and America Episode Summary In this patriotic episode, come with me as I walk you through the deep intersection between faith, freedom, and patriotism. I discuss personal stories that highlight the importance of loving and understanding one’s country, as well as the role of faith in preserving freedom. Join me as I recount influential and historical passages that have shaped my appreciation for America and its foundational values. TIME STAMPS 00:00 Introduction 02:10 Girl State Program Experience 15:34 The Importance of the Constitution 21:40 Responsibility to Defend the Constitution 25:44 Unity and Kindness in Action I would love to hear your thoughts! Share your favorite moment from this episode on social media and help spread inspiration. If you’re looking for more uplifting content, find us online at or follow us on Instagram --- Thank you for joining us on this journey through faith, freedom, and America. Your engagement helps me to build a community of like-minded individuals who cherish and uphold the values that make our country great. Until next time, stay inspired and stay patriotic. References For Personal Study /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/31393032

14. Finding Relief in Jesus Christ 06/12/2024

14. Finding Relief in Jesus Christ Episode Overview Today’s episode is one that’s very close to my heart. This is the Director’s Cut from my recent speech given at BYU Women's Conference on May 3, 2024. Whether you listened to me give it live or weren’t able to attend, this episode is a reminder that you have been given promised blessings that are made possible because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Join me as I share 5 things I have learned from adversity, challenges, and finding relief in Jesus Christ. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey 00:55 Early Adversity and Miracles in Life 01:26 A Surprising Neighbor and Lessons in Forgiveness 04:41 Embracing Callings with Faith 10:12 Deeper Insights into the Atonement 19:32 Combatting Adversity with the Savior's Power 30:55 Seeking Joy and Service as Relief 39:01 Concluding Testimony I’d love to hear your thoughts on any of the five lessons discussed in this episode! Share your reflections on the Instagram post or message me directly. And if you haven’t already, I invite you to subscribe for future episodes and to share this episode with your friends and family who might benefit from its message. Connect with Us Website: Instagram: 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. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/31410362

13. The Blessings of Temple Attendance 06/05/2024

13. The Blessings of Temple Attendance Episode Summary In today’s episode, I delve into the profound significance of temple attendance and the blessings it truly brings in our lives. I love the temple and in this episode I share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the power of regular temple worship. I discuss the spiritual strength gained from temple service, the importance of making sacrifices to dedicate time to temple attendance, and how these commitments fortify us during life’s challenges. Join me as I talk about how temple covenants enhance personal growth, strengthen faith, and positively impact our relationships and overall spiritual journey. TIME STAMPS 00:00 Introduction 02:37 Personal Experience with Temple Attendance 05:41 Blessings of Temple Attendance 18:58 Service and Sacrifice in the Temple Links to Talks and Quotes Referenced In Podcast Connect with Us Have any thoughts or experiences you’d like to share about temple attendance? I’d love to hear from you! Reach out to me on social media Thank you for joining me in this meaningful discussion. I hope it inspires you to deepen your commitment to temple worship and experience the profound blessings it brings. --- Stay tuned for future episodes where I dive deeper into specific aspects that impact our spiritual journey. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/31392622

12. The Spiritual Buffet - Nourishing Your Soul with Light 05/09/2024

12. The Spiritual Buffet - Nourishing Your Soul with Light What do food and spirituality have in common? In this episode, I talk about the commonalities of food and spirituality while discussing the importance of accessing the “spiritual buffet” that is available to us all. By intentionally nourishing our souls with the light of the gospel, we can thrive, not just survive. When we seek personal revelation to guide our spiritual priorities, we can focus on our own spiritual growth without comparing ourselves to others. By daily deciding what we need most from the "spiritual buffet," our learning and service become more sacred, fulfilling, and empowering, enabling us to be light keepers for those around us. Tune in today. 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Food Memories 02:19 Understanding the Gospel Light 07:59 Practical Strategies for Spiritual Nourishment /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/31221712

11. Finding Rest in Faith and Life's Challenges with Ashlee Miller 05/02/2024

11. Finding Rest in Faith and Life's Challenges with Ashlee Miller Feeling weary and weighed down? In this episode I team up with Ashlee Miller to discuss her new book, "His Rest,". We discuss the concept of rest in the midst of life's challenges and focus on finding rest and peace through faith, particularly in the context of motherhood, personal challenges, and spiritual growth. Ashlee shares her journey of writing a book, 'His Rest', inspired by her experiences and divine promptings, offering a blend of personal anecdotes, biblical perspectives, and actionable advice on embracing rest as more than physical relaxation, but a spiritual renewal in Jesus Christ. The discussion also delves into recognizing and overcoming adversarial influences, understanding our worth in the eyes of the Savior, and the importance of acting in faith to experience the Savior's rest, reflecting on the idea that rest and peace can be found amidst life's trials through faith and a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. Learn how to find peace and renewal through the power of the Savior, Jesus Christ by listening to this episode today. And if you’d like to purchase the book, you can visit or find it on . Follow Ashlee on Time Stamps 00:00 Introducing Ashlee and 'His Rest' 01:51 Personal Journeys and Divine Promptings 06:04 Understanding Rest in the Savior 16:17 Overcoming Adversity with Faith 25:50 Embracing Worthiness and Divine Love /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/31090933

10. Navigating Faith and Finding Christ During the Holidays 12/15/2023

10. Navigating Faith and Finding Christ During the Holidays In this special Christmas episode, I share my thoughts on navigating faith amidst life's challenges and questions. Drawing from personal experiences and scripture, I discuss the importance of centering our faith on Jesus Christ and his Atonement. When faced with difficult questions about church history, doctrine, or personal trials, returning to the simple truths of the Savior's love and sacrifice can provide clarity and peace. Throughout the episode, I share personal experiences that have shaped my faith: A personal text message exchange that provided clarity on navigating faith challenges. Reflections on finding answers to difficult gospel questions through personal revelation. Anecdotes illustrating how covenants and church attendance have strengthened my faith in Christ. My personal reasons for choosing to worship within a community of believers, even amidst uncertainties. As we approach the Christmas season, may we remember the simple yet powerful truths of the Savior's birth, life, and Atonement. By centering our faith on Christ and continually seeking his guidance, we can find joy and peace in our spiritual journeys. 00:00 Introduction to Sunshine in the Middle 01:39 Navigating Challenges with Faith 07:42 Seeking Answers from the Source 02:30 Purpose of Going to Church 12:33 Returning to the Source for Guidance 21:44 Strengthening Faith through Covenants 23:45 Worshiping and Learning Together 25:21 Closing Thoughts on Faith and Testimony /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/31090603

9. Personal Revelation - An Anchor For The Latter Days 07/11/2022

9. Personal Revelation - An Anchor For The Latter Days I feel like a total novice when it comes to Personal Revelation. It’s one thing I truly desire to know more about. I may not have all the answers, but the focus from our prophet and my own study have brought me hope. How does God speak to you? /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583434

8. Embracing the Second Coming Without Fear 07/04/2022

8. Embracing the Second Coming Without Fear When you think about the Second Coming of Jesus Christ do you have peace or does fear inch into your mind? In this episode I share a simple, yet powerful experience that shifted the way I think about and prepare for the second coming. Peace is possible! /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583437

7. Defined By Divinity 06/17/2022

7. Defined By Divinity These are the words I want to whisper into every woman’s ears, every day. If you don’t take my word for it, in this episode I share what Heavenly Father has to say about his daughters. In my heart, I know this only scratches the surface. Someday we will truly understand how much God loves his daughters, until then, I pray these Inklings will help. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583440

6. The Spirit of Belonging 02/28/2022

6. The Spirit of Belonging In today’s episode we’re talking all about belonging. We can’t let the gospel culture get in the way of our gospel testimonies. Let’s figure out how to belong together. Tune in to learn how you can choose to belong, to be unoffended, and to be unified. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583443

5. Satan Is A Jerk 02/21/2022

5. Satan Is A Jerk What can we do when we get stuck in one place? The core of all distraction is Satan. He is a jerk. His whole purpose is to keep us disconnected from the Savior. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583446

4. Spiritual Treasures - Exploring Women + Priesthood Power With Ashlee Miller 01/10/2022

4. Spiritual Treasures - Exploring Women + Priesthood Power With Ashlee Miller Joined by my dear friend, Ashlee Miller, we’re diving into President Nelson’s invitation to us from his October 2019 General Conference. To do this work we’re called to do, we have to have a foundation of faith and increase our understanding of the priesthood. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583449

3. Happiness Isn't Out Of Reach 01/10/2022

3. Happiness Isn't Out Of Reach Happiness is a luxury that we all have access to. In this episode I share an embarrassing story about my movie theater experience on my daughter’s birthday. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583452

2. Always Believe - with Clint Pulver 01/10/2022

2. Always Believe - with Clint Pulver Today’s episode is about believing! My good friend, Clint, and I are talking about all things Christmas. No matter the time of year, these thoughts matter. He shares some unique insights on creating a “to don’t” list for the holidays, choosing the feelings you want to feel, and setting apart days for family time! /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583455

1. What Does Sunshine In The Middle Even Mean? - Trailer 01/10/2022

1. What Does Sunshine In The Middle Even Mean? - Trailer I’m so excited you’ve found me in this section of the internet. I created this podcast because I want to help YOU find light in life’s dark places. I love helping humans discover what lights them on fire and then giving them the tools to make it happen. /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583458

Opener 01/03/2022

Opener Welcome to my new podcast! In this podcast we’re going to talk about faith, searching for more, tips, strategies, and ideas that will help you find happiness and peace in the middle of life’s dark places. Tune in! /episode/index/show/0116dba2-047b-452b-b7d5-1338f58fe41c/id/24583464

Sunshine in the Middle

TOPICS