Welcome to ’The Star 3rd Ward Podcast’, a unique audio journey designed to bring the members of our ward family closer together. Our mission is to capture and share the diverse stories that weave the fabric of our community, offering a window into the lives, experiences, and hearts of those we may see every Sunday but wish to know more deeply.
Each episode, we invite members of our ward to share their stories, testimonies, challenges, and triumphs. From the inspiring to the everyday, these narratives are the threads that bind us, promoting a greater sense of unity and strengthening the bonds within our spiritual family.
Join us as we embark on this journey of connection, discovery, and fellowship. Through the power of shared stories, we aim to foster an environment of understanding, empathy, and support, enriching our ward community and drawing us closer to one another and to the gospel we cherish.
’The Star 3rd Ward Podcast’ isn’t just about listening—it’s about coming together to celebrate the unique individuals that make our ward family what it is. Tune in to connect, to learn, and to strengthen our ties, one story at a time.
Moving Forward: David & Kim Hershey’s Journey of Faith, Family, and Resilience
In this inspiring episode of the Star 3rd Ward Podcast, we sit down with David and Kim Hershey to hear the remarkable story of how two very different paths came together in a journey filled with love, laughter, and faith. From a blind date that almost didn’t happen to the challenges of military life, raising five children, and experiencing both heartache and healing, David and Kim open up about the highs and lows that shaped their life together.
David shares his experience as a Marine during Desert Storm, his transition into civilian life, and how a chance invitation to church changed everything. Kim reflects on being a young single mother, her testimony of the gospel, and how her children helped guide her back to Christ. Their story also touches on deep loss, career shifts, public service, and the quiet strength of enduring faith.
With humor, honesty, and warmth, the Hersheys show what it means to move forward—together—through life’s unexpected turns. This episode is a celebration of second chances, spiritual growth, and the power of love grounded in commitment and community.
29 Jul 2025
From Dance Floors to Devotion: The Jones Family Journey
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Troy and Sarah Jones to hear the inspiring story of their family’s journey—from their first dance at a UVU institute activity to building a Christ-centered home in the 3rd Ward. Moving into the ward during the height of the pandemic, they share how an unexpected knock on the door from Bishop Wood helped them instantly feel welcomed.
Troy reflects on serving a mission in Thailand and his path as a software architect, while Sarah opens up about her passion for dance and how motherhood ultimately became her dream career. Together, they talk about balancing faith, family, and fun—whether it’s throwing the kids into a cold lake to “force a good memory,” restoring a family cabin in the mountains, or raising daughters with unique personalities and talents.
They also share meaningful thoughts on parenting with intention, the importance of prayer in family life, and the quiet but powerful ways the Spirit guides their choices. With warmth, humor, and love, the Joneses invite us into their family story and remind us of the blessings that come from gathering—both as families and as a ward.
30 Apr 2025
Why We Belong: Reflections from Jason and Debby Holt
In this heartfelt episode of The Star 3rd Ward Podcast, we sit down with Jason and Debby Holt as they prepare to transition out of the ward they’ve deeply influenced. Through laughter, tears, and treasured memories, the Holts reflect on the unexpected ways the Lord shaped their time in Star—from Debby’s powerful conversion experience to her transformative service as Relief Society President.
With humility and honesty, they share how ministering became a doorway to true belonging, how meaningful friendships—like the one between their son Brandon and Dallin—were clearly orchestrated by divine design, and how seemingly small acts of service, like delivering bread and eggs, opened hearts and homes. Jason offers touching insight into supporting others through callings, while Debby’s reflections on learning to love, lead, and let go offer wisdom for anyone navigating change.
This is more than a farewell—it’s a reminder that when we open ourselves to growth, connection, and trust in the Lord’s timing, we find exactly where we belong.
25 Apr 2025
From Addiction to Atonement: Jeff Wood’s Journey of Faith, Family, and Service
In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Star 3rd Ward Podcast, Ryan sits down with Jeff Wood—beloved former bishop, interpreter, chaplain, and a pillar of empathy within our community. Jeff opens up about his deeply personal journey growing up in a family profoundly affected by addiction, his own struggles, and the life-changing moment when the Atonement of Jesus Christ reshaped his path forever.
From Southern California roots to missionary service in Washington, D.C., and eventually building a life and legacy here in Star, Idaho, Jeff’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and deep compassion. He shares the transformative power of an inspired bishop’s love, his unexpected introduction to sign language through family, and his current role as a chaplain for the Ada County Sheriff’s Department—a calling that allows him to minister to first responders with the same empathy that has defined his life.
This conversation dives into the unseen battles, the miracles of second chances, and the importance of letting Christ’s love shape our interactions with others. Jeff’s honesty, humility, and humor shine through every story he shares—offering listeners a testament of hope, service, and enduring faith.
Tune in to discover how Jeff Wood’s life stands as a living witness to the power of the Atonement and the beauty of a heart committed to lifting others.
24 Apr 2025
Seeing in Color: The Houghtons’ Journey of Church, Change, and Choosing Again
What happens when the path you were raised to walk no longer feels like your own? In this episode, Cole and Libby Houghton open up about their winding spiritual journey—one marked by tradition, transformation, and the courage to choose again.
From growing up in strong Latter-day Saint families to serving missions and marrying young, the Houghtons began adulthood immersed in the church. But when Cole shared his doubts just six weeks into marriage, everything shifted. Together, they navigated disconnection, cultural pressures, and multiple moves across the country—each bringing new perspectives on belief, community, and identity.
Through deeply honest reflection, they share what it was like to step away from church, rediscover spirituality in unexpected places, and ultimately find their way back—not out of obligation, but desire. With humor, humility, and hope, Cole and Libby remind us that faith doesn’t have to be black and white. Sometimes, the most sacred journeys begin when we finally start seeing in color.
21 Mar 2025
Stories That Bind: Jane and Gordon Browning
In this heartfelt episode of the Star 3rd Ward Podcast, we sit down with Jane and Gordon Browning to explore the stories that have shaped their lives—and the quiet strength that binds them together.
From a chance meeting at church as teenagers in Central California to 65 years of marriage, raising eight children, and serving a mission at the Family History Center in Salt Lake, Jane and Gordon share a journey filled with faith, sacrifice, and enduring love. Gordon reflects on his pioneering work in fiber optics—helping lay the foundation for the internet—while Jane offers wisdom from the home front, holding the family together through decades of change.
Together, they reflect on the hand of the Lord in their lives, the promises of eternal covenants, and the joy of watching their posterity grow. This episode is a reminder that it’s not just the big moments that define us, but the stories we carry, the people we love, and the faith that binds it all.
14 Mar 2025
Faith, Loss, and New Beginnings: Jeremy Aldrich’s Journey
In this heartfelt episode, Ryan Riley sits down with Jeremy Aldrich, a dedicated and selfless member of the Star 3rd Ward, to uncover the depth of his journey through faith, family, and resilience. Jeremy shares his story of love, loss, and rebuilding—growing up in Star, meeting his wife Jocelyn, raising a family, and the heartbreaking experience of losing her to cancer. With raw honesty, he reflects on navigating grief, finding strength in the Lord, and embracing love again with his wife Mary.
Jeremy’s journey is one of endurance, faith, and divine guidance—even when facing Everest (literally). Through his experiences, he offers wisdom on cherishing family, trusting in God’s plan, and the power of leaning on others when life feels overwhelming.
Join us for an inspiring conversation about love, loss, and the unexpected paths that lead us to joy.
13 Mar 2025
Faith, Family, and Finding Purpose: The Life of Brother Tom Janness
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Brother Tom Janness, a beloved and humble member of our ward, to hear his incredible life story. From his early childhood in North Dakota and Montana to his distinguished career as a professor at the University of Idaho, Brother Janness shares memories of faith, family, and perseverance.
He reflects on his experiences with education, debate, and theater, as well as the deep lessons he learned through marriage, fatherhood, and later, finding love again after loss. With wisdom gained over decades of service in the Church, Brother Janness offers invaluable advice on strengthening marriages, staying spiritually engaged, and finding purpose after great change.
Join us as we celebrate the journey of a man who has touched countless lives through his kindness, dedication, and unwavering faith.
25 Feb 2025
Faith, Family & Fifty-Nine Years: The Faulkner’s Journey of Love and Devotion
In this heartfelt episode of The Star Third Ward Podcast, host Ryan Riley sits down with Steve and Maureen Faulkner to share their incredible story of love, faith, and family. Married for nearly 59 years, the Faulkners take us back to their first meeting as teenagers in Hawthorne, California, their young love, and the life-changing decision to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
They open up about the joys and challenges of raising six children, the strength they found in their faith through life's hardships, and how the gospel has shaped their journey. From Steve’s career in the meat industry to Maureen’s impressive success in direct sales, their story is one of dedication, resilience, and unwavering belief in God's plan.
Tune in as they share treasured memories—from being sealed as a family in the Los Angeles Temple to the incredible experiences that strengthened their faith over the years. Their story is a testament to the power of love, community, and the blessings of the gospel.
Join us for an inspiring conversation that reminds us of the importance of faith, family, and the connections that make us stronger.
31 Jan 2025
Faith, Family, and the Journey of a Lifetime: Brother Cattin’s Story
In this powerful episode of The Star 3rd Ward Podcast, we sit down with Brother Gerard Cattin, whose journey of faith spans continents, cultures, and generations. Growing up in Switzerland in a family that discovered the gospel through an act of pure charity, Brother Cattin shares the incredible story of how his grandmother’s conversion to the Church changed the course of their family’s history.
From surviving the turmoil of World War II to helping build the Swiss Temple, Brother Cattin’s story is a testament to faith in action. He also reflects on the challenges of living the gospel in a place where the Church was small and facing opposition, his experiences serving as a young missionary in France and Belgium, and the personal sacrifices he made to stand firm in his beliefs—even while serving in the Swiss military.
Join us for this inspiring conversation about faith, resilience, and the power of service. Brother Cattin’s experiences remind us that the gospel is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live, love, and serve others.
Tune in to hear his remarkable journey and discover what it truly means to be a disciple of Christ in every circumstance.
21 Aug 2024
A Journey of Faith and Friendship: Dallan Riley & Brandon Holt’s Missionary Send-Off
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Dallan Riley and Brandon Holt, two recent high school graduates from our ward, who are about to embark on their missionary journeys. As they prepare to leave—Brandon in just a week and Dallan in early September—they reflect on their deep friendship and how it has shaped their faith.
Dallan and Brandon share insights into their high school experience, discussing the importance of choosing friends who uplift and inspire. They also speak warmly about Brother Fisher, a mentor who has had a profound impact on their spiritual growth.
Listen in as they talk about their experiences working in the temple and how it has helped them prepare for their missions. This episode is a beautiful testament to the power of friendship, the guidance of strong mentors, and the sacred journey of preparing to serve. Whether you’re preparing for a mission, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking inspiration, Dallan and Brandon’s stories will resonate deeply.
Join us for this inspiring conversation as we send off two of our ward’s finest with love, faith, and a community’s blessings.
11 May 2024
Unexpected Journeys: Cory and Jodi Winegar on Faith, Challenges, and Divine Detours
In this enlightening episode of The Star 3rd Ward Podcast, join us as we explore the winding paths of life with Cory and Jodi Winegar. From the serendipitous moments of how they met to the rigorous challenges of medical school, the Winegars share their story, reminiscent of a 'Family Circle' comic strip, full of unexpected twists and profound faith.
Discover how their journey, though filled with ups and downs, has been guided by a deeper understanding that the path Heavenly Father has for us might not always align with our initial plans. Cory and Jodi's experiences highlight the beauty of embracing divine detours and finding joy in the journey. Tune in to find inspiration in their story and perhaps reflect on the unexpected paths in your own life.
19 Apr 2024
The Thomases - Building Faith and Foundations at the Rome Temple
In this inspiring episode of 'The Star 3rd Ward Podcast,' we delve into the remarkable journey of Pat and DeAnn Thomas and their significant roles in the construction of the Rome Temple. Their story is a testament to faith, dedication, and divine guidance.
Pat Thomas, serving as the landscape superintendent, was pivotal in bringing to life the vision of the temple's site plan and landscape architecture. His expertise and commitment ensured that the grounds of the temple would not only be beautiful but also a serene sanctuary reflecting the spirit of the sacred structure.
Sister DeAnn Thomas contributed in a vital public relations capacity, supporting the overall project and facilitating the visits of Church leaders. Her role was crucial in bridging communication between the Church, the community, and all stakeholders involved, ensuring that the project not only progressed smoothly but also fostered goodwill and understanding.
Together, Pat and DeAnn share their personal experiences and the challenges they faced during this monumental project. They reflect on the profound sense of the hand of the Lord guiding their efforts and the miraculous moments that underscored their service. This episode is not just about the construction of a temple but about building foundations of faith and the deep impact such service can have on individual lives and the broader community.
Join us for a conversation with the Thomases as they recount the spiritual journey of building not just one of the Church’s most significant structures but also their own lasting legacy of faith and dedication.
16 Apr 2024
The Mechams - Love, Labor, and Life's Lessons
In this episode of 'The Star 3rd Ward Podcast,' we sit down with Brother and Sister Mecham to explore their heartfelt journey through life, love, and the lessons they've learned along the way. Their story begins at Utah State, where their paths first crossed, setting the stage for a lifelong partnership grounded in mutual respect and affection.
Brother Blaine Mecham shares insights from his years working alongside his father on the family farm, reflecting on the deep-seated values of hard work and perseverance that have shaped him. Yet, amidst the demanding farm life, the Mechams open up about their regrets, particularly the times spent away from family and the initial lack of emphasis on temple attendance, highlighting how these experiences have realigned their priorities over the years.
Beyond the fields, Brother and Sister Mecham also share their passion for sports and music—a testament to their belief in living a balanced life. From golf and tennis to their musical endeavors, these hobbies have not only brought joy but also valuable life lessons and family bonding opportunities.
Rounding out their narrative is the touching story of adopting their middle child during a simpler time, adding a unique and enriching chapter to their family life. The Mechams discuss the joys and challenges of raising five children, the evolution of their family dynamics, and the deep love that has been both a foundation and a guide through their journey together.
Join us as the Mechams offer a window into their lives, filled with enduring love, the rewards of hard labor, and the wisdom gained from a life well-lived. Their story is a beautiful reminder of the importance of family, faith, and finding joy in every aspect of life.
8 Apr 2024
Sister Lorraine Ball - A Lifetime of Love, Service, and Faith
In this heartfelt second episode of 'The Star 3rd Ward Podcast,' we are honored to welcome Sister Lorraine Ball, a beloved member of our ward family, who shares with us her rich tapestry of life experiences woven through love, wisdom, and an unwavering faith. With a spirit as nourishing as the meals she lovingly prepares, Sister Lorraine opens up about the pillars that have supported her through six decades of marriage with her husband, Ralph, and the challenges that have deepened her testimony.
Sister Lorraine's story is a testament to the enduring power of family, connection, and community service. She takes us on a journey through her life, highlighting the significant role that food and service play in bringing people together and fostering lasting bonds. From meeting Ralph to celebrating 60 years of companionship, her narrative is sprinkled with insights on maintaining relationships, the importance of the temple, and the strength found in the teachings of the Savior.
This episode is not just a recounting of personal history but a profound reflection on the Plan of Happiness that Heavenly Father has for each of us. Sister Lorraine's experiences offer a mirror to our own lives, encouraging us to cherish our loved ones, serve our community, and grow our faith through the trials and joys of life.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Sister Lorraine Ball, as we explore the essence of what makes life truly meaningful. Her wisdom and testimony are gifts to our ward, reminding us of the beauty in our journey together toward eternal happiness.
8 Apr 2024
What's it like to be a new Bishop and why are we doing this podcast.
In our inaugural episode of 'The Star 3rd Ward Podcast,' we sit down with Bishop Bryant to delve into the heart of our community and the purpose behind this podcast. As a new bishop, he shares his personal journey, the challenges and insights gained from stepping into this pivotal role within our ward, and how it has shaped his vision for our community.
This episode goes beyond just an introduction; it's a foundational conversation that sets the stage for why we're launching this podcast. Bishop Bryant opens up about the transition into his new role, the responsibilities it entails, and the hopes he harbors for our ward family. Together, we explore the power of storytelling in building connections, fostering understanding, and strengthening the ties that bind us as a community of faith.
Why are we doing this? It's simple yet profound: to help each member of our ward feel more connected, understood, and valued. By sharing our stories, we not only get to know each other better but also weave a tighter fabric of unity and support throughout our ward family.
We conclude with a call to action for all our listeners. This podcast is more than just a series of episodes; it's a communal effort to bring our ward family closer. We encourage you to be a part of this journey by sharing your stories, offering your insights, and helping us create a platform that truly represents the spirit of our ward.
Join us for a heartwarming discussion that promises to inspire, unite, and remind us of the beauty of our shared journey in faith.
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