Ever Onward
The Missionary Wellness Center
5.0from 4 ratings
- 19
- Episodes
- 4
- Ratings
- 2024
- First episode
- 5B
- YouTube views
About Ever Onward
A weekly podcast, where a professional religious educator from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a licensed clinician provide valuable insights. Our episodes blend research and faith, offering entertaining and engaging content for future, current, and returned missionaries, as well as their families. Discover practical advice and support to help you succeed before, during, and after your mission. Tune in and be part of a community dedicated to lifelong learning and spiritual growth.
- Publisher
- The Missionary Wellness Center
- Category
- health & fitness
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 19 Aug 2024
- Latest episode
- 5 May 2025
Latest episodes
19 episodes in the feed.
5 May 2025
Brad Johnson: Thoughts from a Former Mission President part 2
What makes missionary service truly life-changing? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brad Johnson, former mission president of the Pennsylvania Pittsburgh Mission, to discuss the profound lessons of missionary work—from the struggles of homesickness to the miracles of transformation.Brad shares how his own mission in France & Switzerland shaped his life, the reality of mission expectations versus experiences, and the powerful growth that comes from overcoming challenges. He reflects on the unique struggles missionaries face, the impact of companionships, and the ways in which trust in God’s plan can turn unexpected transfers into life-changing moments.Whether you're preparing to serve, currently on a mission, or supporting a missionary, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and real talk about what it means to serve with heart, might, mind, and strength.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on mental health, missions, and everything in between!
21 Apr 2025
Brad Johnson: Thoughts from a Former Mission President part 1
What makes missionary service truly life-changing? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brad Johnson, former mission president of the Pennsylvania Pittsburgh Mission, to discuss the profound lessons of missionary work—from the struggles of homesickness to the miracles of transformation.Brad shares how his own mission in France & Switzerland shaped his life, the reality of mission expectations versus experiences, and the powerful growth that comes from overcoming challenges. He reflects on the unique struggles missionaries face, the impact of companionships, and the ways in which trust in God’s plan can turn unexpected transfers into life-changing moments.Whether you're preparing to serve, currently on a mission, or supporting a missionary, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and real talk about what it means to serve with heart, might, mind, and strength.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on mental health, missions, and everything in between!
7 Apr 2025
Brett and Amy Horsley: The Lord's Work Never Stops Part 2
Ever wondered what it’s like to lead a mission during a global pandemic? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brett and Amy Horsley, former mission leaders in Brazil, to talk about the unique highs, unprecedented struggles, and powerful lessons of guiding missionaries through extraordinary times.The Horsley's share their journey—from their initial call to serve, to navigating the complexities of a mission field dramatically altered by COVID-19. They open up about the heartbreak of seeing missionaries depart, the miracle of technology arriving just in time, and the innovative ways they fostered connection and spiritual growth. They dive into the hardest parts of leading through uncertainty, the moments that revealed the enduring power of faith, and the unexpected ways trials can forge unbreakable testimonies. Whether you're a returned missionary, preparing to serve, or simply seeking inspiration, the Horsleys' story is a must-listen. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on faith, resilience, and finding light in challenging times!
24 Mar 2025
Brett and Amy Horsley: The Lord's Work Never Stops Part 1
Ever wondered what it’s like to lead a mission during a global pandemic? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Brett and Amy Horsley, former mission leaders in Brazil, to talk about the unique highs, unprecedented struggles, and powerful lessons of guiding missionaries through extraordinary times.The Horsley's share their journey—from their initial call to serve, to navigating the complexities of a mission field dramatically altered by COVID-19. They open up about the heartbreak of seeing missionaries depart, the miracle of technology arriving just in time, and the innovative ways they fostered connection and spiritual growth. They dive into the hardest parts of leading through uncertainty, the moments that revealed the enduring power of faith, and the unexpected ways trials can forge unbreakable testimonies. Whether you're a returned missionary, preparing to serve, or simply seeking inspiration, the Horsleys' story is a must-listen. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on faith, resilience, and finding light in challenging times!
10 Mar 2025
Marla Gale & Gather Gems: Gathering Israel & Missionary Work Beyond the Name tag
In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Marla Gale, Co-Founder of Gather Gems jewelry, to explore the beautiful intersection of missionary work, motherhood, and the gathering of Israel. Maria, a mother of five, shares her journey of finding her own unique missionary path despite not serving a traditional mission. She explains how the spirit of missionary work can thrive in any season of life—especially through motherhood, which she describes as a sacred, lifelong mission with profound similarities to formal missionary service. The conversation delves into President Nelson's call for all members to participate in gathering Israel, with Maria explaining how her passion led to creating faith-inspired jewelry that celebrates each person's unique spiritual gifts. "God is probably anxiously excited," Maria shares. "I picture the gathering like we're getting ready for this big celebration." Both discuss how stepping out of our comfort zones invites divine help, whether as missionaries, mothers, or in any service capacity. Maria offers heartfelt encouragement for listeners feeling called to do more: "If you have desires to serve God, you are called to the work," referencing Doctrine and Covenants section 4. She emphasizes that God will use our unique talents—even ones we don't know we have yet—if we simply ask Him how we can help gather Israel in our own way. Whether you're a returned missionary, a mother finding your way, or someone searching for your place in this great work, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom for contributing to the gathering of Israel in ways both bold and quiet. Listen now for a conversation that will inspire you to embrace your unique role in God's accelerating work. Gather Gems Website: https://gathergems.com
24 Feb 2025
Duncan Viehweg - Expectations vs. Reality: Lessons from the Mission Field
Ever wondered what it’s really like to come home from a mission? In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball sits down with Duncan Viehweg, a recently returned missionary, to talk about the highs, the struggles, and the unexpected lessons of mission life.Duncan shares his journey—from childhood dreams of serving a mission to overcoming unexpected obstacles just to get out into the field. He opens up about the pressure of expectations, how reality rarely matches the stories we grow up hearing, and the powerful shift that comes when we let go and trust God's timing.They dive into the hardest parts of his mission, the moments that changed him forever, and the little miracles that made every challenge worth it. Whether you're preparing for a mission, currently serving, or adjusting to post-mission life, Duncan’s story is a must-listen.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on mental health, missions, and everything in between!
10 Feb 2025
Elder Castleton: Discovering Talents and Using Them to Serve
Ready for a story that'll make you smile? On this episode ofEver Onward, Katie Ball chats with Elder Logan Castleton – you might know him better as theRapping Missionary. They dive deep into Logan's fascinating path, where a heart condition turned his traditional mission plans upside down and led him to something unexpected: a service mission! What happens when life throws you a curveball? Logan opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of switching from traditional missionary work to a service mission, and how he stumbled upon his superpower – using rap to spread joy and light to others. It's exactly what you need to hear if you've ever felt like your path doesn't quite match what you imagined. Get ready for an great conversation about pushing past the fear of what others think, embracing your unique gifts (even the unconventional ones!), and finding peace when God's plan looks nothing like what you expected. Logan's story isn't just inspiring – it's proof that sometimes the most beautiful journeys start with a detour. Catch this episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. Hit that subscribe button to join us for more authentic conversations about mental health and mission life!
27 Jan 2025
Jared Halverson: Trusting God Through the Transition Home
In this episode of Ever Onward, Katie Ball welcomes back Jared Halverson, a BYU professor and host of the Unshaken Saints podcast. This time, they dive into the unique challenges returned missionaries face. Jared offers practical advice on balancing spiritual growth with new responsibilities like school, work, and relationships. They explore how to carry the lessons and habits from the mission into everyday life and why it's important to trust God's process. Jared also shares tips for parents on supporting their returned missionaries with love and patience, even during faith transitions. If you’re a returned missionary or a parent, this episode is filled with relatable stories, uplifting insights, and encouragement to keep moving forward in faith. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations about mental health and missions! Links to Unshaken Saints: Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Unshaken Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unshakensaints/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5OJapdCMXI6c4QtEXClvO7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unshaken-saints/id1535358465
13 Jan 2025
Jared Halverson: Faith, Fear, and the First Few Months as a Missionary
Katie Ball sits down with Jared Halverson, a BYU professor, to share his powerful journey from mission call to missionary life, normalizing struggles and finding spiritual strength through scripture.
6 Jan 2025
Caitlyn Ludlow: When Missions Don’t Go as Planned
In this episode of Ever Onward, host Katie Ball sits down with Caitlyn Ludlow to discuss her journey as a missionary. Caitlyn shares her experiences of deciding to serve, facing mental health challenges in the field, and ultimately returning home early. Together, they explore the stigma surrounding early returns, the emotional struggles that come with it, and the unexpected blessings Caitlyn discovered along the way. Her story is a powerful reminder that resilience, faith, and support can turn life's hardest moments into opportunities for growth. Tune in to hear Caitlyn’s inspiring story! Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on mental health and missions!
18 Nov 2024
Ryan Marks: Coming Home Early
In this episode of Ever Onward, host Katie Ball interviews Ryan Marks, a football player at Utah State University, who shares his inspiring journey of balancing athletics with his faith. Ryan opens up about the difficult choices he faced between pursuing a college football career and serving a mission, the challenges he encountered during his mission, and the unexpected turns that ultimately brought him home earlier than planned. Through his experiences, Ryan reveals how his faith guided him through adversity, the lessons he learned about personal revelation, and the transformative role service has played in his life. Tune in to Ever Onward on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube to discover Ryan’s unique story and learn how resilience, trust, and faith can lead us to paths we never anticipated.
21 Oct 2024
Ever Onward: Service Missions Part 2
In this episode of Ever Onward, host Katie Ball continues the conversation with Elder and Sister Clawson, service mission leaders in the Ogden, Utah mission. They dive deeper into the unique role of service missionaries, addressing common myths and highlighting the evolving opportunities available. The Clawsons share inspiring stories about the impact of service missions, the collaboration between proselyting and service missionaries, and the personal growth experienced by missionaries who transition to service roles. Tune in to Ever Onward on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube to hear more about the powerful ways service missions are shaping lives and strengthening communities.
14 Oct 2024
Ever Onward: Service Missions Part 1
In this episode of Ever Onward, host Katie Ball interviews Elder and Sister Clawson, service mission leaders for the Ogden, Utah mission. They discuss the integration of service missions with proselyting missions, how the process has evolved, and the unique opportunities service missionaries now have. The Clawsons also share insights into the various service assignments available, how missionaries find success in their roles, and the growing importance of service missions in helping young adults thrive. Tune in to learn more about the transformation of service missions and how these opportunities help build lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ.
30 Sept 2024
Ever Onward: Sending out Missionaries
In this episode of Ever Onward, hosts Katie Ball and Maria Hunsaker, both therapists at the Missionary Wellness Center, share their personal experiences and strategies for coping with the emotional challenges of sending out missionaries. They open up about the struggles of saying goodbye, managing anxiety, and trusting their children to navigate the difficulties of missionary life. Katie and Maria offer practical techniques, such as box breathing and physical movement, to help parents manage their own stress and support their missionaries from afar. They also emphasize the importance of trusting Heavenly Father and building a strong support network. If you're a parent navigating the emotions of having a missionary in the field, this episode provides valuable insights and resources to help you feel less alone.
16 Sept 2024
Ever Onward: Perfectionism
In this episode of Ever Onward, professional religious educator Eric Stauffer and licensed therapist Katie Ball discuss the challenges of perfectionism, a common struggle many missionaries face as they strive to meet high expectations. You'll learn how the pressure to be perfect can intensify during a mission and how it can lead to discouragement or mental health challenges if not properly addressed. Katie and Eric share practical insights to help you shift from perfectionism to progress, offering strategies for embracing imperfections with self-compassion. They emphasize the value of consistent effort over perfection in both personal growth and spiritual development. Whether you're a missionary, a parent, or someone looking to understand the effects of perfectionism on personal development, this episode offers valuable guidance for living with faith and resilience. Want to learn more about perfectionism? Visit our website for additional resources!
9 Sept 2024
Ever Onward: Anxiety
Ever Onward is a podcast where professional religious educator Eric Stauffer and licensed therapist Katie Ball discuss topics to support missionaries' mental health journey while staying rooted in the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This week, they dive into the complex topic of anxiety, a feeling that many missionaries face during their service. Eric and Katie explore why anxiety can increase on a mission and how it can actually serve as a tool for growth when properly managed. They share practical insights on understanding anxiety’s role, avoiding cognitive distortions, and learning to navigate high-pressure environments. Together, they offer guidance on how to embrace anxiety as part of the human experience, without letting it overpower your mission. Whether you're a missionary, a parent, or someone who wants to understand how anxiety fits into personal and spiritual development, this episode provides valuable insights. Tune in to Ever Onward to learn how to manage anxiety with faith and resilience. Now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube!
2 Sept 2024
Ever Onward: Facing Rejection
Ever Onward is a podcast where professional religious educator Eric Stauffer and licensed therapist Katie Ball discuss topics to support missionaries' mental health journey while staying rooted in the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This week, they tackle the challenging topic of facing rejection, a common experience for missionaries. Eric and Katie share insights on how to handle rejection with resilience and faith, drawing on real-life experiences and practical advice. They discuss the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, relying on spiritual strength, and turning rejection into an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. Whether you're a missionary, a parent, or simply interested in personal development, this episode offers valuable lessons on how to overcome setbacks and keep moving forward on your journey. Tune in to Ever Onward to learn more about handling life’s challenges with grace and resilience. Now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube!
26 Aug 2024
Ever Onward: Companionships & Conflict
Ever Onward is a podcast where professional religious educator Eric Stauffer and licensed therapist Katie Ball discuss topics to support missionaries mental health journey while staying rooted in the correct doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This week, they tackle the topic of companionships and the conflicts that can arise when missionaries are paired together. Eric and Katie share insights on how to navigate these challenges with understanding and respect, using real-life experiences and practical advice. They discuss the importance of communication, setting healthy boundaries, and turning conflicts into opportunities for growth. Whether you're a missionary, a parent, or simply interested in personal development, this episode offers valuable lessons on building strong relationships and moving forward in your journey. Tune in to Ever Onward to learn more about how to handle the ups and downs of life with grace and resilience.
19 Aug 2024
Welcome to Ever Onward
ver Onward is a podcast hosted by a licensed clinical therapist and a professional religious educator dedicated to supporting an individual's mental health journey while staying rooted in the correct doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Tune in for thoughtful discussions that integrate the teachings of Jesus Christ with evidence-based mental health practices. Whether the listener is pre-missionary, a returned missionary, a parent, or someone seeking greater spiritual and emotional well-being, Ever Onward will uplift and provide guidance. In this introduction, you will meet our two co-hosts: Eric Stauffer and Katie Ball Want to learn more? Visit missionarywellnesscenter.org
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
- YouTube views
- 4,657,798,816
- Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
- Apple Podcasts (US)
- 5.0 / 5
- 2 ratings
- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 49 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 49
- Social presence
- 0
- YouTube
- 93
- Engagement
- 32
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