A Decade Never to be Forgotten

About A Decade Never to be Forgotten

This podcast follows the journey of twelve people over a decade of their lives. There will be joy, heartache, union, separation, pain, and happiness. It's going to be a wild ride.

Publisher

Jethro Jones

Category

religion & spirituality · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

15 Nov 2024

Latest episode

26 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 Aug 2026

   God Doesn't Waste Your Struggles - Jake 2026

   Summary Jake Harmer returns for his second annual check-in on A Decade Never to Be Forgotten. He reflects on welcoming a fourth child, growing Family History StoryBooks to 120 titles and more than 8,000 printed books, and asking what experiences he wants his own storybook to preserve. Jake and Jethro discuss using AI to research, write, and illustrate family-history books; discerning truth in an age of synthetic video; serving in a bishopric and helping young men pursue longer-term goals; using AI to complete plumbing and electrical work in a home addition; fatherhood; and what the next year may bring. Chapters 0:00 — Welcome & a Year of Reflection 1:30 — A New Baby and Family History StoryBooks 3:48 — What Belongs in a Life Story? 9:17 — Research, Writers, and AI-Assisted Books 12:26 — AI Image Generation and Consistent Characters 19:57 — Synthetic Media and Spiritual Discernment 22:20 — Making the Storybook Business Work 24:20 — Serving in the Bishopric and Learning Through Trials 34:03 — Sharing Faith Online 39:08 — Helping Young Men Pursue Long-Term Goals 45:37 — Using AI for a Home Addition 47:40 — Baptism and Spiritual Moments 49:35 — Being Present With Family 54:00 — What the Next Year May Bring 56:10 — AI as a Tool for Creativity Show Notes Journal your own decade at adecadenevertobeforgotten.com (https://adecadenevertobeforgotten.com) or adntbf.com (https://adntbf.com) Jake's Family History StoryBooks work turns family research into illustrated books for descendants. Topics include AI-assisted research and illustration, spiritual discernment, church service, long-term goals for youth, home improvement, and being present with family. Referenced in this episode: President Russell M. Nelson's teaching about the Holy Ghost, Job, Ether and the brother of Jared, the Stripling Warriors, and recent AI filmmaking. Added/created/modified by Codex on 2026.08.20 17:27 on ombee.

2. 

   4 Jun 2026

   A Decade Never to Be Forgotten — Year 2 with Becky Sampson

   Becky Sampson returns for her second annual check-in on A Decade Never to Be Forgotten. On her 53rd birthday, Becky and host Jethro explore how she's grown closer to the Savior through personal trials, the power of choosing love in the midst of a difficult custody situation and blended family dynamics, using AI alongside the Spirit, recognizing "God drops" in everyday life, navigating the last days with faith and grounding practices, finding joy through surrender and acceptance, the painful yet refining journey of not having biological children, stepping into authenticity in her third marriage and business ventures, and the ripple effect of coaching others to reach their potential.

3. 

   7 May 2026

   Connor Pay Year 2

   Former BYU center Connor Pay is back for year two of his decade-long journey — and what a year it's been. From the highs of NFL mini camps with the Seattle Seahawks and Las Vegas Raiders, to an unexpected pivot into college coaching and international entrepreneurship, Connor's story is proof that God's plan is almost never the plan you made. In this episode: The NFL dream — and what actually happened. Connor breaks down the brutal reality of life as an undrafted free agent: the bidding wars that went dark, the piece of paper in his locker, the flights that got canceled, and why not getting preseason film can end a career before it starts. Coaching at BYU. How a conversation with head coach Kalani Sitake turned into a full-time staff position — and why Connor never saw it coming. The We Are One Foundation. Connor is heading to Tonga in June to open an employment center for 130 remote workers, running in partnership with BYU Pathway. He's the VP of the foundation and co-founder of the affiliated company alongside Isaiah Kafue. NIL, the transfer portal, and real talk about money. Connor lived on both sides of the NIL era and is now coaching guys through it. His message: you may never make this much money again — invest now. Elder Rasband. A two-and-a-half-hour conversation about honesty, NIL, and revelation — leading to a friendship that ended with an apostle sealing Connor and his new wife Mallory in the temple. Mallory. She DM'd him on Instagram. He responded. They got married in February. Two months in, he's already the one filling up her water bottle before bed. D&C 88:73 and a phone password that finally made sense. One of the most quietly powerful "hand of the Lord" stories you'll hear — seven years in the making. How to receive revelation — what Elder Rasband taught Connor's younger brother Austin that applies to all of us. Links: Track your own decade: adecadenevertobeforgotten.com (https://adecadenevertobeforgotten.com/) — use the daily journal to answer a new question every day and watch your perspective change over the years The app: adntbf.com (https://adntbf.com/) Want to follow Connor's journey? Tune in again next year — and next time, Mallory's joining too.

4. 

   28 Mar 2026

   Faith and Big Decisions: Year 2 with Savannah Dean

   In this episode of A Decade Never To Be Forgotten, Jethro catches up with Savannah one year after her mission. A lot has changed—she got married to her high school sweetheart Alec after reconnecting over the summer, and they moved fast with intention and spiritual confirmation. Topics covered: How Savannah and Alec reconnected after their missions and decided to get married within months Finding spiritual confirmation through peace rather than dramatic revelation Maintaining good habits from missionary life in the "real world" The importance of regular temple attendance and finding something new each visit Early marriage adjustments (including learning to cook!) Switching from nursing to Communication Disorders/Speech Language Pathology Running her first marathon with minimal training—and losing four toenails Looking ahead to graduate school and using her spiritual gift of loving people in her future career

5. 

   5 Feb 2026

   Cali Year 2!

   In this annual father-daughter conversation, Jethro D. Jones sits down with his daughter Cali to reflect on 2024 and look ahead to an exciting 2025. Cali shares her spiritual growth, her unique senior year with only three classes, her decision to serve a mission, and her travels to Germany. Key Topics Discussed: Spiritual Growth & Scripture Study Cali's deep dive into Doctrine & Covenants study Reading the Book of Mormon for the 9th time Weekly temple attendance as a personal commitment Making Jesus Christ a priority, not just a goal Senior Year & Time Management Taking only 3 classes (English, Art, and Calculus) Learning Parkinson's Law firsthand Using free time for temple visits, walks with mom, and work Earning the Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish Mission Decision Announcement of serving a mission starting August 2025 How the age change for sister missionaries influenced her decision Feeling spiritually prepared and at peace with the choice Hopes to serve internationally and learn a new language Germany Trip Highlights Traveling with dad and staying with his mission friend's family Running 14 miles through a former coal mine Visiting Berlin, the Berlin Wall, and Prague Experiencing authentic German culture (including pasta with watered-down ketchup) Looking Ahead Monthly challenges leading up to the mission (No Spend January, meditation in February) Track season and the steeplechase Running Katya's fundraiser for Shriners Hospital Graduating high school and trip to Scotland with mom Forest Frank concert with sister Eloise Memorable Quotes: "Last year I wanted to make Him a priority, but this year He is a priority." "I'm the most ready person out there—I'm not gonna be shy about that." "Being sad about it isn't really gonna change anything." Resources Mentioned: A Decade Never to Be Forgotten journaling app: adecadenevertobeforgotten.com Come Follow Me study program Shriners Hospital fundraiser

6. 

   27 Dec 2025

   Faith, Family, and Flow: Lessons from Year Two with Staci and Jethro

   Introduction: Jethro and Staci reflect on the second year of their decade-long journey, setting the stage for a candid and insightful conversation. Lightning Round: Quick-fire questions about marriage, parenting, and personal growth, including communication, handling trials, and surprising lessons as parents. Family Traditions & Spiritual Practices: The importance of family vacations, daily prayer, and integrating spiritual habits into everyday life. Gratitude & Inspiration in Trials: Finding gratitude and peace during difficult times, and sharing recent books and talks that have inspired personal growth. Celebrating Small Wins: The value of acknowledging and celebrating achievements as a family, and how goal-setting and support foster a positive environment. What We Wish People Would Ask: Honest reflections on the questions they wish others would ask about their journey, and the joy found in growth and resilience. Trusting in the Lord Through Financial Struggles: Stories of faith, miracles, and provision during financial challenges, and the lessons learned from budgeting and trusting in divine help. The Doctoral Journey: Navigating the ups and downs of pursuing a doctorate, including closed doors, unexpected opportunities, and the importance of perseverance. When It's Right, It Flows: Recognizing moments of alignment and peace when following the right path, even amidst effort and uncertainty. Faith Without Works: The necessity of taking action, using agency, and working in partnership with faith to achieve goals and receive guidance. Milestones vs. Identity: Shifting focus from external achievements to embracing divine identity and finding peace beyond milestones. A Decade of Growth and Change: Reflections on personal and family growth, preparing children for independence, and the evolving nature of goals and expectations. Preparing Kids for Life: Teaching responsibility, life skills, and spiritual habits to children, and celebrating their unique paths and strengths. Generational Blessings & Spiritual Legacy: The impact of family heritage, faith traditions, and the compounding effect of generational efforts on spiritual growth. Closing Thoughts: Looking ahead to the coming year with optimism, gratitude, and a commitment to continued growth and discovery. Key Themes: Faith, family, resilience, personal growth, spiritual practices, parenting, financial stewardship, and the power of tradition and legacy. Takeaway: Jethro and Staci share a heartfelt, honest look at the challenges and blessings of their journey, offering wisdom and encouragement for anyone navigating their own decade of change.

7. 

   16 Nov 2025

   Prioritizing Family - Courtney and Trevor Thornton 2025

   In this episode, we catch up with Courtney and her husband Trevor Thornton for their second-year interview. The conversation starts with an introduction to Trevor and explores the couple's journey, including their decision to homeschool their children and prioritize family. They delve into the creation of a multi-year journal designed to help users reflect on their lives over a decade and how this has impacted their own experiences. Courtney opens up about how the loss of their daughter, Presley, has influenced their family priorities and spiritual growth. They also talk about their recent trip to Alaska and how it reinforced their appreciation for nature and God's creations. The Thorntons share their ongoing project of converting their annual blanket drive into a non-profit organization, aiming to support more NICUs and make a broader impact. They conclude with a discussion on their current church callings and their hopes for maintaining a strong family focus over the next decade. 01:35 Meet Trevor: Courtney's Husband 02:49 Trevor's Career Journey 04:07 Reflecting on Last Year's Interview 04:56 The Importance of Family 07:08 Homeschooling Challenges and Insights 09:55 Incorporating Real-Life Learning 17:13 Balancing Roles: Teacher and Parent 20:41 Spiritual Guidance in Homeschooling 34:27 The Impact of Losing Presley 43:46 Future Plans: Nonprofit Organization 48:33 Local Hospital Support and Blanket Donations 50:04 Reflecting on the Impact of Blanket Donations 51:13 Debating the Future of the Blanket Drive 51:47 The Emotional Significance of the Blanket Drive 53:13 The Purpose Behind the Blanket Drive 54:04 Balancing Personal Grief and Helping Others 54:51 The Decision to Continue the Blanket Drive 56:40 The Role of Faith and Divine Timing 01:00:51 Starting a Nonprofit: Steps and Motivation 01:05:23 The Importance of Taking Action 01:14:41 Family Trip to Alaska 01:17:26 Experiencing Spiritual Moments on the Cruise 01:20:05 Appreciating Nature and God's Creations 01:25:03 Future Priorities and Family Focus 01:28:20 Current Callings and Final Thoughts

8. 

   1 Aug 2025

   Lindi Marcusen, Elite Sprinter

   In this episode, we explore the remarkable story of Lindi Marcusen, a Paralympian whose life took a drastic turn following a traumatic car accident. Lindi recounts her journey from being a vibrant college student to facing life-altering injuries, including losing a leg and suffering a traumatic brain injury. Despite these challenges, she found resilience, became a Paralympic athlete, and now inspires others facing similar trials. Lindi shares deep insights into her recovery, the importance of self-care, and how faith and a supportive community helped her navigate her new reality. Her journey underscores the power of perseverance and staying focused on one's goals, even when life diverges drastically from initial plans. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:37 Lindi's Early Life and Relationship 03:00 The Accident and Its Aftermath 07:40 Rehabilitation and Recovery 20:28 Faith and Personal Struggles 29:49 Journey to Becoming a Paralympian 33:37 The Love for Sprinting 34:07 Starting with Parasport 34:49 Overcoming Doubts and Challenges 35:58 Current Achievements and Teaching Others 36:51 Balancing Career and Passion 39:45 Rediscovering Artistic Side 41:17 Finding Joy in the Mundane 47:47 The Paralympic Journey 56:38 Building a Supportive Team 01:00:25 Growing Closer to Christ 01:05:18 Lessons from the Past Year

9. 

   1 Jul 2025

   Becky Sampson on Faith after Fallout

   Becky Sampson sits down with host Jethro Jones to trace the pivotal moments that shaped her faith, health, and purpose—from childhood shame and food addiction to an abusive first marriage, dramatic career pivots, and her mission-driven resolve to help others navigate divorce and self-worth through Christ. Over two and a half hours, Becky’s candor and resilience reveal how God weaves trials into a decade never to be forgotten. Key Takeaways Shame → Hiding → Binge-Eating Loop – how a single childhood comment ignited years of self-sabotage and weight gain. Answering the Call – why Becky’s seemingly “undesirable” Idaho-Pocatello mission became a spiritual anchor. Cycles of Abuse & Accountability – candid reflections on being both victim and perpetrator in a toxic first marriage. From Radio Tears to Public Coaching – the leap that turned raw story-telling into a platform for service. Divorce Advocacy – founding OnlySubpoenas.com to guide others through complex, often hidden, legal and emotional battles. Temple Time & Self-Care – slowing down to let God recalibrate priorities amid relentless service. The Next Ten Years – Becky’s commitment to return annually and share how obedience shapes her unfolding story. 0:02:30 | Becky recalls her extroverted childhood and early “gusto.” 0:07:45 | The origin of shame → “stupid” label → food as comfort & secret binge-eating 0:15:05 | Deciding to serve an LDS mission when that was rare for young women. 0:22:05 | Receiving an unexpected call to the Idaho-Pocatello Mission—and its hidden purpose. 0:45:30 | Marriage #1: physical & emotional abuse, miscarriage surgeries, and the reinforcing “I deserve this” cycle. 0;59:30 | Spiritual wake-up in the Las Vegas Temple the day before starting a food-recovery program. 1:09:50 | First on-air breakdown: hosting a two-hour live radio show that launched public coaching. 1:29:50 | Maintaining goal weight while confronting external pressure and relapse fears. 1:37:10 | Filing for (second) divorce, learning legal strategy, and sensing God’s hand in timing. 2:00:58 | Birth of OnlySubpoenas.com—using detective skills to uncover hidden assets for clients. 2:10:05 | Setting boundaries: “I don’t need your permission to take care of myself.” 2:16:45 | Discovering a shared LDS backdrop with Jethro; looking ahead to yearly check-ins. 2:28:34 | Closing tears, gratitude, and blessing listeners to find Christ in their own trials. Links & Resources Companion 10-Year Journal: ADNTBF.com (https://adntbf.com) / ADecadeNeverToBeForgotten.com Becky’s divorce-advocacy firm: OnlySubpoenas.com

10. 

    1 Jun 2025

    Moses Lwakihugo's Incredible Journey of Faith

    Join host Jethro Jones as he sits down with Moses Lwakihugo, an immigrant from the Democratic Republic of the Congo with an unforgettable story. Moses shares his harrowing experiences of living through the war in the Congo, fleeing to Burundi and Kenya, and eventually finding peace and happiness in the U.S. Despite witnessing unthinkable atrocities, including the murder of his father, Moses's faith has remained steadfast, greatly influenced by the gospel of Jesus Christ. Today, he leads a multi-lingual, Swahili-speaking group in Spokane, Washington, where he helps immigrants acclimate to their new lives while spreading the message of hope and faith. Discover how Moses turned his pain into purpose and how his journey is inspiring countless others. 01:15 Moses's Journey to America 02:12 Faith and Family in Spokane 04:29 A Divine Encounter at WinCo 12:44 Joining the Church 15:54 Reflections on War and Faith 31:36 Helping Refugees and Giving Back 36:24 Experiences in the Church 37:33 A Life-Changing Decision 37:59 Connecting Across Continents 39:31 Translating the Gospel 41:01 Forming a Swahili Branch 41:31 Global Outreach Through Zoom 43:48 A Multilingual Congregation 45:32 Personal Testimonies and Experiences 53:54 The Importance of the Gospel 58:46 Reflections on Trials and Faith 01:05:07 A Miraculous Birth 01:06:38 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

11. 

    1 May 2025

    Nathan’s Story of Perseverance, Faith, and Finding Purpose

    In this deeply personal episode, host Jethro Jones sits down with his brother, Nathan Jones, to launch a unique decade-long podcast journey. Nathan opens up about formative childhood experiences, the impact of family and work ethic, and the trials that have shaped his life—including divorce, losing contact with his children, and wrestling with faith and purpose. Nathan shares candid reflections on overcoming adversity, the importance of support systems, and the ongoing process of healing and self-discovery. He discusses the challenges of balancing ambition with relationships, the pain of failure, and the hope that comes from recognizing blessings even in the darkest times. The conversation also explores Nathan’s career in construction and his dreams for the future, including real estate investing and building a meaningful life. This episode is the first in a series that will revisit Nathan’s journey each year for the next decade, offering listeners a rare, longitudinal look at growth, setbacks, and the pursuit of purpose. Whether you’re facing your own rock bottom or searching for hope, Nathan’s vulnerability and honesty will resonate. Key Topics: Childhood lessons and work ethic Coping with loss, shame, and failure Faith, church, and personal spirituality The importance of support systems Career fulfillment and future goals Advice to a younger self The power of perseverance and hope Join the Community: Want to be part of the Ten Year Journal? Visit adecadenevertobeforgotten.com (https://adecadenevertobeforgotten.com) to join the community and share your own journey. Connect: Host: Jethro Jones Guest: Nathan Jones (https://Facebook.com/nathanj916) Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction and podcast vision 3:00 – Nathan’s background and childhood 10:00 – Lessons from family and work ethic 18:00 – Overcoming adversity and loss 30:00 – Faith, church, and personal growth 45:00 – Career, goals, and the future 55:00 – Advice to a younger self 1:05:00 – The importance of support systems 1:15:00 – Final thoughts and looking ahead Join the Ten Year Journal community: adecadenevertobeforgotten.com (https://adecadenevertobeforgotten.com)

12. 

    1 Apr 2025

    Navigating Faith and Heritage with Jake Harmer Journey A Decade Never to be Forgotten

    A Decade Never to Be Forgotten: Jake Harmer's Journey In this engaging episode, we get an inside look into Jake Harmer’s life and his plans for the future. Jake, who has been married for ten years, has three children and another on the way, shares intriguing stories from his past in St. George, Utah, and his experiences in Brazil during his mission. Jake dives into his personal spiritual journey, sharing powerful testimonies and moments when he felt God's presence. He discusses his career in supply chain management and entrepreneurial ventures, including a family history storybook business using AI tools. Throughout the conversation, Jake reflects on the importance of balancing intellectual, spiritual, and practical aspects of faith and talks about the future he envisions, which includes raising his children and contributing to his community through his service in the church. 00:44 Jake Harmer's Background and Family Life 01:34 Mission Experiences and Life Lessons 05:22 Spiritual Journey and Testimony 08:27 Impact of Parental Divorce 09:17 Marriage and Family Dynamics 13:11 Faith Remodel and Intellectual Challenges 18:37 Service in the Church and Personal Growth 34:31 Career Path and Entrepreneurial Ventures 41:42 Family History and Legacy 50:30 Miraculous Stories and Testimonies 51:16 Personal Experiences of Divine Intervention 53:21 The Importance of Faith and Testimony 54:28 God's Personal Connection with Us 56:10 Life Lessons and Spiritual Growth 01:00:46 Facing Life's Challenges with Faith 01:08:06 Raising Children with Faith and Guidance 01:20:03 Future Aspirations and Reflections 01:28:35 The Role of AI in the Future 01:41:09 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

13. 

    1 Mar 2025

    Returning From a Mission: Savannah Dean

    Jethro introduces Savannah Dean, who reflects on her missionary experiences and spiritual growth. Savannah recounts her transformative journey during her 18-month mission, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good habits like scripture reading and prayer with faith to continue her spiritual progress. She candidly shares her struggles, growth, and the lessons learned in aligning her priorities with her faith. Savannah also discusses her future goals and the continuous process of self-improvement and spiritual fortification that will guide her over the next ten years. 01:47 Developing Good Habits 03:42 Praying with Faith 06:11 Returning to a Challenging Area 12:45 Balancing Life After Mission 21:01 Maintaining Connections 25:25 Deciding to Serve a Mission 33:39 Reflecting on Mission Experiences 36:10 Applying Mission Lessons in College 40:29 Struggles and Strategies for Spiritual Growth 58:17 The Importance of the Temple 01:00:20 Future Aspirations and Goals 01:03:25 Faith and Trust in God's Plan 01:06:32 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

14. 

    1 Feb 2025

    Preparing for the NFL - Connor Pay

    Join us as we sit down with BYU football star Connor Pay for an in-depth conversation about his journey, his ambitions, and his faith. In this episode, Connor discusses the inspiration behind his participation in 'A Decade Never to Be Forgotten,' his collegiate career, and his aspirations for the NFL. He shares powerful insights on balancing spiritual and mental preparation, overcoming challenges, and the importance of maintaining a relationship with God. Connor also provides practical advice for young people trying to gain their own testimony and recounts how his faith has guided him through life's unexpected turns. Don't miss this inspiring and insightful interview. 00:00 Introduction to the Project 01:29 Connor's Journey to the NFL 03:58 Mental and Spiritual Preparation 08:52 The Role of Faith and Community 21:40 Leadership and Overcoming Challenges 35:16 Maintaining Relationships and Faith 46:06 Unexpected Connections and Divine Miracles 46:57 Jurisdiction and Personal Revelation 48:55 Making Big Decisions with Divine Guidance 54:31 Handling Success and Failure with Faith 01:00:47 Striving for Perfection and Grace 01:10:06 Developing Christlike Attributes 01:15:15 Future Goals and Aspirations 01:23:46 Balancing Structure and Spirituality 01:28:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections

15. 

    1 Jan 2025

    Character and Growth: Cali Jones

    In this heartfelt conversation, 17-year-old Cali shares her experiences and personal growth through running, podcast editing, and balancing school life. Cali speaks about her determination, overcoming challenges, and the spiritual journey that has shaped her passion for running. She also discusses the importance of hard work, staying positive, and supporting others. Join us as we delve into her inspiring story and future ambitions, including her plans for running, college, and potentially serving a mission.

16. 

    3 Dec 2024

    Trusting Him: Jethro & Staci

    In this heartfelt conversation, Jethro and Staci share their journey through life's trials and the lessons they have learned about faith, trust, and the power of the atonement. They discuss the importance of open communication, the challenges of personal and professional development, and the spiritual growth that comes from trusting in Jesus Christ and seeking personal revelation. Through discussions on past and present challenges, they highlight how their reliance on the Lord has provided peace, guidance, and unexpected blessings. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 01:15 Reflecting on Childhood and Early Adulthood 02:33 Challenges of Raising a Child with Special Needs 05:59 The Mental Load of Marriage and Parenthood 10:58 Balancing Responsibilities and Communication 27:18 Spiritual Growth and Personal Revelation 51:02 The Power of Good Questions in Teaching 51:39 Encouraging Active Participation 53:21 Challenges in Teaching Aligned Curriculum 54:04 Creating a Spirit-Filled Classroom Environment 58:29 The Role of Questions in Effective Teaching 01:04:02 Personal Experiences with Spiritual Growth 01:08:45 The Impact of Personal Revelation 01:12:39 Trials and the Atonement of Christ 01:14:54 Navigating Life's Challenges with Faith 01:20:23 The Journey of Personal and Spiritual Growth 01:24:09 Embracing Change and Seeking Guidance 01:30:09 The Role of the Atonement in Overcoming Trials 01:36:36 Current Trials and Future Plans 01:38:53 Unstable Beginnings: Job Changes and Moving Plans 01:40:18 Miraculous House Hunt During the Pandemic 01:44:06 Consulting Career and Pandemic Challenges 01:45:33 Joining Superhuman Fathers: Personal Growth and Mistakes 01:46:25 Communication Breakdown: Marathon and Haircut Incidents 01:57:15 Financial Struggles and Trusting in the Lord 02:16:31 Reflecting on Trials and Future Goals

17. 

    15 Nov 2024

    Courtney Thornton - If you want to change the world, go home and love your family

    In the tapestry of life, certain moments stand out with clarity, defining who we are and shaping our future journey. For Courtney, a decade emerged from the ordinary, filled with trials, faith, sorrow, and ultimately, transformation. It is a testament to resilience and a deep dive into the life of someone who has decided to embark on a “Decade Never to Be Forgotten.” The Inspiration The concept was ignited by Elder Stevenson’s talk, which pricked Jethro’s heart, suggesting a decade that would be unforgettable. Inspired by the idea, Jethro reached out to Courtney, sparking the beginning of a reflective journey—documenting growth, changes, and the trials life presented over ten years. The Beginning: A Leap of Faith The journey begins with a recount of where Courtney and Jethro were a decade ago—Courtney, a kindergarten teacher with serious yet fulfilling challenges, and Jethro, her assistant principal in Alaska. Through the years, their paths diverged geographically but not in spirit, maintaining a connection that would anchor their current endeavor. The Trials and Triumphs Courtney opens up about the defining moments in her life, providing a raw and honest look into her experiences, many of which revolved around faith and family: Loss and Love: After the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Presley, born prematurely and living only six days, Courtney found solace and lessons in spirituality. She learned that her faith and relationship with Jesus Christ became her guiding light through darkness. Health Challenges: Facing unexplainable health issues, Courtney leaned heavily on her faith, drawing closer to her spirituality during moments of uncertainty, which prepared her emotionally for the trials to come. A Changed Perspective: From once being skeptical about homeschooling, Courtney embraced it, valuing the quality time and personal growth it afforded her children and herself. Her family’s shift towards healthier living reflected a broader change in their lifestyle, driven by newfound priorities centered on wellbeing and preparation for a future that included dreams of homesteading. A Journey of Growth and Reflection This journey is not just about enduring hardship but finding meaning and purpose through trials. For Courtney, it has been crucial to maintain a strong familial bond and ensure her home is a refuge from the tumult of the external world. Spiritual Foundations: Central to her journey is the commitment to living the gospel of Jesus Christ, inviting others to receive the gospel, caring for those in need, and uniting families for eternity. These divinely appointed responsibilities are interwoven into her daily life, driving her actions and decisions. An Unshakeable Faith: Despite the ongoing tests of life, Courtney’s faith is unwavering. She holds onto the belief that her connection with her daughter Presley transcends this earthly realm—looking forward to a spiritual reunion fostered by the covenants she’s kept. Looking Ahead: A Decade of Anticipation Courtney’s narrative is not yet complete. Looking toward the future, she envisions milestones such as establishing a farm, fostering patience as a parent, and maintaining a strong family bond. Importantly, she views each trial and triumph as a teaching moment, drawing her closer to her ultimate potential. Conclusion Through her resilient spirit and unwavering faith, Courtney’s journey over the next decade promises to be one of profound growth and transformation. As we sit on the cusp of her continued journey, we are invited to witness a testament of living deliberately—a Decade Never to Be Forgotten. Join us as we follow her story, guided by the hand of faith, the lessons of trials, and the hopes of tomorrow.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 46 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

80

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact A Decade Never to be Forgotten

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.