In this powerful episode, host Will Humphreys sits down with Keith Harr, a 30-year veteran of Seminary and Institute, husband of 45 years, father of 9, and grandfather of 38 for a conversation that will change how you think about covenant living, parenting, and the infinite power available to you through your sacred promises with God.

Keith and Will met on a service trip to Kenya, and from the moment they started talking, it was clear Keith carries hard-won, deeply practical wisdom about how the gospel actually works in real family life.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why covenants aren't just promises, they are conduits of power, and how to access that power daily
• The 5 levels of temple covenants and how they connect to the Abrahamic Covenant (posterity, land, and the priesthood/gospel)
• How the world's greatest crises: pornography, broken families, loss of identity are direct attacks on those same Abrahamic covenants
• The offense vs. defense framework for raising covenant-keeping children in the latter days
• How to build individual, one-on-one, and family spiritual rhythms that don't feel forced
• Why your child bringing their heart to you is like an offering on an altar, and how to receive it with tenderness

Connect with Temple Bound

• Instagram: @TempleBoundPodcast
• Host: Will Humphreys

Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review and share this episode with someone who needs a boost of confidence today!

• The "secret handshake" principle: how to stay relationally connected to your kids as they grow and change
• Why parenting shame often comes from the adversary, and how the Atonement covers your imperfect parenting too
• The surprising connection between covenant living, service, gratitude, and anxiety relief
• How consecration isn't just giving everything away, it's accessing God anytime, anywhere

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful return episode, Curtis Keller joins host Will Humphreys for one of the most heartfelt conversations yet on Temple Bound. Curtis opens up about how a book recommendation from a friend transformed his approach to prayer, moving from rushed, going-through-the-motions prayers to intentional, timer-set, 10-minute morning conversations with God. That shift opened the door to a deeper reckoning: Do we really understand what it means to rely wholly upon the merits of Jesus Christ, or are we secretly trying to save ourselves?

This episode touches on grace vs. works, what "after all we can do" really means, the protective power of temple worship for our families, and how to keep parenting in faith even when children exercise their agency in unexpected ways. Curtis also shares his favorite temple quotes from Elder Bednar, Elder Vaughn J. Featherstone, President Nelson, and Richard G. Scott, drawn from the binder he's kept for years that first inspired this podcast.

We go deep on:

• The prayer habit that transformed Curtis's mornings (hint: a timer is involved)
• Why 15 minutes of daily prayer = exactly 1% of your day, and what that number should make us feel
• What "after all we can do" actually means, and why the common interpretation is quietly exhausting
• How the veil of the temple is a symbol of Jesus Christ, and why passing through it is a picture of pure grace
• What to do when your children make choices that break your heart
• Elder Bednar, President Nelson, Elder Featherstone & Elder Richard G. Scott quotes from Curtis's legendary binder

This episode will change how you pray. It will change how you attend the temple. And it might just bring peace to a parent who's been trying too hard to be their child's savior.

Resources Mentioned:

Temple Quote Binder Copy - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1hMuPlfsN8dbYoCk5WAerBJt0Qpe0Ul-M?usp=sharing

Send us Fan Mail

This week on Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys sits down with Toni Gaines and Janelle Hillyer, the creators and hosts of the Every Temple Podcast. Together, they explore the fascinating intersection of architectural detail, local history, and the profound sacrifices made by Saints across the globe to bring these holy houses to life.

Toni and Janelle share how their deep dive into the "spirit of the building" has revealed a global tapestry of faith, proving that the restoration of the gospel isn’t just a past event, it is an unfolding evolution written in stone and glass.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• The Symbolism in the Details: Why local flora and culture (like the agave in Arizona or the lanterns in Tokyo) are intentionally woven into temple designs to connect the building to the people.
• Miracles Behind the Iron Curtain: The incredible story of the Freiberg Germany Temple and how a request for "forgiveness" paved the way for a temple in a communist state.
• The Global Family: Will shares his personal experiences at the Tokyo and Johannesburg temples, reflecting on how travel and temple worship act as a "cure for prejudice."
• The Law of Sacrifice: Stories from the Philippines to Guatemala of Saints bailing out flooded basements and traveling for days to serve, illustrating how sacrifice creates a sense of "ownership" in the Lord’s house.
• A "Restoration" of Every Temple: How the evolution of temple building mirrors our own spiritual growth, messy, iterative, and deeply personal.

Featured Temples in This Episode:

• Gilbert Arizona Temple: Desert symbolism and the agave plant.
• Tokyo Japan Temple: Finding a nature preserve in the middle of chaos.
• Freiberg Germany Temple: A beacon of light in East Germany.
• Manila Philippines Temple: Miraculous protection during a government coup.
• Johannesburg South Africa Temple: The connecting link to Nauvoo.
• Guatemala City Temple: A history of incredible distance and dedication.

Connect with Our Guests:

Toni Gaines and Janelle Hillyer are the hosts of the Every Temple Podcast, where they are on a mission to document the history, miracles, and unique details of every temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Follow Every Temple Podcast:

• Instagram: (@EveryTemple) https://www.instagram.com/everytemplepodcast/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EveryTemplePodcast
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/fi/podcast/every-temple-podcast/id1788219184
• Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3MFwojsSX5Fm45lD0dZwGj

Send us Fan Mail

How do we keep going when life feels heavy and the adversary whispers that we aren't enough? In this episode, Kristen Walker Smith joins Will Humphreys for a soul-stretching deep dive into the teachings of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.

Together, they peel back the layers of the "simple" gospel to reveal its true power: the ability to transform despair into hope and trials into divine refinement. Kristen opens up about her personal journey with mental health, the life-changing impact of apostolic words, and why gratitude is the ultimate weapon against discouragement. This isn't just a conversation about surviving; it’s a masterclass on drawing closer to the Savior and claiming your identity as a child of God.

Key Takeaways:

On the Nature of Trials

• The Gratitude Antidote: Gratitude isn’t just a "nice to have", it is a powerful tool to neutralize despair.
• Pain vs. Suffering: While pain is often inevitable, the suffering caused by despair is something we can navigate with faith.
• The Refiner’s Fire: Finding specific blessings within trials can fundamentally shift your perspective from victim to victor.

On Gospel Simplicity

• Simple, Not Easy: The gospel is fundamentally straightforward, but walking the path requires daily courage.
• Divine Potential: We are never defined by our sins or our stumbles, but by our eternal potential to grow.
• The Invitation of Repentance: Repentance is a joyful invitation for improvement, not a punishment for failure.

On Spiritual Support

• Apostolic Anchors: Elder Holland’s words serve as a bridge to personal revelation and guidance.
• Help Across the Veil: You are never alone; there is active support coming from both sides of the veil in your moments of struggle.
• Authenticity Wins: Being open about our trials fosters the deep, authentic connections we all crave.

We Want to Hear From You!

Our mission is to share stories that bridge the gap between our earthly struggles and our eternal potential. If this episode touched you, or if you know someone with a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and temple worship:

• Comment below with your suggestions for future guests you’d like to see on the show.
• Share this episode with a friend who might need to hear that they are "freaking loved" today.
• Subscribe so you never miss these essential conversations.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we sit down with Tanya Kimball. Over the last 18 months, Tanya has navigated the unimaginable loss of her husband, Drew, and two of her sons, Braden and Grahm.

This conversation isn't just about tragedy; it’s a masterclass in the "paradigm of two truths" how extreme sorrow and extreme miracles can exist in the same moment. Tanya shares her raw experience with "dying without death," the power of recording daily "evidence of God," and how the temple became her survival-grade "modern-day Liahona."

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The "Silent Saturday" Perspective: Understanding the gap between the "Friday" of crucifixion/loss and the "Sunday" of resurrection/promises.
• Mental Health Stewardship: Why asking your child "What is your biggest worry?" can be a life-saving intervention.
• The God of Compensation: How Tanya identifies miracles and "heart rocks" amidst devastating grief.
• Recruiting an Army of Angels: The literal power of family history and temple work in providing strength to those still on earth.
• The "I Freaking Love You" Legacy: How a simple phrase from Tanya’s husband became a movement of connection and validation.

We know that the topics of grief, suicide, and mental health are heavy, and we hope Tanya’s story provided a beacon of light for whatever "Saturday" you might be walking through.

We Want to Hear From You!

Our mission is to share stories that bridge the gap between our earthly struggles and our eternal potential. If this episode touched you, or if you know someone with a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and temple worship:

• Comment below with your suggestions for future guests you’d like to see on the show.
• Share this episode with a friend who might need to hear that they are "freaking loved" today.
• Subscribe so you never miss these essential conversations.

We’ll see you next week, but until then, keep looking for your own "evidence of miracles."

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful episode, Will Humphreys sits down with Nathan Shields for a deep dive into the progressive nature of the covenant path. Nathan brings a unique "triad" of talks to the table, connecting the dots between an emotional testimony, the deepening of conversion, and the ultimate step of lifelong consecration.

Together, they explore the transition from knowing the gospel is true to becoming a new being through Jesus Christ. From the "on fire" delivery of Elder Kevin Brown to the apostolic clarity of Elder David A. Bednar and the profound insights of Elder Neal A. Maxwell, this conversation is a roadmap for anyone looking to bridge the gap between "sowing" righteous actions and "reaping" spiritual transformation.

Key Takeaways

• The Path as a Cycle: Discipleship isn't a one-and-done staircase; it is a "rinse and repeat" cycle of gaining testimony, deepening conversion, and submitting our will through consecration.
• Defining "The Gap": That space between doing the right thing and feeling the reward has a name: Faith.
• The Only True Gift: Following Elder Maxwell’s teaching, the only uniquely personal thing we have to place on God’s altar is our individual will.
• Losing Self to Find Identity: Consecration isn't about losing your personality or hobbies (like quilting!); it’s about losing the "old self" to find your true, upgraded identity in Christ.
• The Power of Daily Repentance: Repentance isn't just a correction to the path—it is the path. It is the process by which our desires are educated and our hearts are changed. 

Send us Fan Mail

What do you do when you’ve followed the "checklist" of a faithful life, yet your world seems to be crumbling? In this powerful episode of Temple Bound, we sit down with Kristen Smith, who opens up about the raw, often lonely journey of navigating a decades-long marriage after her husband stepped away from the Church.

Kristen shares how she moved from a place of judgment, physical exhaustion, and "three-day-long stays in bed" to a life of vibrant health and deep, unconditional love. We dive into the profound shift that occurred when she stopped trying to "fix" her husband and started allowing the Savior to transform her own heart.

Key Moments in This Episode:

• The "Right Things" Trap: Dealing with the confusion and pain that arise when life doesn't align with our gospel expectations.
• Healing the Three Temples: How Kristen integrated physical health, mental clarity through coaching, and spiritual grounding to find peace.
• The Shift from Judgment to Love: Learning to see a spouse’s different path not as a personal offense, but as an opportunity to love like the Savior.
• Finding Stillness in the House of the Lord: Kristen’s unique take on using temple worship as a space for meditation and receiving personal revelation.
• Miracles of Connection: How changing herself—not her husband—unexpectedly opened the door for them to discuss the gospel and celebrate 30 years of marriage with more joy than ever.

Enjoyed this episode? Please leave us a review and share this story with someone who needs to hear that they aren't alone in their struggle.

Send us Fan Mail

What would you say to a group of young adults who are preparing for the temple, but live days away from the nearest one? In this episode, we are joined by Aly Brandon, President of Care for Life, who shares her experience leading a powerful fireside in Mozambique, Africa.

Aly dives deep into why the temple matters even when we aren't physically inside its walls. We explore the transition from viewing covenants as "contracts" to seeing them as a living covenant relationship with a God who knows us, loves us, and wants to help us. Whether you are preparing for your first time or have been attending for decades, this conversation offers a beautiful, foundational perspective on how the temple is meant to change our hearts and our everyday lives.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The Mozambique Experience: The unique spiritual landscape of Beira and the hunger of the young adults there for temple connection.
• Covenants vs. Contracts: Why President Nelson’s teachings on hesed (covenant love) shift the way we view our promises to God.
• The Three Elements of the Temple (Jeremiah 31:33):
  1. Establishing a Covenant Relationship.
  2. Receiving God’s Law in our inward parts.
  3. Being Changed and made holy.
• A Simple Way to Remember: Aly shares a clever hand-gesture tool to remember the five main covenants of the endowment.
• The Temple-Sacrament Connection: How the weekly sacrament acts as a "return and report" session for our temple commitments.
• Building Capacity: Aly explains the Care for Life philosophy of "layered leadership" and how helping others solve their own problems mirrors the way God empowers us.

What is one way the Lord wants you to prepare for the blessings of the temple right now, regardless of how close you live to one? Take a moment to write down the impression that comes to your heart.

Send us Fan Mail

In this special crossover episode, Wil Humphreys (host of Temple Bound) joins Julie and Kevin from the Teaching Restored podcast for a deep dive into how we share the beauty of the temple with those we love.

If you’ve ever felt like teaching the temple was just about checking off a list of "shoulds," this conversation is for you. Wil reframes temple worship not as a task to be completed, but as a divine antidote to the anxiety and disconnection facing youth and adults today.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The "Belonging" Antidote: How connecting to our ancestors and the House of the Lord can literally move the needle on anxiety and depression.
• Meeting Youth Where They Are: Moving past the "checklist" mentality to help teenagers feel seen, heard, and valued through the Savior.
• The Gift vs. The Wrapping Paper: A powerful analogy for understanding the symbolism of the endowment without getting lost in the "Old Testament" details.
• Redefining Our Language: Why shifting from "taking out" an endowment to "receiving" a gift changes our entire perspective.
• Patterns of Daily Living: How the five covenants made in the temple aren't just for the altar—they are patterns that help us become more like Jesus Christ every single day.

Connect with Temple Bound:

• Subscribe for more deep dives into temple worship.
• Follow us on social media for daily insights.

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when you walk away from the peak of a successful private equity career to answer a spiritual calling? In this episode of Temple Bound, we sit down with Peter Sturgeon, CEO of Mentors International, to discuss his profound shift from wealth-building to world-building.

Peter shares how a mission to India first broke his heart for the poor and how, years later, a series of powerful temple revelations guided him and his wife, Sarah, to "jump off the cliff" and dedicate their lives to entrepreneurship-based poverty alleviation. We explore the true meaning of the Law of Consecration, stories of staggering sacrifice from Saints in India and Kenya, and why the temple is the ultimate place to receive revelation—not just for our own problems, but for the needs of our global neighbors.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• The Pivot to Purpose: How Peter transitioned from a high-stakes business career to leading a global charity without looking back.
• Temple Revelation: The specific advice from a patriarch that helped Peter balance a grueling global travel schedule with his role as a father of five.
• Consecration vs. Sacrifice: Why Peter views the Law of Consecration as a "key to happiness" rather than a burden of guilt.
• Global Perspectives of Faith: Stirring stories of Indian Saints who sold everything they owned for a single trip to be sealed in the Hong Kong temple.
• The "Matatu" Miracle: How the growth of temples in places like Nairobi is changing the lives of Saints in Africa.
• Expanding Your "Neighbor" Definition: Practical ways to seek revelation for those outside your immediate circle and find meaning through local and global service.

Connect with Us

• Instagram: @TempleBoundPodcast
• Submit a Question: Leave a comment in the show notes with your thoughts on today's episode or suggestions for future guests!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Temple Bound, we sit down with recurring guest Brad Farr to dissect the core themes of the most recent General Conference. This was a unique session, marking the first conference following the passing of President Russell M. Nelson.

We discuss the "shifting focus" of the Church—moving from the rapid announcement of new temples to the sacred work of getting members inside to receive their ordinances. From the construction sites in Sierra Leone to the power of Primary songs, Brad identifies four transformative themes that bridge the gap between our everyday struggles and the power of godliness.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why President Oaks and the Quorum of the Twelve are "slowing down" temple announcements.
• The personal impact of the recent change to the temple recommend questions.
• How to find power in the temple when you're in the "trenches" of parenthood or life.
• The profound connection between temple covenants and overcoming personal anger or doubt.

Featured General Conference Talks:

• The Power of Ministering to the One — Elder Peter M. Johnson
• Taking Upon Us the Name of Jesus Christ — Elder Dale G. Renlund
• The Lord Is Hastening His Work — Elder Quentin L. Cook
• Tune Your Heart to Jesus Christ — Sister Tracy Y. Browning

Subscribe for more deep dives into the Covenant Path. Follow us on Instagram: @templeboundpodcast

Send us Fan Mail

How do you prepare for a journey where the destination is becoming like God? In this profound conclusion to our conversation with Michael King, we shift from the history of the temple to the personal application of its covenants. Mike breaks down the "why" behind the endowment through the eyes of Adam and Eve, revealing that the temple isn't just a ceremony—it’s a roadmap for the soul.

From the symbolic "fig leaves" we use to hide our imperfections to the "coat of skins" that represents the Savior’s ultimate covering, this episode explores how we can move from "blind obedience" to a deep, intentional relationship with Jesus Christ. If you’ve ever felt like the person you are in the temple is a stranger to the person you are in traffic, Mike’s insights on the "celestial mold" will offer you hope, humor, and a clear path forward.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• The First Temple Journey: How Adam and Eve’s experience in the Garden of Eden and the wilderness parallels the modern endowment.
• Fig Leaves vs. Coats of Skins: Why we often try to "fix" our sins through our own efforts, and how the Savior’s grace is the only true "covering."
• The "ASK" Principle: A unique breakdown of Asking, Seeking, and Knocking as a model for spiritual learning.
• The Five Laws of the Temple: How the laws of Obedience, Sacrifice, Gospel, Chastity, and Consecration are found throughout the Book of Moses.
• Zion and the Power of One: The "synergy" of the Law of Consecration and how being of "one heart and one mind" changes a community.
• The "Real You": How to conduct yourself in the "lower regions" of life using the memory of what you’ve seen "higher up" on the mountain of the Lord.

Send us Fan Mail

What happens inside a Latter-day Saint temple, and why does it matter?

In this episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys sits down with Jasmin Rappleye, a trusted voice in the Latter-day Saint digital space, for a conversation on temple preparation, ancient symbolism, sacred garments, and finding Jesus Christ throughout the temple endowment.

Whether you're preparing for your first temple visit, returning after a difficult experience, or looking for deeper meaning in worship, this episode offers practical guidance and spiritual insight.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why the Lord uses ancient rituals and symbols in temples, and how they connect to the Old Testament, the Abrahamic Covenant, and Jesus Christ
• How to prepare for a first temple visit with realistic expectations and practical guidance
• The meaning behind the temple garment through Adam & Eve, the Hebrew word kippur (“to cover”), and Christ’s Atonement
• What “tokens” symbolize and how they represent our journey back to God
• Why repetition deepens temple understanding over time
• How the temple narrative centers on mercy, redemption, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ
• How to support someone who had a difficult first temple experience
• Connections between sacred clothing in ancient religions and Latter-day Saint temple worship
• Why Christ is central to the endowment, even when not directly named

Subscribe to Temple Bound for more conversations on faith, temples, and discipleship. If this episode strengthened your testimony, leave a comment sharing one thing that helped you love the temple.

Send us Fan Mail

How does a 4-foot-8 grandmother complete 20,000 temple endowments? In this powerful episode of Temple Bound, we sit down with Michael King to explore the temple not just as a destination, but as a transformative journey. Mike shares the incredible legacy of his grandmother, Hilda, and dives deep into the "why" behind sacred ordinances, explaining how they are designed to "steel" us, fortify and strengthen us, for the trials of life.

From the symbolism of Jacob’s Ladder to the pre-mortal covenants we made to be "saviors on Mount Zion," this conversation reframes temple worship from a "have-to" obligation into a "get-to" gift. Whether you are a seasoned temple-goer or someone searching for peace amidst a "wrestle" with faith, Mike’s insights on "faith seeking understanding" will change the way you view your covenants.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• The Temple as a Journey: Why the temple mirrors the path of leaving home, experiencing the world, and returning to become like our Heavenly Parents.
• Steeling for the Battle: The meaning of being "steeled" (hardened and strengthened) by the endowment to face life’s winters and "mobs."
• The Legacy of 20,000 Endowments: The awe-inspiring true story of Mike’s grandmother and her tireless service in the Idaho Falls Temple.
• What is an "Ordinance"?: A deep dive into the word order—how physical gestures help us organize our lives after the "Holy Order" of the Son of God.
• Saviors on Mount Zion: The pre-mortal "partnership" we entered with the Lord to ensure every child of God has a chance to hear the name of Jesus Christ.
• Faith Seeking Understanding: Why having "many questions but no doubts" is a healthy, productive way to approach the gospel and the temple.

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when you do everything "right", you pray, you wait for a "yes" from the Lord, you marry in the temple, and it still ends in divorce?

In this moving episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys sits down with Sarah Bingham to discuss the raw and often unspoken reality of temple marriages that fail. Sarah shares her journey from "journaling to her future husband" at age eight to the devastating fallout of an eight-year marriage that left her shaking her fist at God.

Sarah opens up about the "Prodigal Son's Brother Syndrome", the pain of watching those who made poor choices seemingly get "celebrated" while you struggle to survive. She discusses how she reconciled the concept of eternal agency with temple covenants and how a literal hike toward forgiveness led to a miraculous softening of hearts.

Whether you are currently navigating a divorce, struggling with "cloudy days" of trauma, or trying to rebuild your trust in God’s plan, Sarah’s story is a powerful testament that through Christ, what is broken can indeed be mended.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The Conflict of the "Yes": How to handle the confusion when a marriage you felt prompted by God to enter doesn’t last.
• Agency vs. Covenants: Why God respects the agency of individuals even within the bounds of a temple sealing.
• The Healing Power of Nature: Sarah’s unique "forgiveness hikes" and finding God on the mountaintops when the temple felt too painful.
• The Miracle of Co-Parenting: How Sarah went from years of "ugly" legal battles to a peaceful, blended family dynamic that includes her ex-husband.
• Mish Mo Creations: Sarah’s new mission to start "missionary moments" through scripture-inspired apparel.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Shack (Movie/Book): A resource Sarah used to understand the forgiveness process.
• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk: A discussion on healing from trauma and how the body remembers the past.
• Mish Mo Creations: Check out Sarah’s line of intentional, scripture-based clothing https://bodysoulmaintenance.com/products/short-sleeve-unisex-t-shirt-1?
• Quotes by: President Russell M. Nelson, Elder Dale G. Renlund, and Sister Kristin M. Yee.

Send us Fan Mail

In this deeply moving and transformative episode of the Temple Bound Podcast, host Will Humphreys sits down with five remarkable young adults, Emmanuel Mwaringa, Esekom Kelly Etabo, Grace Aoko, Monicah Loko, Yvonne Koki  who share their personal journeys of survival, faith, and triumph after being rescued by Mully's Children's Family (MCF) in Kenya, Africa.

You will hear firsthand accounts of extreme poverty, abandonment, and abuse, and how the love, structure, and spiritual nourishment provided by Dr. Charles Mully and the MCF family turned their lives around. This episode is a testament to the power of hope, forgiveness, and Christ-centered intervention.

Key Stories & Highlights

• Emmanuel's Journey (Coastal Kenya):
  • Born into a challenging family situation where the absence of a male heir led to his mother's mistreatment.
  • His story of chronic illness, working dangerous physical labor (offloading cement) at age 14, and being rescued after collapsing from exhaustion.
  • His academic and artistic success, culminating in representing MCF and Africa in a music program tour in Canada.
  • Powerful Takeaway: "No situation is permanent... Read Jeremiah 29:11... Standing with God, and everything will be possible."
• Esekom (Nairobi Slum):
  • Rescued as an infant from the harsh, disease-prone environment of the Mathare slum, living in a mud shack.
  • Graduating with a degree in Construction and Property Management and now working to transform the slum area she came from.
  • Powerful Takeaway: Her commitment to following Dr. Mully's footsteps: "Instill love, instill discipline, instill hope... I want to really one day go there and transform [my back home]."
• Grace Aoko’s Path to Social Work (Eldoret Market):
  • Abandoned in an Eldoret market at the age of eight, left to wander until taken to a police station.
  • Her rescue by Dr. Mully from a children's remand home after he saw her joyful singing.
  • Her journey to get a Diploma in Community Development and Social Work and successfully reuniting and forgiving her mother.
  • Powerful Takeaway: "God cannot abandon us... There will always be a good Samaritan somewhere sent by God to take us through this life."
• Monicah's Global Recognition (Machakos County)
  • Rescued from a desperate home situation where she was often forced to escape to the forest to avoid mistreatment from cousins.
  • The overwhelming love and support she received from Dr. Mully and Mama Mully after an unexpected pregnancy in high school, where they encouraged her to continue her education.
  • Graduating with a degree and receiving a scholarship to study International Human Rights Law in the US.
  • Global Recognition: Her team placed third worldwide in an international criminal law moot court competition.
  • Powerful Takeaway: "Your past does not determine who you are, but where you are at that point. With your focus forward, then you can use that past as a driving force for you to achieve the best." (Note: The host/guest identifies this person as "Monica" late in the interview, but this name is already used. Since the transcript does not confirm a unique name, the description focuses on her unique achievement.)
• Yvonne's Story (Eastern Kenya):
  • Rescued as a destitute 14-year-old girl at risk of early marriage; her entire family of six siblings was eventually rescued by MCF.
  • She pursued a diploma in Agriculture, served in the MCF farm department for years, and now works in Dr. Mully's office after writing an impressive request letter.
  • Powerful Takeaway: Her belief that God is living: "People should trust that without God, nothing is possible. But with God, everything is possible."

Send us Fan Mail

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Vernesa, a remarkable 24-year-old woman who embodies selfless love and unwavering faith. We meet Vernesa at the newly dedicated Nairobi Kenya Temple just hours before she enters for the first time to perform baptisms for the dead.

Vernesa shares her harrowing yet inspiring life story:

• A Child of Trauma: At age six, Vernesa survived the accident that claimed her parents' lives. She was taken in by a loving family, but the ensuing years were marked by abuse from extended family members, forcing her to leave her new home around age 10.
• Mother Mildred's Embrace: Her life changed when Mildred, an extraordinary woman and member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, rescued her and brought her into an orphanage she ran. Mildred provided the love and healing that Vanessa desperately needed, becoming her third "mother." Vanessa describes the beautiful yet challenging environment of the orphanage, where older children cared for the younger ones, passing on a culture of love and service.
• An Unimaginable Loss & Call to Service: Just one year after Vernesa’s own baptism into the Church, Mother Mildred tragically passed away at age 40. In the wake of this devastating loss, the other orphans rallied, urging Vanessa to take Mildred's place. Vernesa chose to stay, becoming the mother figure for 272 orphans, 72 of whom she currently houses in a small, five-bedroom home after a flood destroyed the main orphanage building.
• Peace Through Christ: Amidst unbelievable challenges, managing a large family in confined spaces, addressing trauma, and securing basic needs, Vernesa reflects on how her faith in Jesus Christ is her constant source of peace and strength. She shares how prayer and the love of God have brought about daily miracles of provision and help.

Hear Vernesa’s powerful testimony about the ultimate form of leadership, motherhood, and the profound impact of extending kindness, even when you've seen the worst of humanity. Her story is a testament to the fact that God always keeps His promises, sending angels to help those who trust in Him.

Send us Fan Mail

Join us for a truly inspiring conversation with Dr. Charles Mulli, founder of the Mully Children's Family (MCF) in Kenya. Dr. Mulli shares his remarkable and miraculous life journey, beginning with being abandoned by his parents at age five and spending his childhood begging on the streets.

This episode traces his path from utter destitution to becoming a highly successful entrepreneur in Kenya, owning a fleet of buses and an oil distribution business. The pivotal moment came when God directed him to sell everything, his businesses, cars, and assets, to become a father to the fatherless.

Dr. Mulli details the spiritual struggle and the incredible faith required to transition from a life of wealth to serving the poorest of the poor. He recounts the early challenges of caring for children in a dry, barren land, including the tragic loss of children due to illness, and the subsequent miracles of provision, from finding unexpected money transfers to the incredible provision of water that has since transformed the land into an abundant, green ecosystem.

Today, MCF is recognized as the largest family in the world, having rescued and rehabilitated over 40,000 children. Discover the foundational principles of love, forgiveness, and spiritual nourishment that have enabled these children to grow up, become successful professionals (lawyers, doctors, professors), and carry on Dr. Mulli's legacy of leadership and service around the globe.

Key Takeaways:

• From Abandonment to Entrepreneurship: Dr. Mulli was abandoned at age five and grew up begging on the streets. He later channeled his work ethic into a lucrative business career, becoming one of Kenya's wealthiest individuals.
• The Pivotal Moment: His comfortable life was interrupted by a deep spiritual conviction, sparked by the sight of street boys watching his car—a scene that mirrored his own childhood. He felt called to become a father to the fatherless.
• The Power of Forgiveness: A profound message on the power of forgiveness heard in a church service saved him from committing suicide at age 16 and later enabled him to release his anger toward his father, becoming a core principle of MCF’s rehabilitation program.
• A Legacy of Miracles: Learn about the incredible divine intervention that sustained MCF, including the moment a missing car led to a three-year quest for purpose, and the unexpected financial transfers that ensured the ministry never ran dry.
• The Largest Family in the World: MCF has rescued and educated over 40,000 children, many of whom return as doctors, engineers, and teachers to serve the next generation.

Discover the miracles, the struggles, and the foundational principles of love and mentorship that have allowed Dr. Mulli to become a father to over 40,000 children and transform a dry, barren landscape into a thriving, self-sustaining family.

You can also watch the documentary about Dr. Mulli and MCF: The Mully Movie (available on Prime Video). https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Mully/0JGL274EWOE7V9N8U3TRQ8LWNN

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful episode of Temple Bound, we continue our deep dive into Mark’s groundbreaking book by exploring the second half, where ancient temples, Restoration revelation, and modern temple worship connect into one unified pattern.

Mark walks us through a sweeping scriptural and historical journey, from the Garden of Eden, to Adam-ondi-Ahman, to Mount Sinai, to the Tabernacle, and ultimately to the Restoration of temple ordinances in Kirtland.

If you’ve ever wondered:

• Did temples really exist anciently?
• How does Eden function as the first temple?
• Why did the Lord restore temple ordinances in our day?
• What exactly happened in the Kirtland Temple, and why does it matter today?

If this conversation strengthened your understanding and love of the temple, subscribe and share this episode with someone preparing to enter the House of the Lord.

Send us Fan Mail

In this incredibly insightful episode of Temple Bound, we sit down with Mark and Mandy Mathews, a Stake President and veteran Seminaries and Institutes teacher, and author of the groundbreaking book, Understanding Your Temple Experience. Mark shares the passion that drove him to write this vital guide, the heartbreak of a newly endowed student who felt "confused" by the temple endowment.

Mark explains how his book, praised by the hosts as the book they wish they had before their first temple experience, addresses the modern generation's need for greater transparency and preparation regarding sacred ordinances.

We explore how to effectively prepare for the temple, focusing on Mark's core framework: the temple is the Lord's invitation to meet with us here and now.

Key Takeaways You'll Discover:

• Preparing for God's Presence: Mark outlines the ultimate purpose of the temple: everything is a journey back to the presence of God.
• The Initiatory as Preparation: Understand the three phases of the Initiatory—washing, anointing, and clothing—as a necessary cleansing from the "blood and sins of this wicked generation" and a spiritual coronation ceremony .
• The Garment as a Sacred Symbol: Deepen your appreciation for the temple garment as a literal symbol of being "covered by Christ" and a daily affirmation of your covenants, armed with spiritual power.
• Seeing Past the "Wrapping Paper": Learn how to focus on the gifts of the endowment rather than getting distracted by the "Old Testament wrapping paper" of unfamiliar ritual and symbolism.
• The Endowment as a Vision: Mark explains why the endowment session is essentially an opportunity to receive a "visual revelation"—a sacred, personal vision of the Plan of Salvation, much like Moses and Abraham.
• Temple Marriage is the Gate: Discover the profound doctrinal truth that eternal marriage is the "gate to exaltation," unlocking the capacity to become like our Heavenly Parents and receive a "continuation of the seeds forever."
• President Nelson’s Promise: The one key takeaway Mark shares to help any sincere seeker: "Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find him in the temple."

Whether you are preparing for your first temple visit or seeking to deepen your understanding after years of attendance, this episode will provide the framework, knowledge, and comfort you need to appreciate the sacred beauty and power of the house of the Lord.

Send us Fan Mail

This week on Temple Bound, prepare for the most fun you've ever had listening to an episode! We welcome the incredibly talented and viral Latter-day Saint comedian and musician, Emily Pack.

Emily, known for her uplifting, positive, and hilarious ukulele songs about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints culture, shares her powerful conversion story—an arc filled with light and darkness, humor and healing.

She opens up about battling generalized anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and how mental health professionals encouraged her "Hail Mary" return to the Church, leading her to realize that true healing and purpose were found in the gospel.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• Laughter is of the Spirit: Emily discusses how her comedy is an expression of her testimony, emphasizing that the spirit is multilingual and that humor can be a profound way to share the truth and love of Jesus Christ.
• The Power of Belonging: Hear about Emily's journey from feeling like a "ghost" who didn't belong to realizing her place as a daughter of God, particularly within the walls of the temple.
• Temple Revelations: Emily shares intimate, funny, and powerful moments of receiving personal revelation in the temple, including a moving experience with a clipboard at the veil, which brought an unexpected sense of empowerment.
• Change in the Church: The conversation dives into recent changes in Church policies and practices, like the new temple garment styles, and how they relate to the unchanging Atonement of Jesus Christ (the "trunk of the tree").
• Live Performances: The episode is bookended by Emily performing beautiful and hilarious songs, including her viral "Tank Top Garment Song" and the beautiful hymn "The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning."

Join us for a conversation that will leave you laughing and deeply moved, as Emily reminds us all that we don't have to be anything other than 100% who we are to be a loved child of God.

Listen, subscribe, and share!

Send us Fan Mail

Host Will Humphreys welcomes former Primary President Lari Hunt for an inspired discussion on how even the youngest members of the Church can become powerful leaders in the work of salvation. Lari shares her journey, prompted by the direction of former General Primary President Joy D. Jones, to ignite a fire in her ward—starting with the Primary children.

This episode reveals the powerful, often-unseen potential of involving children in finding ancestors, indexing, and preparing names for temple ordinances. Lari shares incredible, faith-building experiences where children, sometimes as young as five, led adults (including their parents and ward leaders) in completing temple work.

Key Takeaways & Discussion Points:

• The Power of Peer Teaching (0:18:48): Lari emphasizes that you don't need to be a technology expert; it's often more powerful to learn alongside your child. When kids teach each other, they retain the concepts better and boost their confidence.
• A "Why" for Baptism and Beyond (0:29:18): Learn how to transfer the excitement of a child's baptism to temple and family history work, giving them a purpose (a "why") immediately after they are baptized.
• The 100 Ancestors in 100 Days Challenge (0:40:13): Hear the full, faith-promoting story of the ward-wide challenge that saw Primary children inspiring youth, adults, and even ward council members to complete 117 ordinances in the first year!
• Let the Kids Take the Wheel (0:48:20): Lari shares crucial advice on how to structure activities to let children lead the technology and the finding process, rather than the adults taking over.
• Anchor Your Testimony (0:56:25): Lari shares her powerful, multi-generational testimony of the promises and miracles that flow into your life when you put temple and family history work together.

This discussion is essential for Primary leaders, parents, and grandparents seeking spiritual inspiration and practical ways to involve their children in gathering Israel.

Send us Fan Mail

Will Humphreys with author and temple educator Melinda Wheelwright Brown to discuss her powerful book, An Endowment of Love: Embracing Christ’s Covenant Way of Living and Loving. This episode is a must-listen for anyone preparing for the temple or seeking a deeper, more expansive understanding of the covenants we make.

Melinda shares the key mental shifts that can transform the way we view the temple. Learn why we should think of the core covenants, obedience, sacrifice, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, chastity, and consecration, not as rigid laws, but as eternal principles of love that bless every relationship in our lives. Discover why the endowment is a "starting point, not a finish line," and how understanding God’s love as preceding everything we do is fundamental to our covenant path.

Key Takeaways:

• Reframing the Five Laws: Learn to view laws like obedience and sacrifice as principles of loyalty, trust, commitment, and investment in every relationship.
• Temple Anxiety: Melinda offers profound insights to relieve the pressure of the first visit, emphasizing that the core message is God’s love and your belonging.
• Thinking Bigger: Discover the expansive nature of the law of chastity as reverence for life and the law of consecration as a stewardship mindset—a partnership with Christ to build Zion.

Christ's Covenant Way of Living and Loving

Melinda re-frames the five temple covenants, offering a "bigger, more expansive idea" that helps us apply them instantly to our lives outside the temple doors: DOWNLOAD WORKSHEET HERE.

This insightful discussion will help you fine-tune your vision to see all things more divinely and apply the power of the temple instantly to your daily life.

Temple Bound is in Kenya!

We’ve officially arrived! From November 2nd to 9th, we’re partnering with a local group to help members of the Church attend the temple for the very first time.

Here’s how you can be part of this incredible experience:

• Follow the Journey: Tune in to our daily podcast episodes as we share stories and updates straight from Kenya. Follow us on all social media platforms to see the impact unfold in real time.
•  Support the Mission:We’re raising funds for essential medical supplies, food, and shelter for a local orphanage. Every donation makes a direct difference here on the ground. 

 Book Giveaway Alert!

We're giving away copies of An Endowment of Love by Melinda Wheelwright Brown! Want to win and dive deeper into these concepts?

How to Enter:

1. Listen to this episode of Temple Bound.
2. Answer this question (found within the episode discussion): What two basic premises does Melinda say can relieve the pressure of not knowing what's ahead in the temple?
3. Go and follow our Instagram page (@templeboundpodcast).
4. Find the giveaway post and comment your answer and tag two friends who would love this book!

Giveaway closes November 10, 2025. Winners will be notified via Instagram DM.

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful General Conference review episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys sits down with returning guest Brad Farr to break down the April 2026 General Conference through the lens of temples and covenants.

Brad brings statistical analysis, personal stories, and four remarkable thematic threads, what Will calls "The Bradford Flow"  that connect the entire conference into one unified, temple-centered message.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

The Bradford Flow: 4 Themes Connecting Temple & Covenant Teachings:

1. The Atonement and Resurrection Make Eternal Families Possible Talks by Elder Anderson, Elder Cook, and Elder McCulloch all pointed to the sealing power restored through Elijah and how Christ's resurrection is the foundation of eternal family doctrine. Brad shares a moving story from his workplace that illustrates how this teaching resonates even outside the faith.
2. Temple Covenants Give Us Access to Divine Power From Elder Holmes' blind marathon runner tethered to his guide, to Sister Freeman's quote from For the Strength of Youth, this section unpacks the real, tangible spiritual power available to those who make and keep temple covenants.
3. The Temple Strengthens Our Personal Relationship with God Elder Mutombo's deeply moving account of losing multiple children while being pressured by family to leave his wife, and finding peace through his temple sealing covenant, anchors this theme in real human experience.
4. Temple Covenants Transform Us to Become Christlike Elder Bednar's message on becoming new creatures in Christ, and Elder Tay's humble testimony of incremental change, remind us that transformation is a process, not an event.

Scriptures & Sources Referenced

• Doctrine & Covenants 49:16 — The purpose of marriage and the earth
• Matthew 5 — Love your enemies (Sermon on the Mount)
• Mosiah — The mighty change of heart
• For the Strength of Youth — Sister Freeman's quote on temple ordinances
• The Chosen series — Passover scene parallel to President Hinckley's quote

If this episode blessed you, share it with someone preparing for the temple, navigating a hard season of marriage, or curious about what Latter-day Saints believe about eternal families. 

Send us Fan Mail

Parenting can make it hard to inspire a passion for temple worship in our kids, but today’s guest, Jacki Hanks, shares a miraculous story that completely changed her family’s culture. What started as a competitive "game" between siblings snowballed into an outpouring of faith, resulting in her family completing over 15,000 temple ordinances in a single year!

Jacki shares the pivotal moment, a flat tire turned spiritual victory that ignited their fire for temple service. Hear how they leveraged family dynamics, technology like the Get Involved App, and a competitive spirit to co-create a sustainable, powerful, and deeply spiritual family tradition. This story is an unforgettable testament to the Spirit of Elijah and the blessings of making the temple a central part of family life.

Jacki's journey from feeling like a "loser" to seeing her entire family, friends, and community rally around a massive goal will inspire you to find the "game" that works for your family.

Key Takeaways & Discussion Points

• Finding the Game: How to create engaging, co-created experiences that make temple worship fun for your children.
• The Power of Resilience: Turning setbacks (like a flat tire) into spiritual victories, denying the adversary a win.
• Gamification & Technology: Leveraging apps like FamilySearch and the Get Involved App to make indexing and family history engaging.
• Consistency is Key: Why frequent temple attendance can become a spiritual "high" that families miss when it's absent.
• Thinking Big: Setting "impossible" goals (like 15,000 ordinances) to force exponential spiritual growth.

Travel Opportunity & Humanitarian Appeal!

Temple Bound is going to Kenya! From November 2nd through the 9th, we are partnering with a local group to help members of the church attend the temple for the very first time.

How you can join this effort:

1. Follow Us Remotely: Check out our daily podcast episodes while we're over there. Follow us on all social media platforms to track our journey and see the impact.
2. Donate: We are also raising money for crucial medical supplies, food, and shelter for a local orphanage. 
3. Come With Us: We have a limited number of seats available for those who want to join this effort of sharing good overseas! Please reach out to learn more.

Send us Fan Mail

In this inspiring episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys talks with Isabel Dizon "Sab" about her journey of finding deeper faith and resilience after a devastating typhoon hit her family in the Philippines.

The conversation takes a powerful turn as Sab describes the terrifying moment when Typhoon Egay (Typhoon Emong) flooded their home in La Union, Philippines, in July. With water rising fast and roads blocked by fallen trees, she and her husband led their terrified children in worship and prayer to find calm amidst the chaos. They lost their home and many possessions, yet they held onto a profound sense of hope.

Key Takeaways from Sab’s Story:

• Storms as a Path to Purpose: Sab shares her powerful realization: "Sometimes God allows storms not to break us but to bring us somewhere we are meant to be."
• Letting Go and Receiving Blessings: Amidst their losses, the family decided to let go of their destroyed possessions, trusting that God would provide. They were surprised by a small but significant miracle when appliances they thought were ruined still worked.
• Compensating Blessings: After being like "nomads" for months, moving between Airbnbs and family homes just for a shower and electricity, the family moved to a new home in Manila in October. Sab highlights the peace of mind and security they now have, as well as being closer to family, as compensating blessings from God.
• Greater Confidence in Christ: Sab’s biggest takeaway from the trial is a dramatically improved confidence in Christ. She learned to trust Him more deeply, realizing that God never leaves us, even in the storm.
• The Power of Hesed: Sab discusses the Hebrew word Hesed (loving-kindness or mercy), learning that God's faithful, unfailing love was made manifest through the kindness of Will, the Temple Bound team, and others who supported her family.
• Temple Bound as a Spiritual Tool: Sab shares how working on the podcast and engaging with the messages, even as a non-member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has transformed her personal faith and deepened her relationship with Jesus Christ. She realizes the temple is us and that we are all responsible for spreading the word of Christ.

Will and Sab also discuss the nature of temples for Latter-day Saints and the opportunity for everyone to visit a temple open house to learn more about the structure and covenants that unite us all in the love of the Savior.

Join us for this deeply moving and uplifting discussion on faith, resilience, and the power of finding Jesus in the midst of life's greatest challenges. You won't want to miss it.

Temple Bound is Going to Kenya!

Will you join us? Temple Bound is heading to Kenya, Africa, November 2nd through the 9th, to help a local group of members attend the temple for the first time! We are also raising money for an orphanage to provide medical supplies, food, and shelter.

How You Can Help:

1. Follow Us: Stay connected and follow our daily journey on social media! Follow us on Instagram: @TempleBoundPodcast
2. Donate: Support our humanitarian efforts via https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa

Come With Us: We have a limited number of seats! Reach out to join us in sharing this good work overseas.

Send us Fan Mail

Have you ever struggled with the feeling that you’re just not measuring up? In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the concept of toxic perfectionism and the freedom found in truly understanding the Savior’s commandment, "Be ye therefore perfect." Our guest Jeff Benintendi shares his intensely personal 25-year struggle with self-doubt and feeling unworthy, even while serving faithfully in the Church and as a temple worker.

Inspired by a talk from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, we explore how the adversary distorts the gospel’s ideals, turning commandments into a source of self-loathing and despair. Jeff recounts a powerful, life-changing blessing he received that instantly lifted the burden of his chronic lack of peace of conscience, opening the floodgates to finding joy in the temple and a new perspective on true worthiness.

We discuss the vital distinction between toxic perfectionism, the fruitless self-battering that Satan loves to encourage, and being perfected in Christ, a surrender to His power and a focus on His achievements over our own failures. Learn how to discern the negative, shaming whispers of the adversary from the loving, encouraging voice of the Spirit, and discover how to finally give up the impossible quest for perfect performance to embrace the joy of the Atonement.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who feels overwhelmed by the constant comparison of their "worst to everyone else's best," and who is ready to receive the peace that Christ offers.

Key Discussion Points:

• Elder Holland's sympathetic counsel on feelings of self-doubt and belonging.
• The adversary's masterful craft of turning covenants into curses and inspiration into self-loathing.
• How comparing your "worst" to others' "best" is a destructive path.
• The true meaning of the commandment to "Be ye therefore perfect" as a tribute to God and what we can achieve with Him.
• Jeff's 25-year struggle with feelings of unworthiness and the spiritual breakthrough that brought instant peace.
• Discerning between the Spirit's voice and the adversary's shaming whispers.
• Why "beating up on ourselves" is ineffective and harmful to true spiritual growth.
• The difference between toxic perfectionism (giving up the self-imposed, impossible performance) and being perfected in Christ (surrendering to the Savior's grace).

It's time to stop comparing your worst to everyone else's best. Discover the freedom in surrendering the impossible quest for perfect performance and embracing being perfected in Christ. Learn how to discern the shaming whispers of darkness from the loving voice of the Spirit, and find the joy and worthiness that are truly yours.

Temple Bound is Going to Kenya!

Will you join us? Temple Bound is heading to Kenya, Africa, November 2nd through the 9th, to help a local group of members attend the temple for the first time! We are also raising money for an orphanage to provide medical supplies, food, and shelter.

How You Can Help:

1. Follow Us: Stay connected and follow our daily journey on social media! Follow us on Instagram: @TempleBoundPodcast
2. Donate: Support our humanitarian efforts via https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa
3. Come With Us: We have a limited number of seats! Reach out to join us in sharing this good work overseas.

Thanks for listening! If this episode inspired you, please share it with a friend who might be contemplating temple service.

Send us Fan Mail

Is Your Life TOO Busy for Temple Service? Find Out Why Bart McDonald Said YES to Being an Ordinance Worker!

Many of us believe that serving as a temple ordinance worker is a calling reserved for retirement or when life finally slows down. But what if the Lord is asking you to serve right now, in the middle of your busiest season?

In this inspiring episode of Temple Bound, host Will speaks with Bart McDonald, a business builder, father, and former bishop who accepted the invitation to serve in the temple before his life quieted down.

Bart shares his personal journey of balancing a demanding work schedule (including a company merger!), raising a family, and serving in the Church, all while finding time to serve in the temple every week. Discover how this commitment profoundly changed his schedule, marriage, discipleship, and heart, proving that making an appointment with the Lord is possible, and vital, no matter how full your plate is.

Tune in to hear Bart discuss:

• The spiritual nudge to serve in the temple that just wouldn't leave him alone
• How the Lord "parted the Red Sea of time" to provide extra energy and sanity to his busy life
• His experience as a Baptistry Coordinator and the profound insights he gained while serving side-by-side with his wife 
• The incredible spiritual power of seeing youth and pre-missionaries embrace temple service 
• How serving as an ordinance worker became "the most impactful way" he’s ever served the Lord, changing his heart and priorities
• The modern shift in temple work: The emphasis is now on spiritual preparation and impact, not perfect memorization
• A powerful, heart-searing story of a father and his 11-year-old daughter in the baptistry that illustrates the "gathering of Israel on both sides of the veil"

If you've ever thought, "I don't have time," this conversation will inspire you to take it to the Lord and find a way to serve in His house now.

Temple Bound is Going to Kenya!

Will you join us? Temple Bound is heading to Kenya, Africa, November 2nd through the 9th, to help a local group of members attend the temple for the first time! We are also raising money for an orphanage to provide medical supplies, food, and shelter.

How You Can Help:

1. Follow Us: Stay connected and follow our daily journey on social media! Follow us on Instagram: @TempleBoundPodcast
2. Donate: Support our humanitarian efforts via https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa
3. Come With Us: We have a limited number of seats! Reach out to join us in sharing this good work overseas.

Thanks for listening! If this episode inspired you, please share it with a friend who might be contemplating temple service.

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling anxious about the Second Coming? Join host Will Humphreys and guest Rachele Bascom as they explore Elder Dale G. Renlund's talk, "Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior," and discover how preparing for Christ's return can bring peace and joy.

In this episode, they discuss the three parables Jesus shared to help us prepare for His Second Coming:

1. The Parable of the Ten Virgins: Learn how to "add drops of oil" to your lamp and avoid deception by focusing on Christ and inviting the Holy Ghost.
2. The Parable of the Talents: Understand the importance of magnifying your unique abilities and avoiding the "thief of joy"—unhealthy comparison.
3. The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats: Discover how serving others is a key way to serve God and become the leaders He wants us to be.

Rachele also shares her family's theme, "Focus on Christ," and how it has transformed their daily lives, helping them recognize the hand of God and feel more confident in their discipleship. They also discuss the power of the temple, consistency in our efforts, and how to teach children to trust the Lord and find their identity as sons and daughters of God.

Key Takeaways:

• Preparation over Fear: The goal of personal preparation is not to live in fear but to find joy and confidence in the process.
• Consistency is Effort: Consistency doesn't mean perfection; it means continually trying, getting up when you fall, and putting forth sincere effort.
• The Power of the Holy Ghost: Helping children recognize how they "feel" when exposed to different media or people can help them learn to listen to the Spirit and avoid deception.
• Service brings Joy: Deflecting focus from ourselves and serving others is one of the quickest ways to find happiness and draw closer to the Savior.
• Find Your Joy: Simplify your personal preparation by focusing on Christ, and you will find that living the gospel is a source of optimism, not anxiety.

Listen now and learn how to feel more prepared and joyful as you prepare to meet the Savior!

Learn More & Connect

• Support Temple Bound: Learn about our humanitarian trip to Kenya and how you can help! Here’s a GoFundMe link to donate medical supplies, food, and shelter for a local orphanage. >> https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa
• Come with Us! We have a limited number of seats available for our humanitarian trip to Kenya from November 2nd-9th.
• Follow us on social media for daily updates from our trip.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys is joined by Bishop Brock Booher and his wife, Britt, for a heartfelt conversation on the principle of sustaining—inspired by Elder Ronald A. Rasband’s General Conference talk, “Behold, I Am the Light Which Ye Shall Hold Up.”

The Boohers share personal stories, including their family’s pioneer journey to the Manti Temple, and expand the idea of what it means to be a pioneer in today’s Church. Together, they explore:

• How sustaining leaders and loved ones strengthens families and wards
• Why bishops and their families need trust, grace, and support
• The connection between seeking counsel from leaders and receiving revelation in the temple
• How living our covenants and sustaining the prophet helps us “hold up the Lord’s light”
• Practical ways the temple helps us discern truth from error

The episode also spotlights an upcoming humanitarian trip to Kenya, supporting Saints in attending the temple for the first time and raising funds for a local orphanage.

Whether you’re a new convert, lifelong member, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode will deepen your understanding of sustaining and its role in building faith legacies for generations to come.

Learn More & Connect

• Support Temple Bound: Learn about our humanitarian trip to Kenya and how you can help! Here’s a GoFundMe link to donate medical supplies, food, and shelter for a local orphanage - https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa
• Come with Us! We have a limited number of seats available for our humanitarian trip to Kenya from November 2nd-9th.
• Follow us on social media for daily updates from our trip.

Please leave us a review and let us know what topics you'd love to hear about next!

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to Temple Bound! In this week's episode, host Will Humphreys sits down with author and LDS Living contributor Michelle Wilson to share a deeply personal and unforgettable experience at the Provo City Center Temple. Have you ever felt like you're not "enough" to be in the Lord's house? Michelle's story, originally shared in a beloved LDS Living article, is a powerful reminder that the Savior meets us right where we are—sweaty, frizzy-haired, in jeans and Adidas.

Michelle, the author of "Perfect in Christ: Trading the Burden of Enough for the Beauty of Sufficient," opens up about a time when she was walking through downtown Provo, feeling unsettled and burdened by big life decisions. With no plans to visit the temple, she suddenly felt an overpowering need to be there. But there was one problem: she wasn't dressed for it. This raw, honest story of overcoming hesitation and stepping into the temple just as she was, illustrates a beautiful truth: our spiritual worth isn't measured by our appearance or our perceived perfection.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The difference between "enough" and "sufficient": Learn how letting go of the burden of feeling like you have to be perfect can open the door to a more liberating relationship with the Savior. As Michelle explains, "Perfection is not about performance; it's about proximity."
• The power of seeking peace over answers: Sometimes, what our soul truly needs is not the immediate answer we're searching for, but the profound peace that can only be found in the temple.
• A new perspective on parenting: Michelle shares a powerful revelation she received about her role as a parent—she is only a part of her children's "enough."
• The sacredness of the temple dressing room: Find out why the act of taking off our street clothes and putting on white clothing can be a deeply symbolic and spiritually liberating experience.
• Connecting with those beyond the veil: Michelle recounts an incredible, emotional experience of doing temple work for her ancestor, Emma Edgewood, and feeling a real, tangible connection to her.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation that will help you trade the burden of feeling like you're not enough for the truth that your small, sufficient steps toward the Savior are exactly what He's asking for.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• LDS Living
• Michelle Wilson's book: Perfect in Christ: Trading the Burden of Enough for the Beauty of Sufficient (Available on Deseret Book)

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. Your support helps others find the peace and light found within these stories.

Brenda Angle and Temple Bound are planning another trip to Kenya from November 2nd through the 9th to continue this work. They will not only help more Saints get to the temple for the first time but will also raise money for an orphanage whose buildings were destroyed in a flood a year and a half ago. The funds will provide food, medical supplies, and shelter for the 270 children. The woman in charge of the orphanage, Vanessa, is an orphan herself and a member of the church who will be getting her endowments on this trip.

How you can help:

• Donate: You can donate to the GoFundMe campaign linked below. 100% of the donations will go directly to helping the orphanage and transporting Saints to the temple.
• Join the trip: Temple Bound invites listeners to join them on this service trip. Limited seats are available.
• Follow remotely: You can follow the journey on social media to see daily updates and listen to podcast episodes recorded in Africa.

GoFundMe Link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Temple Bound, Brenda Angle shares her experiences from her most recent trip to Africa, where she helped members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attend the temple in Nairobi, Kenya. This was Brenda's second trip, and it was a direct result of the success of her first visit, which was an open house to help people become familiar with the temple. This time, the purpose was for the Saints to perform sacred ordinances, including baptisms, endowments, and sealings, for the first time.

Brenda's journey was not without its challenges. The adversary, as she puts it, "showed up in force". The obstacles included:

• Passport Issues: Customs and immigration offices shut down a week before the trip, making it nearly impossible to get passports for the members. A dedicated member named Emmanuel worked all night to get the passports processed, but 13 were still missing when the group had to leave. They eventually got through customs after a three-hour negotiation.
• Highway Accidents: The group encountered a major crash that literally blocked the road, causing a delay of about 30 minutes.
• Computer System Failure: The Nairobi temple's computer system went down, preventing a family from getting sealed. After a two-hour delay, the temple staff manually processed their information so the sealing could proceed.

Despite these roadblocks, the trip was filled with miracles. Brenda recounts touching stories of individuals who overcame great odds to be there, including a mother of an autistic son who was worried about her child but was assured of divine protection, and two grandmothers who received unexpected help just before the trip began.

Brenda and Temple Bound are planning another trip to Kenya from November 2nd through the 9th to continue this work. They will not only help more Saints get to the temple for the first time but will also raise money for an orphanage whose buildings were destroyed in a flood a year and a half ago. The funds will provide food, medical supplies, and shelter for the 270 children. The woman in charge of the orphanage, Vanessa, is an orphan herself and a member of the church who will be getting her endowments on this trip.

How you can help:

• Donate: You can donate to the GoFundMe campaign linked below. 100% of the donations will go directly to helping the orphanage and transporting Saints to the temple.
• Join the trip: Temple Bound invites listeners to join them on this service trip. Limited seats are available.
• Follow remotely: You can follow the journey on social media to see daily updates and listen to podcast episodes recorded in Africa.

GoFundMe Link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa

Send us Fan Mail

Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/templebound-in-africa

Join us on this powerful episode of Temple Bound as we explore what it truly means to "draw near unto me" from President Eyring’s April 2025 General Conference talk. Alaina and Jason Couch share a deeply personal and moving conversation about finding strength in the temple, especially during life's most challenging moments.

Initially, President Eyring's talk may not seem directly related to the temple, but Alaina’s story from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic beautifully illustrates how small, consistent actions can lead to miracles. You'll hear about her weekly commitment to the temple and how a simple act of faith provided the spiritual strength she didn't know she needed for what was to come.

This episode dives into how temple worship isn't just about covenants and commandments; it’s about relationships. Learn how drawing closer to the Savior in the temple can also strengthen your connections with your family, friends, and even transform your professional life. Jason, a medical professional who works with mothers and babies, shares a powerful, sacred experience from the hospital that demonstrates how an eternal perspective gained in the temple can provide light and comfort in the darkest of moments.

Discover how:

• Small and simple things, like regular temple attendance or partaking of the sacrament with intention, can lead to profound spiritual growth and transformation.
• A "temple mindset" and eternal perspective can help you navigate life's unexpected challenges and find purpose in pain.
• Drawing near to the Lord can bring "splash over blessings" that affect your loved ones, even when they're not on the covenant path.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper, more personal relationship with the Savior and looking for ways to apply the principles of the gospel in their everyday life.

Send us Fan Mail

In an age of global challenges and immense human suffering, it's a fair question to ask: "Why is the Church spending so much money on temples?" On this episode of Temple Bound, Will Humphreys and his guest Bryce Bender—co-host of the Companionship Study Podcast—provide a powerful and inspired answer.

Drawing from the teachings of President Russell M. Nelson and other Church leaders, they explain why the building of temples is the ultimate act of preparing a people for the Savior’s return. Bryce, who served in Bolivia, offers a personal and moving perspective on how a new temple can transform a community. He backs up his spiritual insights with a unique, number-based approach to show the incredible scale of the Lord’s "hastening work."

Takeaways:

• A Humanitarian Effort: Will and Bryce discuss how temples are a form of humanitarian work that changes hearts and prepares a people for the Second Coming.
• The Math of the Hastening: Bryce, an engineer, breaks down the numbers to show that the announced temples will require 132,000 new temple ordinance workers, a force larger than the current missionary corps.
• Becoming "Lightning Bugs": A beautiful metaphor of leaving the temple filled with light and becoming a beacon in a darkening world.
• Holding to the Iron Rod: The temple is the most powerful tool for helping us hold fast to the iron rod (the word of God).
• Christ is the Main Character: Bryce shares how a personal revelation in the temple taught him to see Christ's creative power as a tool for transforming his own life.

This conversation addresses common criticisms and reveals a deeper truth: the power gained through temple worship is the very thing that enables us to serve and lift others. Discover how each new temple is a call to rise up and shine your light, and hear a beautiful personal story about how the creation ordinance of the temple can be a template for personal transformation.

Send us Fan Mail

What if the key to overcoming addiction, making better choices, and living with more purpose came down to one thing, knowing who you truly are? In this episode, Will sits down with close friends Wade & Jennifer Beckstead to dive deep into Tad Callister's powerful talk on our divine identity and eternal destiny. From the concept of spiritual identity theft to the logic of "like begets like," this conversation will challenge and inspire you to see yourself, and everyone around you through God's eyes.

They explore why we are not just creations of God but His literal offspring, what that means for our potential to become like Him, and how the temple is the very place where that transformation begins. Plus, Wade and Jen get refreshingly personal about parenting, marriage, faith, and the spiritual gifts they've had to earn the hard way.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why President Nelson's answer to pornography addiction was "teach them their identity and purpose" and why that's more powerful than it sounds
• The difference between being a creation of God vs. an offspring of God, and why it completely changes your sense of worth and potential
• How "spiritual identity theft" works and how to recognize it in your own life
• What five categories of witnesses, scripture, early Christians, poets and authors, logic, and history, teach us about our quest for godhood
• Why C.S. Lewis said "there are no ordinary people" and what that means for how we treat others
• How ordinances and covenants in the temple are the keys to unlocking godly power in our lives
• Why spiritual gifts are not just given, they are earned, and how to seek them intentionally
• The surprising way temple robes connect to a physical therapy research study on visualization and growth

Leave a comment below! What spiritual gift are you currently seeking or working on? We'd love to hear from you. Don't forget to Subscribe to Temple Bound for your weekly dose of eternal perspective! 

Resources & References Mentioned:

• Talk: Our Divine DNA by Tad Callister https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/tad-r-callister/our-identity-and-our-destiny/
• Book: Look to Me in Every Thought by Dennis Deaton
• Scripture: D&C 84:20–21
• Scripture: John 17 "That they may be made one"

Send us Fan Mail

In this thought-provoking episode of Temple Bound, we dive into the controversial truths behind commonly given marriage advice, especially for those sealed in the temple. Monica Tanner, author of Bad Marriage Advice, joins us to challenge traditional perspectives that can unintentionally harm marriages rather than help them.

Monica shares her unique journey from being raised Jewish to converting to the LDS Church and how her 23 years of marriage and decades of coaching have shaped her insights. She reveals why some widely accepted counsel, like "divorce is not an option" or "never go to bed angry," can be damaging when taken as absolute truths.

Learn why agency and choice are essential in marriage, how to recognize and navigate emotional abuse even within a temple-sealed relationship, and why taking pauses during conflict can be a powerful tool for growth. Monica also reflects on her personal motivation for writing this book: a heartfelt letter to her young son as he prepares for marriage.

Whether you’re newlywed, preparing for the temple, or a seasoned spouse, this episode encourages you to rethink rigid marriage advice and embrace a healthier, more honest approach to creating lasting love.

Tune in for:

• Real talk about the myth that “divorce is not an option”
• The importance of choice and accountability in marriage
• Why sometimes "going to bed angry" might be okay
• Practical tips for emotional health and conflict resolution
• Breaking free from harmful cultural expectations around temple marriage

Get ready to expand your horizons and strengthen your most sacred relationship.

Send us Fan Mail

What’s the oil in your lamp made of? Will and Heather close this 3-part series with the Brother of Jared’s glowing stones, personal stories of faith, and powerful insights into the parable of the ten virgins. This is a heartfelt guide to preparing for Christ’s return—with confidence, trust, and intentional shine.

Key Takeaways:

• True readiness for Christ's return is built on a deep, personal relationship with Him, symbolized by the "oil" in our lamps.
• Trials are often the "presses" that help us gain this essential spiritual oil.
• We can foster our children's relationship with the Savior by encouraging them to turn to Him in their challenges.
• The companionship of the Holy Ghost is priceless, providing confidence and guidance.
• No matter the challenge, "the best is yet to come," and God will always provide "another ram in the thicket."

Scriptures & Quotes Mentioned:

• Daniel 2:44-45 (Stone cut without hands)
• Doctrine and Covenants 65:2-3
• Matthew 25 (Parable of the Ten Virgins)
• President Russell M. Nelson 
• Elder Kevin W. Pearson 

Connect With Us:

• What does your "oil" look like? How are you intentionally building your relationship with the Savior?
• Thank you for joining us on this journey with Temple Bound! Please subscribe and leave a review.

Send us Fan Mail

Join us on Temple Bound as we hear the incredibly powerful story of Elder Jayden Laursen, a service missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jayden shares his remarkable journey from being an "anti-church" teenager involved with a "rough crowd" to becoming a passionate advocate for the gospel and a dedicated temple worker.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Jayden's Dramatic Conversion: Learn how unexpected encounters and the quiet influence of conference talks led him back to the Church after years of opposition, culminating in a powerful spiritual experience in seminary.
• A Family's Return: Hear the tender story of how Jayden's renewed faith inspired his entire family—his mom, siblings, and even his once-skeptical dad—to return to activity in the Church.
• The Temple as an "Iron Rod": Jayden vividly describes how the temple became his steadfast anchor amidst life's challenges, providing clarity and strength. He recounts a profound experience in the baptistry that solidified his testimony of temple work.
• The Unseen Bravery of Service Missions: Elder Laursen, a member of the Service Mission Communications Council, sheds light on the unique challenges and profound blessings of serving a mission from home. He bravely discusses the "three-way front" service missionaries often face and how they stand firm despite cultural stigmas.
• Tender Mercies in the House of the Lord: Jayden shares deeply personal experiences of receiving revelation and witnessing miracles while serving in the temple, highlighting its role as a place where "not one name will be lost."
• A Message to Future Generations: In a touching moment, Jayden reveals his ultimate motivation for his mission and service: a profound desire to be better for his future children and grandchildren, emphasizing that "the world has nothing to offer you."

This episode is a testament to the Savior's power to reclaim, heal, and use individuals in extraordinary ways. Elder Laursen's sincere and courageous account will inspire anyone seeking to strengthen their faith, overcome adversity, and understand the profound impact of temple service.

Send us Fan Mail

Have you ever wondered if your relationship with God could be more profound, more personal, more bound? In this transformative episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys sits down with the insightful Natalie Burton to unravel the depths of President Russell M. Nelson's pivotal October 2022 Liahona message on the Everlasting Covenant.

This isn't just another discussion about covenants; it's a spiritual compass for anyone seeking to understand their divine connection. Natalie, a beloved teacher and passionate advocate for Christ-centered living, shares her profound insights on:

• The Power of Being "Bound Together": Discover why the temple is central to a covenant relationship that goes far beyond what you might traditionally think.
• Unpacking Hasid: God's Loyal Love: Explore the powerful Hebrew term President Nelson highlights – a unique concept describing the special, loyal, and intimate love God has for those in covenant with Him.
• More Than Just Marriage: Understand how President Nelson expands our view of the Everlasting Covenant to encompass every facet of our relationship with God and our role as covenant Israel.
• Accessing Divine Power: Learn how making and keeping sacred covenants grants us access to the power of Christ, making us "sin-resistant souls."

Tune in to experience a conversation that truly walks the covenant path. Don't forget to read President Nelson's article yourself – you'll find a link below!

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2022/10/04-the-everlasting-covenant?lang=eng

Connect with Natalie Burton: 

• FB: nataliexburton
• IG: adventures.of.natalieb

Send us Fan Mail

The journey doesn’t end at the top. In this episode, Will and Heather unpack what it means to descend the mountain with power, peace, and purpose. From the Good Samaritan to the Mount of Transfiguration, this is about becoming a light for others… and learning to shine when the world gets dark.

Key Takeaways:

• Spiritual growth doesn't end at the temple doors; it's about bringing the temple's power into our lives.
• We descend to serve, heal, and share the light of Christ with those around us.
• Our transformation ("the shine") makes us agents of light and healing in the world.
• God provides "glowing miracles" to guide us through life's storms, even when the journey is hard.

Scriptures & Quotes Mentioned:

• Luke 10 (The Good Samaritan)
• Matthew 17 (The Mount of Transfiguration)
• Ether 6:3-6 (Brother of Jared's glowing stones)
• Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:16 - "let your light so shine")

Connect With Us:

• How do you bring the "shine" of your spiritual experiences into your daily life?
• Share this episode with a friend who might need to "Come Down Glowing"!

Send us Fan Mail

Why does the Lord ask us to ascend? In this deeply personal episode, Will and Heather explore the symbolism of mountains and temples through the stories of Moses and Abraham, showing how preparation and trust are key to receiving revelation. It’s a conversation for your children, your grandchildren… and anyone ready to climb.

Key Takeaways:

• Temples are modern-day mountains where we ascend to meet the Lord.
• Preparation, trust, and overcoming opposition are vital steps in our spiritual climb.
• The journey of ascent itself transforms us, strengthening our spiritual "legs."
• God's ultimate purpose in calling us to higher places is to help us become more like Him.

Scriptures & Quotes Mentioned:

• Exodus 19 (Moses on Mount Sinai)
• Genesis 22 (Abraham and Isaac)
• Elder Jeffrey R. Holland 
• Elder Jack H. Goslin & Elder Rulon G. Jackson
• 1 Nephi 21:9 (Isaiah 49)

Connect With Us:

• What does "climbing the mountain" mean in your life? Share your thoughts!
• Subscribe to Temple Bound for more insights into temple worship and personal revelation.

Send us Fan Mail

What if our kids knew Christ, not just as a Redeemer or Master, but as a true friend?

In this powerful episode of Temple Bound, Will Humphreys sits down with returning guest Kara Smith to talk about something most of us never hear much about: how to develop a personal friendship with Jesus Christ.

It started with a simple realization, there aren’t many talks, lessons, or resources that explore this side of the Savior. So Will and Kara decided to dig into what it means, not just for youth, but for parents, to model that relationship.

Together, they explore how the temple can become a place where youth stop “checking in” with Christ and start walking with Him.

Key Topics in This Episode:

• Friendship with Christ is Real, But Rarely Taught

Will and Kara discuss how “friend” is one of Christ’s names, yet rarely emphasized. They share why this specific connection matters deeply for the rising generation.

• Kids Are Hurting, Even When They Look Fine

Even the strongest, happiest-looking kids often feel isolated. Social media, peer pressure, and self-doubt create silent struggles that too many face alone.

• The Temple Is a Place of Belonging

Kara shares how her son, Drew, had a personal experience of feeling seen in the temple, and how mindset and intention shape the way youth connect with Christ there.

• Parenting with Boundaries & Self-Respect

Setting limits isn’t about control, it’s about modeling how to treat others and yourself. Kara explains how emotional safety in the home leads to spiritual growth.

• Authenticity Over Perfection

Real spiritual impact comes from being honest with your kids, not just teaching doctrine, but letting them see how you wrestle, grow, and lean on Christ.

• Teaching Them to Trust Their Divine Identity

Kara talks about how trusting in the Savior helps her kids trust themselves. That trust becomes the foundation for facing life with courage and confidence.

• The Latter-Day Advantage

These are hard times, but they’re also sacred times. Will reframes the pressure of the world as a divine opportunity, our youth are meant for this moment.

If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who needs it, another parent, a youth leader, or a friend walking the same path.

Subscribe to Temple Bound for more conversations that bring Christ closer to the everyday lives of Latter-day Saints.

Send us Fan Mail

Feeling like you don't fit in, like everyone else got the "joy memo" but you? In this deeply personal episode of Temple Bound, we tackle the very real struggles of loneliness, social anxiety, and mental health challenges facing youth today.

Drawing from a powerful message shared with a group of young people, your host shares a personal, embarrassing story about "tight pants" and how feeling like an outcast actually pointed to a deeper truth: our divine strength.

We explore how despite the rising tide of social poverty, as predicted by prophets, there is profound hope and a way forward through Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. You'll hear insightful statistics on mental health, powerful scriptures, and heartfelt truths about your inherent worth.

This episode emphasizes how regular church attendance, the presence of caring adults, and engaging in community service can significantly reduce risks associated with mental health struggles. Most importantly, we dive into how focusing on the Savior, discerning the voices in your head, being a true friend, serving others, and especially the temple can change everything.

Learn why you matter not because of your choices, but because you are a beloved child of God. 

Key Takeaways:

• You are not alone in feeling alone or like you don't fit in. Many, including your host, have felt this way.
• Your struggles can point to your divine strength. The challenges you face prepare you for greater blessings.
• "Social poverty" is a real plague predicted by prophets. Statistics on youth mental health, social media's impact, and suicide rates highlight the urgency.
• The answer is always Jesus Christ. Focusing on Him through scripture study, church attendance, seminary, and pro-gospel actions brings joy.
• You matter because you exist; your worth is infinite. It has nothing to do with your choices or actions.
• Discern the voices in your head. Positive, pro-survival thoughts come from the Holy Ghost; negative, judgmental ones come from the adversary. Learn to call out and dismiss negative influences.
• Be a "Matt Floyd." Find friendship by being a friend, especially to those who need it most.
• Serve others and show gratitude. These actions foster health and well-being.
• The Temple is a sacred refuge. Its influence offers reprieve from the adversary and confirms your divine purpose.

Join us as we testify that Jesus Christ sees you, loves you, and that you've got this.

What other show ideas or questions do you have in your heart that we can help answer? Share them in the comments or over on Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Join us for an incredibly powerful episode of TempleBound with the remarkable Brenda Angle. Featured in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Newsroom article, "Tanzanian Saints Visit Nairobi Kenya Temple Open House: The Impossible Journey," Brenda shares her awe-inspiring story.

What started as a simple idea to bring 25-50 people from Tanzania to the Nairobi Kenya Temple open house for their first temple experience quickly snowballed into a miraculous undertaking. Hear how Brenda, driven by a deep love for the people of Africa, organized transportation, accommodation, and even passports for hundreds, overcoming immense logistical and financial challenges.

In this episode, Brenda recounts:

• Her personal calling to serve in Africa, leading to 15 trips over seven years.
• The unwavering faith of the Tanzanian Saints, who made extraordinary sacrifices to attend.
• The miraculous provisions of funds, food, and solutions that appeared when needed most.
• The beautiful chaos of getting over 500 people, including 98 orphans, to the temple.
• The profound impact of the temple experience on individuals who had never left their villages.
• Inspiring stories, including that of Molly, a former street child who became a wealthy man and adopted 35,000 children, and his profound experience in the temple.

This episode is a testament to the power of faith, the adversary's opposition to sacred work, and the boundless love of God for His children. It will ignite your soul and deepen your appreciation for temples.

Special Challenge: In this episode, we issue a "Go as if you've never been before" temple challenge. Listen in to find out more!

Send us Fan Mail

In this heartfelt episode of Temple Bound, we dive into the transformative power of love both divine and human, in navigating life’s challenges. Cali Black share personal stories about the temple as a place not just for answers, but for feeling deeply loved and strengthened, even in confusion and trial.

We explore the powerful concept of compensatory blessings, blessings God provides to fill in what we have lost or to help us persist when life feels overwhelming. These blessings aren’t about perfection or earning favor, but about God’s perfect love meeting us exactly where we are.

Whether you’ve ever struggled with feelings of worthiness, perfectionism, or burnout, this episode reminds us that leading with love, whether in parenting, relationships, or self-care is the foundation for healing and peace. We also talk about the adversary’s tactics of shame and how the gospel’s message of mercy and justice offers hope beyond our mistakes.

Key Topics Covered:

• The temple as a place of peace, not just answers
• The principle of compensatory blessings and how God compensates for what we lack
• Overcoming toxic perfectionism and self-criticism
• Leading with love in parenting and relationships
• Understanding God’s justice and mercy
• Finding hope and strength in Jesus Christ amid trials

Tune in for uplifting insights on how the temple, scripture, and Christ’s love help us carry our burdens and find joy in the journey.

Send us Fan Mail

Most of us are taught to view the Atonement through a "legal" lens: we owe a debt, we can’t pay it, and Jesus steps in as our defense attorney to satisfy an angry judge. But what if that transactional model is actually blocking us from a deeper connection with God?

In this powerful episode of Temple Bound, host Will Humphreys sits down with Cameron LaDuke, a scholar of Ancient Judaism and Religious Studies, to flip the script on how we view the Atonement. Cameron shares how his own "mental block" regarding God’s justice led him on a 20-year journey to discover a more beautiful, transformational model hidden within the temple endowment: The Creation Model.

Together, they walk through the symbolic geography of the Tabernacle—from the "lone and dreary world" of the outer courtyard to the Holy of Holies—explaining how every step of the temple is designed to transfer God's "glory" (His actual essence and power) back into our lives. If you’ve ever struggled to see the Savior in the creation story or felt that repentance is just about "getting back to zero," this episode will change how you experience the temple forever.

Key Takeaways

• The Problem of "Courtroom" Theology: Why viewing God as a "debt collector" can hinder our love for Him and how the temple offers a more merciful alternative.
• Atonement as "Re-Creation": How the Savior uses the same power He used to organize the earth to organize the chaos and darkness in our individual lives.
• The "Coat of Skins" as Mercy: A deep dive into how God’s first act after the Fall was an act of protection, covering us in His own goodness (Grace).
• The Symbolism of the Altar: Understanding the "Altar of Sacrifice" and the "Altar of Incense" as physical representations of the Savior’s proximity to us in our fallen state.
• The Veil as a Rescue Operation: Why the "Sentinels" at the veil aren't there to keep us out, but to ensure we are physically prepared to handle God's glory without being destroyed.

Resources Mentioned 

• Cameron’s Original YouTube Presentation 

Send us Fan Mail

We're so excited to share a truly special discussion today. Our repeat guest, the ever-insightful Brad Farr, has diligently combed through the April 2025 General Conference talks, meticulously extracting every paragraph that speaks of temples and covenants. He and I will be humbly exploring these sacred words, discussing how these profound messages can guide our path and strengthen our resolve in the coming six months. If your heart yearns for a deeper understanding of the Lord's holy house and the sacred covenants we make, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Prepare to feel the Spirit and draw closer to Him.

Key Takeaways/Insights:

• President Nelson's Urgent Call to "See What is Happening Right Before Our Eyes"
• The Temple: Our Fortress Against Deception and a Source of Eternal Perspective
• Embracing Christ's Atonement Through Temple Covenants.
• The "Crew Member" Blessing: Receiving Compensation for Our Diligent Service.
• Reverence as the Pathway to Revelation and Covenant Confidence.
• The Lord's Promises Manifested: Experiencing Mercy and Healing in His Holy House.
• An Invitation to Intentional Temple Worship and Personal Revelation

We encourage you, dear listeners, to prayerfully consider what specific commitments you can make to increase your temple worship and covenant keeping in the coming months. What promptings have you received today? Please share your personal insights, experiences, or questions about the temple and covenants by leaving a comment on our episode page or sending us a message on Instagram @TempleBoundPodcast. 

Send us Fan Mail

What’s your Temple WHY? In this powerful episode of Temple Bound, we sit down with physical therapist and dear friend, Steve, to unpack Emily Bell Freeman's profound talk, "Walking in a Covenant Relationship with Christ." Many of us view our temple covenants as mere requirements, but Steve helps us delve into the true "why" of the temple – a dynamic, ascending relationship with our Savior.

We explore:

• The "Why" of the Temple: Moving beyond a checklist mentality to understand the deeper purpose of our temple worship and how it connects us intimately with Christ.
• Covenant Path vs. Covenant Relationship: Shifting our perspective from a prescribed route to an ongoing, personal connection with the Lord, as beautifully illustrated in Emily Bell Freeman's talk.
• The Power of "I Am With You": How the promise of Christ's unwavering presence, as found in scriptures and hymns like "How Firm a Foundation," transforms our journey, especially during life's "dark nights of the soul."
• Condescension and Ascension: Understanding how Christ meets us where we are, broken and imperfect, and then lifts us to become more like Him through the temple.
• Stripping Out the Noise: Discovering how focusing on core truths—the Savior's Atonement, His love, and His will—helps us navigate life's complexities and find peace in the temple.
• The Temple as a Place of Refuge and Empowerment: Steve shares personal insights on how the temple offers strength, peace, and the power to make choices that draw us closer to God.
• Never Give Up: The crucial role of persistence and continually turning to Christ, even when we feel alone or discouraged.

As you listen, ask yourself: Why do I go to the temple? What does that really mean to me? Journal your thoughts and discover the unique "why" that fuels your covenant relationship with Christ.

Connect with us! Join the conversation on Instagram at @templeboundpodcast for additional insights and episode previews.

Send us Fan Mail

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Monica Tanner, a marriage coach with a truly unique and miraculous journey. Monica shares her incredible story of being born into a Jewish family in Texas and her unexpected path to becoming a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Join us as Monica recounts:

• Growing up in a strong Jewish community in Texas and her early exposure to different faiths.
• The pivotal moments and "coincidences" that led her to encounter the Church, including an unexpected connection at the University of Texas.
• The role of friends, missionaries, and even her father's unexpected experience in her conversion journey.
• Her first powerful experience in the temple, and the profound revelation she received there.
• How her unique background and conversion story inform her work today as a successful marriage coach, helping couples navigate challenges and strengthen their relationships.
• Insights from her upcoming book, "Bad Marriage Advice: Debunking Myths That Will Make You Miserable and What to Do Instead," including a preview of common misconceptions about marriage.

Monica's story is a beautiful testament to how the Lord works in miraculous ways, weaving together seemingly random events to guide us on our individual paths. Her authenticity and powerful testimony will leave you inspired and uplifted.

Send us Fan Mail

In this insightful episode, we welcome back Michelle Bentley to delve into President Russell M. Nelson's recent April 2025 General Conference address, "Confidence in the Presence of God." In a world often filled with doubt and negativity, President Nelson's message offers a powerful path to developing a deep and abiding confidence in our relationship with the Lord, not just in the future, but in our daily lives right now.

Key Discussion Points:

• Temple covenants are deeply connected to the principles of charity and virtue.
• The temple is a place to learn and live charity, strengthening our spiritual connection and confidence.
• President Nelson calls for charity towards all people, exemplified by the accepting nature of the youth.
• Building individual confidence contributes to the collective gathering of Israel.
• Ether 12 highlights that the Lord uses our weaknesses to make us strong through humility and faith.
• A personal story illustrates receiving help and finding spiritual growth in unexpected challenges.
• The takeaway is that confidence in God's presence should feel like a comforting and familiar relationship built on studying His life and teachings.

We hope this discussion has helped you consider how to cultivate greater confidence in the presence of our loving Heavenly Father and Savior. If you found these insights valuable and want to explore more topics like this, be sure to follow or subscribe to our podcast so you don't miss future episodes! We appreciate you listening and joining our community.

Send us Fan Mail