Shows
BYU-Idaho Radio HeadlinesEvening headlines for August 28, 2025These are your evening headlines for August 28, 2025Idaho state police is warning the public about a phone scam where callers are spoofing ISP numbers, making it appear the calls are coming from official dispatch centers.When sister missionaries for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and college students enter demanding seasons of life, Lucy Fotu is helping them do more than just survive; she’s helping them thrive.
2025-08-2903 min
BYU-Idaho RadioRise and Thrive: empowering sister missionaries and students to flourishWhile on her mission in Florida, Fort Lauderdale and the Mormon Battalion Historic Sites, Lucy Fotu noticed a need amongst sister missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: betterment of their physical health. When she returned home she decided to create the online wellness program to help support sister missionaries serving all over the world.
2025-08-2910 min
The Soulful Project PodcastWellness Rewritten | Rise and Thrive with Lucy FotuSend a textLucy Fotu, of St. George Utah, is the 24 year old health and wellness coach of Rise and Thrive; a rising movement for young adult women to transform their relationship with food, faith, and fitness. Lucy's inspiration comes from personal experiences with body image and comparison during high school and college. Having gained so much wisdom from these impactful moments and further soul-stretching opportunities as a missionary during the COVID pandemic, Lucy reveals how she's discovered her life's purpose and worth. Get ready to 'lock in' to this episode as I chat with an old...
2025-04-0744 min
Rise & ThriveAccepting God's Plan: Lataya BrostIn this episode, we get to know Lataya as she shares stories from her childhood, her experience playing college soccer at both New Mexico and Utah Tech, and her mission in Brazil. Although she initially didn’t plan to serve a mission, Lataya explains how receiving a blessing and praying about it confirmed it was the right decision for her. She shares powerful insights about the importance of serving others and focusing outward as keys to success in life.
2024-12-0948 minRise & ThriveCHARITY: Anna KongaikaIn this episode, Anna shares her story, taking us from her childhood memories on the island of Oahu to the chilly transitions of northern Utah. A central theme of charity weaves through her experiences, shaping her outlook on life. Anna opens up about her mission in Las Vegas, offering honest insights into the challenges of working with companions and the joy that comes from focusing on Christlike attributes. We also explore the importance of finding humor in missionary life and staying true to yourself throughout the process.
2024-11-2553 minRise & ThriveHow Do You Handle Hard?: Hailey ChurchIn this episode, Hailey shares her powerful experiences of seeing God’s hand in her life. From stepping off a plane after a humanitarian trip only to find out that her family had decided to move from the place she grew up, to navigating the ups and downs of serving a mission, and facing a challenging trial with her fiancé at the time, Hailey’s journey is one of faith, growth, and resilience.She offers messages of hope and challenges us to consider how we can uplift and serve "the one." Hailey also emphasizes the importance of obser...
2024-11-181h 00Rise & ThriveGratitude and Grace: Kalli HarrisIn this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Kalli Harris and getting to know her vibrant and beautiful personality as she shares her life story. Kalli opens up about the profound experience of losing her dad shortly before her mission and how she navigated—and continues to navigate—that loss with strength and faith. She also shares the impact of two individuals who changed her life while serving in both Brazil and Las Vegas. For those seeking an eternal companion, Kalli offers thoughtful advice on how to prepare and find that special person.
2024-11-1146 minRise & ThriveJoy Has Everything to Do with the Focus of Our Lives; Jared FotuIn this episode, I sit down with my husband, Jared, for our first in-person recording. Jared shares his experience growing up in a family of 15, highlighting how his siblings have been incredible examples to him throughout his life. He also reflects on the pivotal role his parents and siblings have played in shaping the person he is today.Jared opens up about a life-changing car accident during his junior year of high school and how it shifted his perspective on what truly matters in life. He also shares stories from his mission in New Hampshire, recounting a...
2024-11-0454 minRise & ThriveDare to Stand Alone; Natalie NeuhausIn this episode, Natalie shares her story of growing up in Nashville, her decision to serve a mission, and personal experiences of standing firm in her beliefs, even when she had to stand alone. She sets an inspiring example of surrendering her will to God’s and continually striving to focus on the Savior.
2024-10-2851 minRise & ThriveGrounded in God; Kate AndersonIn this episode, Kate opens up about the joy and hope she has found through her testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. She reflects on her mission in Bolivia, where she experienced God's love through the people she served. However, her faith was profoundly tested upon returning home when she faced one of life's greatest challenges—the loss of a parent. Kate shares how she not only leaned on the experiences from her mission but also deepened her relationship with God through prayer, finding strength to navigate her grief. She offers heartfelt advice and counsel to anyone going th...
2024-10-2155 minRise & ThriveSet Goals & Make Plans with God; Lauren CookIn this episode, Lauren shares the realities of both the joys and trails of serving a mission. She offers guidance on dealing with companions, managing feelings of homesickness, and staying connected with friends back home. Lauren also discusses how she focuses on Christ's doctrine rather than culture and advises listeners to turn to the prophets and their guidance in daily life.
2024-10-1447 minRise & ThriveFocusing More on the Savior & His Doctrine; Kaitlyn QuackenbushIn this episode, Kaitlyn shares how she relied on the Lord during her time serving in both Missouri and Sweden throughout the pandemic. She also offers advice on how to start preparing for a mission now. Kaitlyn emphasizes the importance of loving others through God's eyes and focusing on your relationship with God and your covenants, rather than being quick to judge others.
2024-10-0749 minRise & ThriveInvolving the Lord in Every Decision We Make; Grace EvansIn this episode, Grace shares her story of being raised in LA with both parents serving in the LAPD. She opens up about her personal struggles as a young teen and offers counsel to those facing similar challenges. Grace discusses how she learned to involve the Lord in her decision-making and how His guidance helped her through difficult times. She reflects on her mission experience in Washington, D.C., the people she came to love, and the life-changing moments she had while serving. Throughout the episode, Grace encourages us to never judge others and to rely on the Lord...
2024-09-3051 minRise & ThriveTrusting in God's Plan; Mason PateneIn this episode, Mason shares his personal experiences of returning home early from his mission and how he came to understand that each of us has a unique plan designed by God. He opens up about how he stayed close to the Savior and navigated the challenge of avoiding judgment from others. Mason also offers tips and advice on how we can show love and support to those who return home early from their missions.
2024-09-2343 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Zanna PerryIn this episode, Zanna shares how her experiences in both Washington state and Peru helped her rely on the Savior. She learned to place her faith and trust in His plan. Despite the challenges her family faced while she was on her mission, Zanna explains how she was able to navigate those difficult moments through the Atonement of Jesus Christ."
2024-09-1533 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Zanna PerryIn this episode, Zanna shares how her experiences in both Washington state and Peru helped her rely on the Savior. She learned to place her faith and trust in His plan. Despite the challenges her family faced while she was on her mission, Zanna explains how she was able to navigate those difficult moments through the Atonement of Jesus Christ."
2024-09-0833 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Mya HarbachIn this episode, we get to hear from Mya and the profound experiences that have shaped her. Growing up in Texas, she struggled with a sense of belonging within her ward , which led to gradually stepping away from her faith. It was during her college years in Hawaii that she created life long friends. Witnessing her friends leave on missions, she initially felt no desire to serve. However, despite those feelings, she knew God wanted her to serve. Mya's stories of her time in Puerto Rico is not only inspiring but also is an example of following promptings even wh...
2024-05-1753 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Whitney MurdockIn this episode, Whitney discusses how any inadequacies she may have felt before her mission went away when she knew of her love for God. Offering guidance and counsel to those facing similar struggles, she encourages listeners to align their will with God's. Whitney candidly shares her experiences navigating challenging moments during her mission and highlights how she remained committed to serving others despite those difficulties.
2024-05-1039 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Morgan RichardsIn this episode, Morgan dives into her mission experience, sharing personal stories about how she relied on and trusted in the Lord. She recounts overcoming challenges during high school, utilizing her gifts and talents to bless the lives of those in California, and emphasizes the importance of embracing a life of lasting discipleship.
2024-05-0355 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Avanlee LinfordIn this episode, we talk about the enriching experiences of serving a mission with Avanlee. She highlights the profound lessons learned and the cherished moments shared while on serving in North Carolina. Avanlee emphasizes the importance of embracing life at every stage, she touches on the essence of Southern hospitality and her deep affection for the individuals she encountered and taught. Additionally, she candidly discusses the temporary challenges encountered as a sister missionary. Ultimately, Avanlee encourages us to place our trust in God and His perfect timing.
2024-04-2648 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Maddy PittIn this episode, Maddy opens up about her life experiences, she goes into the challenges she faced during high school and how turning to God provided peace during those tough times. She reflects on the anticipation of receiving her mission call amidst COVID, expressing both frustration and relief upon finally receiving her assignment and the peace that followed. Throughout her life, from her freshman year at BYU Hawaii to her missions in Colorado and Italy and returning home, she shares profound insights about seeing others through the God's eyes. Maddy emphasizes the importance of embracing each day as a...
2024-04-1944 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Drew WynnIn this episode, Drew shares her stories of how, when things in life don't go as planned, you can pivot and, most importantly, turn to lean on God. She speaks of mission experiences and expresses gratitude for the counsel given by her mission leaders. They advised her not just to play the part of a disciple of Jesus Christ on her mission but to truly learn to become one. Drew opens up about personal struggles, including dealing with weight gain during her mission, and how she found solace in turning to Christ when she needed Him most. Her message...
2024-04-1251 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Brooklyn ThorpeIn this episode, Brooklyn shares her life experiences from growing up in Texas with a loving family and support system to serving a mission in Germany, during the same time as two of her sisters. However, her mission took a turn when, just three months into her mission, she got seriously sick, enduring four weeks of this debilitating sickness. Eventually, Brooklyn was to return home to seek medical help for a condition that continues to affect her life today. Throughout her life, Brooklyn emphasizes the significance of leaning on God and loved ones during challenging times. She sp...
2024-03-2958 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Gracie GallandIn this episode, Gracie shares more about her mission and her eagerness to teach the people of Germany about the joy and blessings that come from the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She discusses her decision to serve a mission and the feelings that come when trying to decide what to do with your life. Gracie also shares humbling experiences and stories about her mission and how they have shaped her testimony today.
2024-03-2250 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Preston PittIn this episode, Preston shares his experiences of his desire to serve a mission from a young age. From watching cousins serve to attending a semester of college before leaving on his own mission, and then finally receiving the call to serve in Hong Kong. He discusses the challenges he faced upon having to return home early due to Covid and being reassigned to Sacramento. Preston advises listeners to cultivate a passion for missionary work and to actively seek ways to strengthen your testimonies from the moment they return home.
2024-03-1635 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Bailee JohnsonIn this episode, Bailee opens up about her personal experiences growing up in Utah and her involvement in church films. She candidly shares the setbacks she faced before her mission, which ultimately shaped her into the person she is today. Her time serving as a missionary in Florida held a special place in her heart as she developed a profound love for the people there and deepened her relationship with the Savior.Bailee also discusses the unexpected mental health challenges she encountered during her mission and how she overcame them. She shares valuable insights with listeners about...
2024-03-0157 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Sarah CollinsSarah shares her experiences growing up, attending BYU, and serving a mission in Cambodia. She shares personal stories that have deepened her connection to Christ. Throughout the podcast, she offers advice and shares her motto on finding the good in every situation!
2024-02-2452 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Sarah CollinsSarah shares her experiences growing up, attending BYU, and serving a mission in Cambodia. She concludes by recounting personal stories that have helped her grow her connection to Christ. Throughout this episode, she offers advice and shares her motto on finding the good in every situation.
2024-02-2454 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Olivia DomanIn this episode, Olivia shares her experiences growing up in Davis County, attending school away from home, serving a mission in England, and getting married. She highlights the importance of following promptings and maintaining a positive attitude, emphasizing how these qualities can bring blessings into one's life.
2024-02-1645 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Claire PittsIn this episode, Claire discusses the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in every aspect of life, emphasizing how that can lead to happiness and rewards. She shares her experiences before her mission and during her time in Washington and Peru, highlighting how these experiences have shaped her into the person she is today. Claire emphasizes how overcoming hardships in life can bring you closer to Christ and foster a personal relationship with the Savior.
2024-02-1045 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Marissa BurtIn this episode, Marissa discusses how the decision to serve a mission may be different for everyone. She shares personal experiences about obstacles that could have stopped her from serving but emphasizes the importance of heeding promptings. Marissa addresses the challenges that you go through during a mission and highlights the joy you feel when you truly focus on the people you are there for. Although returning home from a mission might be hard for some, by continually reflecting on your commitment to remain close to Christ, you can discover peace and comfort in His plan for you.
2024-02-0252 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Ashlee AndersonIn this episode, we talk more about the essence of trusting in yourself and in God when making important decisions. We explore the profound beauty and joy living the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the happiness it can bring into our lives. Ashlee elaborates on how have a positive perspective has blessed her life and the lives of her loved ones.
2024-01-2645 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Nate RitchieIn this episode, Nate opens up and takes us through his decision to serve a mission, even after experiencing an exceptional first year playing football in college. He emphasizes the significance of staying committed to decisions and putting our faith and trust in the Lord, even when the outcomes are uncertain. Nate speaks more about the challenges he faced and discusses the factors that aided him in overcoming a particularly difficult situation. His example of discipline, hard work, and persistence is evident both on and off the field.
2024-01-1856 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Lanie WilkinsonIn this episode, Lanie shares more about her mission experience in Paris, France. From growing up on the East Coast to attending Utah State, opening her mission call in the Sacred Grove, returning home and marrying her husband, and raising her kids in San Francisco and Portland, Lanie makes a daily commitment to live the Gospel. She emphasizes the significance of pursuing what matters most to you and continually striving to strengthen your testimony.
2024-01-1443 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Tim PingreeIn this episode, Tim Pingree, affectionately known as President Pingree to missionaries who served in the Florida Fort Lauderdale Mission from 2020-2023, opens up about his journey. Tim wears many hats – husband, father, physician, church leader, and devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. Throughout the conversation, Tim reflects on pivotal decisions and failures that have shaped his current path.Tim dives into how his unique life experiences have equipped him to offer valuable insights. He discusses the importance of finding a life partner who is a "climber." Tim also emphasizes the significance of waking up with enthusiasm to se...
2024-01-1051 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Maude BrownIn this episode, Maude shares how her early-life decision to serve a mission remained an integral part of her identity. She reflects on the confidence gained in pursuing her passions, her mission experience in an unfamiliar place, and the man y experiences she had. Upon returning home, Maude discusses the process of incorporating the lessons learned during her mission into her career, home life, and marriage.
2023-12-2154 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Brian SantiagoIn this episode, we dive into the profound impact and influence that others have on our lives. Brian shares insights into his personal life of choosing to serve a mission, highlighting the pivotal roles played by his friends, family, leaders, and coaches in shaping this decision. We talk more about how being on the Lord's team is the winning team, emphasizing the notion that prioritizing the Lord in all aspects leads to favorable outcomes. Brian also offers valuable advice for parents dealing with missionaries facing challenges.
2023-12-1353 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Harvey LangiHarvey shares with us his challenging beginnings of growing up in Salt Lake City, choosing to step away from the church, finding his way back after a series of events, serving a two year mission, getting married, and playing in the NFL. We talk more about the importance of confidence in following promptings and prioritizing what truly matters.
2023-12-0655 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Sarah SunOn this episode, we learn more about Sarah Sun and explore the reasons behind her commitment to living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. From a young age, Sarah understood that she was a daughter of God, recognizing her divine worth. Through various experiences and opportunities, she has allowed her light to shine.Sarah shares her conversion story to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, her educational path of attending Cornell, serving a mission in California, transferring to BYU and now serving in her current role as Miss Utah. Throughout these diverse experiences, Sarah remains steadfast...
2023-12-0142 minRise & ThriveRise & Thrive; Time to BeRealWelcome to the 'Rise & Thrive,' podcast where health, wellness, and purpose collide. I'm Lucy Fotu, your host, and on this show, I dive into heart-to-heart conversations with return missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Join us as we explore their transformative stories, from the motivations behind their missions to the lessons learned and the ongoing drive that shapes their lives. Whether you're a future missionary a college student, or a stay at home mom, discover how to maintain health, find purpose, and stay motivated in this journey we call life. Get ready to be i...
2023-11-2607 min