What happens when a creative prompting turns into something that can change one person’s life?

In this week's episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott and Darla Brandley sit down with author and Praiseworthy Award winner Jason Jones, who shares his 8-year journey behind writing his debut novel, “One Day a Year.” From making simple screenplays with his coworkers to boost company morale, what began as a simple idea for a time-travel story evolved into years of persistence, self-doubt, and growth, packaged into a book on faith and family history. Jason opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, learning the craft of storytelling, and holding onto the quiet spiritual nudges that kept him moving forward—until the “ideal reader” he created in his mind turned out to be the best plot twist he never expected.

Jason admits that the most powerful part of his story came after the book was finished. He reflects on how his work unexpectedly became a catalyst for someone close to him to rediscover faith, illustrating how creative efforts—no matter how small they seem—can carry a much greater purpose. Through themes of familial love, intuitive pulls, and trusting in divine timing, this conversation is a reminder that the things we feel called to create may matter more than we could ever realize.

*** Please SHARE Jason's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/4u5baAbBclA

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To READ Jason’s book, “One Day a Year,” visit: https://a.co/d/0fxexvgo

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

What role does music play in helping us feel closer to God and find peace in our everyday lives?

In this week’s episode of Latter-Day Lights, we sit down with pianist, musical arranger, and father, Michael Boyd, whose lifelong love for music has become a powerful way to invite the Spirit into his heart, and strengthen his faith. From his early experiences in learning piano, to developing a deep appreciation for hymns during his mission, Michael shares how music has shaped not only his talents, but his testimony. His stories—including unforgettable moments like meeting Gladys Knight, and witnessing the impact of sacred music on others—highlight how God can use our gifts in unexpected and meaningful ways.

Michael also opens up about creating his hymn arrangement album, “Be Still, My Soul,” blending musical creativity with spiritual inspiration to bring listeners a deeper sense of peace and connection. He shares how he thoughtfully weaves together multiple melodies—sometimes combining hymns, as seen in his mashup of “Kingsfold” and “I Need Thee Every Hour”—to deepen the emotional and spiritual impact of each piece. Through personal experiences, family life, and solemn moments at the piano, he reflects on how intentional, uplifting music can transform the atmosphere in our homes and hearts—reminding us that some of the most powerful expressions of faith are felt, not just spoken.

*** Please SHARE Michael's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/tSRNdHcQots

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To LISTEN to Michael’s first album, “Be Still, My Soul,” visit: https://open.spotify.com/album/0HhZ9Emk4oCHJ0xhjQumNz?si=7XOec_jKRV-3Neo0wDyn1Q

To LISTEN to Michael’s track, “Kingsfold and I Need Thee Every Hour,” visit: https://open.spotify.com/track/7afUlL6qjBDbc9cYzaxiUY?si=4c3d23d7ceec4048

To READ Michael’s free sheet music, visit: https://specialmusicalnumbers.com/

To FOLLOW Michael on Spotify, visit: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3NLcup1JpD4nmP3HvSIVA6

To FOLLOW Michael on Apple Music, visit: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/w-michael-boyd/1843900046

To FOLLOW Michael on Amazon Music, visit: https://music.amazon.com/artists/B0FV3D7PQP/w-michael-boyd

To FOLLOW Michael on Deezer, visit: https://www.deezer.com/us/artist/349661021

To FOLLOW Michael on YouTube Music, visit: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_kPwJ_Y8FkCbbkvYNV3gWgI3uAO3Dljuws

To LISTEN to “His Hands” by Kenneth Cope, visit: https://open.spotify.com/track/4sumBgc7QuvrVHA4bdZXsq?si=60e30cea674d43b9

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

If you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know at https://www.latterdaylights.com

What if the path Jesus walked to the cross was something you could actually walk today — and what would it teach you about Him?

On this week's special Easter episode, we bring back Dr. Trina Boyce to share more about the Via Dolorosa — an ancient 2,000-foot path winding through the Old City of Jerusalem that traces the final hours of Christ's life, from His condemnation by Pontius Pilate to His burial in the tomb. Christians around the world have been making this sacred pilgrimage for centuries, yet most Latter-day Saints have never heard of it.

Trina walks us through all 14 stations of this powerful journey, uncovering stunning parallels between the sacrifice of Isaac and the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and diving into the rich symbolism hidden inside the Jewish Passover Seder. She also shares what it was actually like to be there — walking ancient stones, hearing hymns sung in dozens of languages, and feeling the Spirit in one of the most spiritually charged places on earth.

Whether or not you ever make it to Jerusalem, this episode will bring the Savior's final hours to life in a way that's both deeply moving and surprisingly accessible — a perfect listen for the Easter season.

*** Please SHARE Trina's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/6c6zl-uDKr8

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To LEARN MORE about Trina, visit: https://www.TrinaBoice.com

To LEARN MORE about Trina's author coaching services, visit: https://www.frombook2business.com/

To READ Trina's book, "Via Dolorosa," visit: https://www.cedarfort.com/products/via-dolorosa-christs-path-to-the-cross?srsltid=AfmBOoriQlGGDu7ngEuLrfu0GN38cg1FUe-z7ovPv7bYXO6i-NCc9pD6

To READ Trina's book, "The Language of Heaven," visit: https://a.co/d/4j5b4kX

To LISTEN to Dr. Trina's podcast, "Daily Inspirational Quote," visit: https://open.spotify.com/show/17RPUlzByZQVu4zmqktoZ0?si=86c6033495a048f1

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

#LDSPodcast #ChristianStories #LatterDayLights

What if your hardest moments are actually preparing you to help uplift others?

In todays episode of Latter-Day Lights, Christine Maynor shares a powerful journey of faith shaped through both quiet growth and deep personal trials.

From a childhood rooted in strong values to discovering her voice through faith-centered poetry, she’s learned to turn life’s experiences—both joyful and painful—into meaningful expression.

Her unique approach to poetry—combining backstory and takeaways—makes her message both relatable and impactful.

Her story takes a deeply emotional turn as she opens up about serving a mission outside her comfort zone, experiencing miscarriage, and facing ongoing infertility.

These challenges tested her faith and brought moments of anger and doubt, but ultimately led her to a more honest and healing relationship with God. Through vulnerability, prayer, and support, she discovered that real strength comes from facing pain—not avoiding it.

Despite chronic illness and ongoing uncertainty, Christine continues to move forward with faith, using tools like therapy, gratitude, and temple service to stay grounded.

Her message is simple but powerful: even when life feels lonely, you are never alone—and your story has the power to bring light to others.

*** Please SHARE Christine's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/KUHD0_jyRQ8

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To LEARN MORE about Christine, visit: https://www.faithcenteredinspiration.com

To FOLLOW Christine on Facebook, visit: https://www.facebook.com/faithcenteredinspiration

To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

#LDSPodcast #ChristianStories #LatterDayLights

How does Jesus Christ make up the difference when life feels unfair, overwhelming, or beyond our ability to fix?

In this week’s episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott and Darla Brandley sit down with BYU professor and author, BJ Allen, to explore the concept of “the compensating power of Christ,” and how these unique revelations led him to write and publish his Praiseworthy Award-winning book. What started as a mere desire to better understand one powerful line from “Preach My Gospel” quickly turned into an illuminating study of the Savior’s atonement, and a growing testimony that Christ is far more involved in our daily lives than we often realize.

Through thoughtful examples and faith-centered insights, BJ explains how the Savior not only helps us overcome our own weaknesses, but also compensates for the effects of others’ weaknesses, and the unfairness of mortality itself. BJ’s story is a moving reminder that even when blessings are hard to recognize in the moment, Christ is quietly making up the difference, walking with us through every trial, and drawing nearer to us than we may have yet to understand.

*** Please SHARE BJ's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/kzgCXod2Dh8

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To READ BJ’s book, “The Compensating Power of Christ,” visit: https://a.co/d/01aQKNQN

To READ “Preach My Gospel,” visit: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/preach-my-gospel-2023?lang=eng

To LEARN MORE about BJ, visit: https://www.bjallen.net/

To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

How can small acts of understanding make a big difference in someone’s spiritual journey?

In this week’s episode of Latter-day Lights, Scott Brandley sits down with father-daughter duo — Robert Johnson and Liberty Kepford — to share the inspiration behind their book, “Autism in Christ’s Church.” Drawing from their extensive experience working with, interviewing, and studying the behaviors of individuals on the spectrum, they explore the unique challenges many families face when trying to participate fully in Church life, as well as the powerful faith that can grow through broadening accessibility for people with disabilities.

Through heartfelt stories and practical insights, Robert and Liberty discuss how greater awareness, empathy, and simple accommodations can transform the Church experience for individuals with autism. From supportive ward members and disability specialists, to tailored opportunities for service and missions, this conversation highlights the incredible gifts individuals with autism bring to their communities — and how small acts of understanding can make an eternal difference.

*** Please SHARE Liberty & Robert's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/kzgCXod2Dh8

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To READ Liberty & Robert’s book, “Autism in Christ’s Church,” visit: https://a.co/d/0eHmHVio

To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

What do you do when God’s plan for your life looks completely different from the one you carefully mapped out?

In this week’s episode of Latter-day Lights, Scott and Emily sit down with author and special guest — Tayma Johnson — to share her journey from never planning to serve a mission, to feeling unmistakably called by the Lord to step into the unknown. Through moments of prayer, spiritual prompting, and unexpected mundane confirmations that subtly nudged her towards mission prep, Tayma recounts how she learned to trust God’s timing over her own fears about the future. Her story offers a deeply relatable look at the wrestle between personal desire and divine direction, and how real intent in prayer can open the door to clarity and peace.

Tayma also discusses the inspiration behind her upcoming book, “Called to Serve?” which features the stories of 27 women navigating the complex decision of whether or not to serve missions, in hopes to inspire others to take the leap. Alongside reflections on companionship, revelation, and faith during uncertain seasons such as the COVID-era missionary work, this conversation explores how God guides individuals differently—and how seeking to be spiritually ready to receive answers can be just as important as the answers themselves.

*** Please SHARE Tayma's story and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/SGXzYv6Hlgw

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To READ Tayma’s book, “Called to Serve?” visit: https://www.cedarfort.com/products/called-to-serve

To SUPPORT Emily's non-profit organization, "The Marcovia Project," visit: https://themarcoviaproject.org/

To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

What have we learned after four years and nearly 200 stories of faith?

As the show passes the four-year mark, long-time co-host Alicia Coakley shares why she is reluctantly stepping away, and together she and Scott revisit several moments of hope, healing, and inspiration that have changed their lives and those of the Latter-Day Lights community.

From heart-wrenching accounts of pain, loss, and difficult trials to inspiring stories of faith, redemption, and mercy. Each one reflects, in its own unique way, how God’s light often shows up in the most unexpected forms, places, and timing.

Though Alicia will be greatly missed, her impact will continue to shine as Latter-Day Lights moves forward in its mission to instill faith, invite hope, and inspire others.

*** Please SHARE this episode and help us spread hope and light to others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/UQ4bXh1LYmQ

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Keep updated with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latter.day.lights/
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

#LDSPodcast #ChristianStories #LatterDayLights