Ever Onward

Brad Johnson: Thoughts from a Former Mission President part 2

What makes missionary service truly life-changing? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brad Johnson, former mission president of the Pennsylvania Pittsburgh Mission, to discuss the profound lessons of missionary work—from the struggles of homesickness to the miracles of transformation.Brad shares how his own mission in France & Switzerland shaped his life, the reality of mission expectations versus experiences, and the powerful growth that comes from overcoming challenges. He reflects on the unique struggles missionaries face, the impact of companionships, and the ways in which trust in God’s plan can turn unexpected transfers into life-changing moments.Whether you're preparing to serve, currently on a mission, or supporting a missionary, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and real talk about what it means to serve with heart, might, mind, and strength.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on mental health, missions, and everything in between!

Brad Johnson: Thoughts from a Former Mission President part 1

What makes missionary service truly life-changing? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brad Johnson, former mission president of the Pennsylvania Pittsburgh Mission, to discuss the profound lessons of missionary work—from the struggles of homesickness to the miracles of transformation.Brad shares how his own mission in France & Switzerland shaped his life, the reality of mission expectations versus experiences, and the powerful growth that comes from overcoming challenges. He reflects on the unique struggles missionaries face, the impact of companionships, and the ways in which trust in God’s plan can turn unexpected transfers into life-changing moments.Whether you're preparing to serve, currently on a mission, or supporting a missionary, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and real talk about what it means to serve with heart, might, mind, and strength.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on mental health, missions, and everything in between!

Brett and Amy Horsley: The Lord's Work Never Stops Part 2

Ever wondered what it’s like to lead a mission during a global pandemic? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brett and Amy Horsley, former mission leaders in Brazil, to talk about the unique highs, unprecedented struggles, and powerful lessons of guiding missionaries through extraordinary times.The Horsley's share their journey—from their initial call to serve, to navigating the complexities of a mission field dramatically altered by COVID-19. They open up about the heartbreak of seeing missionaries depart, the miracle of technology arriving just in time, and the innovative ways they fostered connection and spiritual growth. They dive into the hardest parts of leading through uncertainty, the moments that revealed the enduring power of faith, and the unexpected ways trials can forge unbreakable testimonies. Whether you're a returned missionary, preparing to serve, or simply seeking inspiration, the Horsleys' story is a must-listen. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on faith, resilience, and finding light in challenging times!

Brett and Amy Horsley: The Lord's Work Never Stops Part 1

Ever wondered what it’s like to lead a mission during a global pandemic? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brett and Amy Horsley, former mission leaders in Brazil, to talk about the unique highs, unprecedented struggles, and powerful lessons of guiding missionaries through extraordinary times.The Horsley's share their journey—from their initial call to serve, to navigating the complexities of a mission field dramatically altered by COVID-19. They open up about the heartbreak of seeing missionaries depart, the miracle of technology arriving just in time, and the innovative ways they fostered connection and spiritual growth. They dive into the hardest parts of leading through uncertainty, the moments that revealed the enduring power of faith, and the unexpected ways trials can forge unbreakable testimonies. Whether you're a returned missionary, preparing to serve, or simply seeking inspiration, the Horsleys' story is a must-listen. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on faith, resilience, and finding light in challenging times!

Marla Gale & Gather Gems: Gathering Israel & Missionary Work Beyond the Name tag

In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Marla Gale, Co-Founder of Gather Gems jewelry, to explore the beautiful intersection of missionary work, motherhood, and the gathering of Israel. Maria, a mother of five, shares her journey of finding her own unique missionary path despite not serving a traditional mission. She explains how the spirit of missionary work can thrive in any season of life—especially through motherhood, which she describes as a sacred, lifelong mission with profound similarities to formal missionary service. The conversation delves into President Nelson's call for all members to participate in gathering Israel, with Maria explaining how her passion led to creating faith-inspired jewelry that celebrates each person's unique spiritual gifts. "God is probably anxiously excited," Maria shares. "I picture the gathering like we're getting ready for this big celebration." Both discuss how stepping out of our comfort zones invites divine help, whether as missionaries, mothers, or in any service capacity. Maria offers heartfelt encouragement for listeners feeling called to do more: "If you have desires to serve God, you are called to the work," referencing Doctrine and Covenants section 4. She emphasizes that God will use our unique talents—even ones we don't know we have yet—if we simply ask Him how we can help gather Israel in our own way. Whether you're a returned missionary, a mother finding your way, or someone searching for your place in this great work, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom for contributing to the gathering of Israel in ways both bold and quiet. Listen now for a conversation that will inspire you to embrace your unique role in God's accelerating work. Gather Gems Website: https://gathergems.com