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Season 2, Episode 8: “Remember, Remember” — Elder Chi Hong Wong (with Special Guests Robin & Ken Purnell) In this week’s episode of Conference TALKS, we explore Elder Chi Hong Wong’s message, “Remember, Remember,” with special guests Robin and Ken Purnell. We reflect on the spiritual importance of remembering and recognizing God’s hand in our lives, holding onto the experiences that have strengthened our faith, and allowing those memories to anchor us to Jesus Christ through every season of life. Robin and Ken bring a wealth of life experience and faithful discipleship to this conversation. Married since 1982, they raised four children and are now grandparents to five. Their journey together has included decades of Church service, careers in education and industry, missionary service in the Canada Winnipeg Mission, and experiences of both tremendous joy and profound loss. Through it all, their faith, family, and commitment to Jesus Christ have remained at the center of their lives. Ken served as a young missionary in South Africa and has served in many Church callings, including bishop and elders quorum president. Robin has spent much of her life teaching and has served in Primary, Young Women, and Relief Society leadership. Today, they continue serving together as adult Sunday School teachers. This heartfelt conversation reminds us that remembering is more than simply looking back. As we intentionally remember the Lord’s goodness, the people who have shaped us, and the experiences that have brought us closer to Him, those memories can become a source of faith, gratitude, strength, and hope for the road ahead. We loved having Robin and Ken join us and hope this episode encourages you to pause and remember the ways God has been present in your own story.

🎙️ Season 2, Episode 7: “I Glory in My Jesus” — Elder Aaron T. Hall (with Special Guest Olivia Anderson) In this episode of Conference TALKS, we explore Elder Aaron T. Hall’s powerful message, “I Glory in My Jesus,” with special guest Olivia Anderson. Together, we reflect on what it truly means to “glory” in Jesus Christ and how a heart rooted in gratitude can deepen our relationship with Him and sustain us through life’s challenges. This conversation centers on the power found in the names of Jesus Christ—and how choosing specific, meaningful names can help us form a more personal and real connection with the Savior. As we learn of Him, listen to Him, and walk with Him, we come to understand that no matter our circumstances, we can always glory in Him. Throughout this episode, Olivia shares personal insights and invitations, encouraging listeners to reflect on the names of Jesus Christ that are most meaningful to them—such as Creator, a name that resonates deeply with her love of nature, gardening, and art. We also explore the deeper meaning behind Christ’s invitation to “be of good cheer”—not as surface-level positivity, but as a call to take heart, stand firm, and choose courage in the face of trials. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that as we intentionally turn to Jesus Christ, we can find strength, purpose, and peace—and learn to truly glory in Him.

Season 2, Episode 6: “Eternal Marriage Is an Eternal Journey” — Elder Neil L. Andersen (Father’s Day Special) In this special Father’s Day episode of Conference TALKS, Mike and Steve come together to discuss Elder Neil L. Andersen’s message, “Eternal Marriage Is an Eternal Journey.” This heartfelt conversation explores the sacred role of fathers, the beauty and challenge of marriage, and the eternal perspective that comes through covenant relationships. Reflecting on their own experiences, Mike and Steve speak candidly about the privilege and joy of fatherhood, while also acknowledging the real struggles, growth, and refinement that come along the way. Together, they discuss powerful themes from Elder Andersen’s talk, including: The eternal significance of covenants and the sealing powerHow marriage and family life are meant to shape and refine us over timeThe importance of inviting God into our relationshipsRelying on the Holy Ghost for guidance, strength, and clarity in a complex worldChoosing joy, gratitude, and connection in the everyday moments of family life This episode is an honest and uplifting reminder that eternal marriage is not about perfection—it’s about progression, partnership, and becoming who God desires us to be. Whether you’re a father, a spouse, or simply striving to build stronger relationships, this conversation invites you to center your life more fully on Jesus Christ and His power to heal, strengthen, and guide. We hope this Father’s Day episode leaves you feeling encouraged, uplifted, and reminded of the divine purpose in your relationships.

Season 2, Episode 5: “The Character of Christ” - President D. Todd Christofferson (with Special Guest Austin Nunn) In this episode of Conference TALKS, we dive into President D. Todd Christofferson’s powerful message, “The Character of Christ,” with special guest Austin Nunn. We explore the deeper motivations that defined the Savior’s life and how we can strive to develop those same Christlike attributes in our own lives. Focusing on three central themes from the talk charity, ministering, and devotion to the will of God. This conversation highlights what it means to truly center our lives on Jesus Christ. We reflect on how developing the pure love of Christ, caring intentionally for others, and aligning our will with God’s can transform not only our actions, but our hearts and desires. This was a meaningful and uplifting discussion filled with insights and practical ways to move forward with greater purpose—placing God and Jesus Christ at the center of everything we do. About Our Guest: Austin Nunn grew up in Vanderhoof, British Columbia, and served a mission in Rochester, New York. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from Utah State University and taught school in Utah for 10 years before moving to Cardston, Alberta, where he has served as a school administrator for the past 16 years. Austin has served in various Church callings and was recently released after 9 years in the Cardston Alberta West Stake presidency. He loves riding and training horses and is married to Kaylynn Nunn. Together, they have four daughters and three grandchildren. We hope this episode inspires you to reflect on the motivations behind your own actions and to more fully develop the character of Christ in your daily life. Resources: “To Walk Humbly with Thy God” Marlin K. Jensen https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2001/04/to-walk-humbly-with-thy-god?lang=eng

Most of us have read the same stories about Eve, Mary, and Hagar for our whole lives. But what if the tradition got them wrong? In this special Mother's Day episode, Steve and Mike step away from their usual conference talk format to dig into the original Hebrew of Genesis and the scholarship of three remarkable researchers — Dr. Jeffrey Chadwick, Dr. Rebekah Call, and Dr. Carli Anderson. What they found reframes these women not as supporting characters, but as equal partners in God's plan — and as the original models of courageous, vision-driven leadership. Eve wasn't the cautionary tale. Hagar wasn't the footnote. Mary wasn't the passive vessel. The texts, read carefully, give them back. And in doing so, they just might give us a clearer picture of the women leading alongside us right now.

Season 2, Episode 3: “Prayers for Peace” — President Henry B. Eyring (with Special Guest Angela Couch) In this episode of Conference TALKS, we explore President Henry B. Eyring’s message, “Prayers for Peace,” with special guest Angela Couch. Together, we discuss what it truly means to seek and receive peace—not just as the world defines it, but as God offers it. This conversation thoughtfully considers how our personal expectations of peace can differ from the peace the Savior provides, and how we can navigate both the turmoil in the world around us and the challenges within our own lives. We also reflect on the power of prayer, how sincere, faith-filled prayers can invite peace into our hearts, influence our relationships, and bring about meaningful change within ourselves and others. ✨ About Our Guest: Angela K. Couch is a homeschooling mother of six and a historical novelist writing for the Christian community. She has served in various callings in the Church, including as a missionary in Vladivostok, Russia, and brings a thoughtful, faith-filled perspective to this discussion. This episode is a gentle reminder that peace is not just something we hope for—it’s something we can actively seek through prayer and through turning our hearts to Jesus Christ.

Season 2, Episode 2: “Alive in Christ” — President Dallin H. Oaks In this episode of Conference TALKS, Mike, Steve, and Gabriella dive into President Dallin H. Oaks’ powerful message, “Alive in Christ.” Together, they explore three key themes from his talk: the reality of the Resurrection, the commandment to love our enemies, and the call to be peacemakers. This conversation expands on what it truly means to be alive in Christ—not just in doctrine, but in how we live, think, and interact with others. The hosts reflect on the eternal perspective of identity beyond death and how a firm belief in the Resurrection can transform our relationships, soften hearts, and open the door to healing and reconciliation. Through honest discussion and personal insight, this episode highlights how Christ’s teachings invite us to live with greater compassion, extend grace more freely, and actively work toward peace in our families, communities, and daily lives. We hope this conversation encourages you to more fully embrace what it means to live as disciples who are truly alive in Jesus Christ.

🎙️ Season 2, Episode 1: Becoming Anchored in Jesus Christ Welcome to Season 2 of Conference TALKS! In this opening episode, we take time to look ahead at the next six months of the podcast and set our intentions to study General Conference more deeply, thoughtfully, and with greater focus on the Saviour. As we reflect on the most recent General Conference, we discuss what made it especially meaningful and how each message ultimately pointed to Jesus Christ—His life, His Atonement, His sacrifice, and His Resurrection. This episode centers on the importance of becoming firmly anchored in Him and allowing His teachings to shape our discipleship. We also share our vision for the coming season and our excitement for future conversations with incredible guests who will help us continue learning, growing, and applying Conference teachings in our everyday lives. We are so grateful to have you with us on this journey and can’t wait for what’s ahead.

🎙️ Episode 28: Reviewing the Last 6 Months & Looking Ahead to April 2026 General Conference In this special episode of Conference TALKS, hosts Mike Parker and Gabriella Parker take a moment to reflect on the past six months of the podcast journey and look ahead with anticipation to the upcoming April 2026 General Conference. Together, we share insights, lessons learned, and meaningful experiences from starting and growing the podcast—highlighting how these conversations have deepened our faith and understanding of the gospel. We also discuss how to thoughtfully prepare for General Conference, offering simple ideas to help listeners approach the upcoming sessions with intention, openness, and a desire to receive personal revelation. This episode is both a reflection and an invitation—to pause, look back with gratitude, and look forward with faith. We are so grateful for each of you who listens, shares, and participates in this journey with us. 💛

🎙️ Episode 27: “Go and Do Likewise” — Elder James E. Evanson (with Special Guest Garth McDonald) In this week’s episode of Conference TALKS, we explore Elder James E. Evanson’s General Conference message, “Go and Do Likewise.” Joined by our special guest Garth McDonald, we reflect on the sacred role of service in both missionary work and everyday discipleship. Together, we discuss how service becomes the Lord’s hands in the lives of others, and why simple acts of kindness, connection, and compassion often open the door to trust, love, and meaningful opportunities to share gospel truths. This conversation is a reminder that we do not need grand gestures to make a difference—often it is the quiet, consistent ways we show up for others that matter most. ✨ About Our Guest: Garth McDonald has had a wide-ranging career marked by leadership, service, and a passion for helping people grow. He began working with Canadian National Railway at 17 and spent 19 years there, eventually serving in training and leadership roles within the engineering department. Later, he pursued studies in Marketing and Organizational Behaviour, went on to own and operate three Shell gas stations in Grande Prairie, and built experience in manufacturing, sales, and systems development. Garth is a certified ISO 9001-2000 Auditor, an award-winning ActionCOACH business coach, and a dedicated systems builder who believes that “systems run companies, people run systems, and you manage people.” He is married to Courtney, and together they have three daughters and twelve grandchildren. Today, Garth continues to mentor and support businesses while helping others discover their purpose and “why.” This episode is practical, uplifting, and full of reminders that Christlike service begins with simply seeing people, loving them, and choosing to act. We hope you enjoy this meaningful conversation. 💛

🎙️ Episode 26: “The Good News Recipe” — Elder John D. Amos (with Special Guest Blake Bevans) In this week’s episode of Conference TALKS, we explore Elder John D. Amos’s General Conference message, “The Good News Recipe.” Joined by our special guest, Blake Bevans, we reflect on Elder Amos’s powerful analogy comparing the principles and commandments of the gospel to the ingredients in a recipe for a joyful, Christ-centered life. Together, we discuss how small, consistent acts of faith—prayer, service, repentance, and discipleship—gradually shape us into the people God desires us to become. As we faithfully add these “ingredients” to our lives, our capacity grows: we become more able to receive God’s blessings, develop Christlike attributes, and experience deeper happiness and purpose. ✨ About Our Guest: Blake Bevans was born and raised in Cardston, Alberta, and served as a full-time missionary in Ogden, Utah. He later earned a degree in Human Resources from BYU Provo. Blake now lives and works in Lethbridge, Alberta, where he enjoys spending his free time running, reading, and sharing his love for Jesus Christ with others. This episode is a thoughtful and uplifting reminder that the gospel works much like a recipe—when we follow the Savior’s invitations with faith and consistency, the results are transformative. We hope this conversation encourages you to keep adding the small, faithful ingredients that lead to a life centered on Christ.

🎙️ Episode 25: “Adorned with the Virtue of Temperance” — Elder Ulisses Soares (with Special Guest Dave Pilling) In this week’s episode of Conference TALKS, we dive into Elder Ulisses Soares’ General Conference message, “Adorned with the Virtue of Temperance.” Joined by our special guest Dave Pilling, we explore what temperance truly means—not just as moderation, but as spiritual strength, self-mastery, and Christ-centered discipline. Together, we define temperance in practical terms and discuss how to cultivate it in everyday life. Through real-life stories and honest reflections, we examine moments where restraint, patience, and spiritual clarity made a powerful difference—often leading to meaningful change in relationships, decisions, and faith. ✨ About Our Guest: Dave Pilling grew up in the thriving metropolis of Leavitt, Alberta, where he lived in the same bedroom for 18 years as the only boy among five sisters. He served in the Salt Lake City South Mission and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Calgary—skills he now applies while driving a Zamboni and running a small landscaping business. Dave is married to Cari, and together they are raising seven children (five daughters and two sons), spending most of their time enthusiastically supporting their kids at sporting events and activities. This episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and practical application—reminding us that temperance isn’t weakness, but strength under control. We hope this conversation encourages you to cultivate greater balance, patience, and spiritual maturity in your own life. 💛

🎙 NEW EPISODE — Conference TALKS PodcastEpisode 24 (Part 2): “Smiling Faces and Grateful Hearts” Elder Carlos A. Godoy | with special guest Sophia Parker In Part 2 of this beautiful conversation, we’re joined by Sophia Parker, who is currently living and working in the Dominican Republic, teaching English to children. Sophia shares tender experiences from stepping outside of her comfort zone and following quiet spiritual promptings to serve. As she reflects on her time abroad, we talk about recognizing the tender mercies of God that come when we act in faith—especially when we feel stretched, uncertain, or far from home. This episode explores how gratitude deepens when we choose to trust the Spirit, serve others, and allow God to guide our steps. Joy doesn’t always come from ease—but from obedience, connection, and seeing the Lord’s hand in small, sacred moments. We hope this conversation encourages you to notice the gentle ways God is working in your own life. 🎧 Now available wherever you listen to podcasts. #ConferenceTALKS #SmilingFacesGratefulHearts #TenderMercies #FaithInAction #Gratitude #ServingWithLove #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney

🎙️ Episode 24: “Smiling Faces and Grateful Hearts” — Elder Carlos A. Godoy (with Special Guest Lisa Ursenbach) In this week’s episode of Conference TALKS, we reflect on Elder Carlos A. Godoy’s inspiring General Conference message, “Smiling Faces and Grateful Hearts.” Joined by special guest Lisa Ursenbach, this conversation centers on how we can cultivate genuine gratitude and lasting joy—regardless of our circumstances or material means. Drawing from recent humanitarian experiences in Mexico, Lisa and Mike share meaningful reflections from building homes and connecting with families who, despite limited resources, radiate faith, joy, and resilience. Lisa also shares insights from her years serving in Honduras as a missionary and working with their Haitian community in California—experiences that have deeply shaped her understanding of gratitude, perspective, and spiritual strength. Together, we explore how joy is not dependent on comfort or abundance, but is rooted in our relationship with Jesus Christ. When Christ becomes the center of our lives, gratitude becomes natural, perspective shifts, and even in difficulty, we can experience peace and blessings. This episode is a beautiful reminder that a grateful heart and a Christ-centered life can transform the way we see everything. We hope it uplifts and encourages you.

Episode 23: “Forsake Not Your Own Mercy” — Elder Matthew S. Holland (with Special Guest Rebecca Anderson) In this week’s episode of Conference TALKS, we explore Elder Matthew S. Holland’s General Conference message, “Forsake Not Your Own Mercy,” and reflect on the profound doctrines of the Fall, our covenant relationship with God, and the invitation to fully receive the mercy that has always been extended to us through Jesus Christ. Joined by our special guest Rebecca Anderson, this conversation examines what it means to surrender to God, release shame and self-judgment, and trust in His unfailing grace. Together, we discuss how covenant belonging—rooted in ḥesed (God’s steadfast, loyal love)—creates space for healing, transformation, and renewed identity. ✨ About Our Guest: Rebecca Anderson is a registered mental health therapist based in Alberta, Canada, specializing in trauma, attachment, and emotional regulation. She is passionate about thoughtfully integrating faith and psychology in ways that support healing, wholeness, and personal growth. Rebecca works primarily with teens and adults and is known for her compassionate approach to helping individuals build self-trust, resilience, and deeper connection with themselves, others, and God. This episode offers a tender and insightful discussion on mercy—not as something we must earn, but as a gift we are invited to receive. We hope it brings reassurance, clarity, and a deeper sense of peace as you consider the Savior’s invitation to come unto Him.