Best SLCC Institute of Religion Podcasts (2025)

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Ep 156 S6 Ben Hemming "Seek Him with All Your Heart" L. Todd Budge " 30:55

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5d ago30:55

30:55

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge (Taylorsville Institute) and Brother Ben Hemming (Jordan Institute) reflect on Bishop L. Todd Budge’s October 2024 General Conference talk, Seek Him with All Your Heart. They highlight the power of slowing down, savoring spiritual moments, and recognizing God’s desire to reveal His will to us…

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Ep 155 S6 Aleyah Lubbers "Go and Do Likewise" James E. Evanson 28:49

6d ago28:49

28:49

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge, Taylorsville Institute teacher, and SLCC student Aleyah Lubbers reflect on Elder James E. Evanson’s General Conference talk, “Go and Do Likewise,” emphasizing the divine power and legitimacy of service missions. They explore how Christlike service—especially through service missionaries—is a…

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Ep 154 S6 Blake Dalton "Do Your Part With All Your Heart" Dieter F. Uchtdorf 32:51

13d ago32:51

32:51

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Taylorsville Institute teachers Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Blake Dalton unpack Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s October 2025 General Conference talk, “Do Your Part With All Your Heart.” They reflect on Elder Uchtdorf’s message that discipleship requires consistent self-discipline, mindful prayer, and intentional action. …

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Ep 153 S6 Samuel Young "Know Who You Really Are" Brik V. Eyre 32:28

13d ago32:28

32:28

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge, Taylorsville Institute teacher, and SLCC student Sam Young reflect on Elder Brik V. Eyre’s General Conference talk, “Know Who You Really Are.” They explore how embracing our divine identity leads to mindful prayer, intentional action, and deeper discipleship. Through personal insights and hi…

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Ep 152 S6 Conference Review with the Sacketts Part 2 31:39

20d ago31:39

31:39

In part two of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge returns with his wife Shauni and friends Amy and Alan Sackett to reflect on the Saturday evening and Sunday sessions of the October 2025 General Conference. The group shares heartfelt impressions of Elder Patrick Kearon’s powerful message on “new beginnings” through Christ’s infinite mercy, and S…

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Ep 151 S6 Conference Review with the Sacketts Part 1 32:15

20d ago32:15

32:15

In this, part one of a two part episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge is joined by his wife Shauni and friends Amy and Alan Sackett for a heartfelt discussion on the October 2025 General Conference. Together, they reflect on the first two sessions, highlighting messages of spiritual anchoring, family-centered faith, and personal disciple…

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Ep 149 S6 Zaylun Fenn "Thou Art the Christ" Amy A. Wright 30:51

27d ago30:51

30:51

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Zaylun Fenn dive into Sister Amy A. Wright’s April 2025 General Conference talk, “Thou Art the Christ.” They explore how belief in Jesus Christ, belonging to His Church, and striving to become like Him form the foundation of lifelong discipleship. Zaylun shares how faith shapes his identity both on a…

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Ep 150 S6 Dr. Kirk Burbidge - Letting God Prevail - A tribute to Pres Russell M. Nelson 32:25

27d ago32:25

32:25

In this tribute episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge honors the prophetic legacy of President Russell M. Nelson by reviewing four transformative General Conference talks: “Joy and Spiritual Survival” (Oct 2016, link), “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives” (Apr 2018, link), “Let God Prevail” (Oct 2020, link), “Christ Is R…

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Ep 147 S6 Jesse Roberts "The Love of God" Benjamin M.Z. Tai 30:37

1M ago30:37

30:37

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge a teacher at the Taytorsville Institue of Religions and current SLCC student, Jesse Roberts,reflect on Elder Benjamin M.Z. Tai’s General Conference talk, “The Love of God.” They explore how divine love is both a gift and a “burden of grace” or a sacred invitation to carry one another through …

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Ep 148 S6 Sarah Nelson "The Plan of Mercy" James R. Rasband 28:41

1M ago28:41

28:41

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and SLCC student Sarah Nelson discuss Elder James R. Rasband’s talk “The Plan of Mercy,” from the April 2025 General Confernece. They explore how God’s justice and mercy work together to heal, empower, and guide us through the Savior’s redeeming love. They reflect on how mercy isn’t just a pr…

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Ep 146 S6 Cameron Lee & Megan Rowan "Faith: A Bond of Trust and Loyalty" Sandino Román 31:11

1M ago31:11

31:11

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge welcomes Salt Lake Community College students Megan Rowan and Cameron Lee to explore the theme of trusting in the Lord through the lens of By Elder Sandino Roman’s April 2025 General Conference talk, "Faith: A Bond of Trust and Loyalty". Together, they reflect on how divine trust shapes their decisions a…

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Ep 145 S6 Kolby Hales "And We Talk of Christ" Gary E. Stevenson 30:16

1M ago30:16

30:16

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Kolby Hales explore Elder Gary E. Stevenson’s April 2025 General Conference talk, “And We Talk of Christ,” focusing on how Christ-centered living can bring healing in the wake of recent violence. They reflect on Elder Stevenson’s message of hope, emphasizing the power of speaking of Chris…

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Ep 144 S6 Matt Merrill "Charity - A Sign of True Discipleship" Michael B. Strong 33:23

2M ago33:23

33:23

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge is joined by Dr. Matt Merrill to discuss Elder Michael B. Strong’s April 2025 talk, “Charity: A Sign of True Discipleship.” Together, they explore how charity is more than kindness—it's the essence of becoming a deliberate disciple of Jesus Christ. The conversation highlights how intentional …

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Ep 143 S6 Chris Nordfelt "Eternity's Greatest Gifts" Gerrit W. Gong 32:59

2M ago32:59

32:59

In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge welcomes guest Chris Nordfelt to explore Elder Gerrit W. Gong’s powerful April 2025 General Conference address, “Eternity’s Greatest Gifts.” Together, they reflect on the eternal blessings of identity, covenant belonging, and divine potential. The conversation also dives into the reality of u…

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Ep 141 S6 Blake Dalton "By This All Will Know That You Are My Disciples" Dieter F. Uchtdorf 31:47

2M ago31:47

31:47

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Taylorsville Institute of Religion teacher Blake Dalton dive deep into Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s April 2025 General Conference talk, “By This All Will Know That You Are My Disciples.” Together, they explore what it truly means to follow Christ in today’s world, especially as young Latter-day Saints …

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Ep 142 S6 David Greenman "Our Heavenly Guidance System" Sergio R. Vargas 33:28

2M ago33:28

33:28

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Bishop David Greenman dive into Elder Sergio R. Vargas’s talk, Our Heavenly Guidance System. They explore how God lovingly redirects us like a spiritual GPS. With stories from his life and and insights from the challenges he has face, Bishop Greenman highlights how listening to and sometimes not listening to p…

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Ep 140 S6 Matt Zito "Reverence for Sacred Things" Ulisses Soares 32:49

2M ago32:49

32:49

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Institute Teacher Matt Zito unpack Elder Ulisses Soares’ April 2025 message, “Reverence for Sacred Things.” Together, they explore how cultivating reverence deepens our connection to God, transforms our worship, and invites holiness into everyday life. It’s a thoughtful conversation on standing with awe before…

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Ep139 S6 Gary Nelson "Participate To Prepare for Christ’s Return" Steven D. Shumway 31:07

2M ago31:07

31:07

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Gary Nelson, Taylorsville Institute Director, reflect on the inspiring message from Steven D. Shumway titled “Participate to Prepare for Christ’s Return.” Together, they discuss how active participation in gospel living strengthens our spiritual readiness for the Savior’s Second Coming. Through thoughtful insi…

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Ep138 S6 Shaylie Huntington "Draw Near Unto Me" Henry B. Eyring 31:00

2M ago31:00

31:00

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Shaylie Huntington sit down to reflect on President Henry B. Eyring’s tender General Conference message, Draw Near Unto Me. Together, they explore how simple acts like prayer, scripture study, and cheerful service, can deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ, especially during life’s most uncertain seasons. …

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Ep137 S6 Evan Egan "True to the Faith That Our Parents Have Cherished" Elder Hans T. Boom 32:33

2M ago32:33

32:33

In this, the first episode of season 6, Dr. Kirk Burbidge of the Taylorsville Institute and Evan Egan, a recently returned missionary, unpack Elder Hans T. Boom’s inspiring General Conference talk, True to the Faith That Our Parents Have Cherished. Kirk and Evan explore how young adults today can honor past generations by living with purpose and fa…

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Ep136 S5: Dr. Kirk Burbidge "Compensating Blessings" Bishop Gérald Caussé 28:00

3M ago28:00

28:00

Dr. Kirk Burbidge of the Taylorsville Institute of Religion goes solo to end season 5 and shares a tender reflection on Bishop Gérald Caussé’s April 2025 General Conference talk, “Compensating Blessings.” As he discusses the Savior’s power to meet us in our unmet needs, he opens up about losing his father young and how God has filled that void thro…

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Ep135 S5: Daryl Olschewski "Beware the Second Temptation" Scott D. Whiting 31:22

3M ago31:22

31:22

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Brother Daryl Olschewski of Hunter High Seminary unpack Elder Scott D. Whiting’s April 2025 General Conference talk, “Beware the Second Temptation.” They explore how the urge to spiritually “hide” after making mistakes can deepen shame and hinder healing. Drawing on scriptural insights Brother Olschewski's per…

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Ep134 S5: Kirk & Shauni Burbidge "Right Before Our Eyes" Ronald A. Rasband 27:38

3M ago27:38

27:38

In this episode, Dr. Kirk and Shauni Burbidge reflect on Elder Ronald A. Rasband’s April 2025 General Conference address, "Right Before our Eyes," sharing their joy in seeing their children worship in the temple. Through tender stories and spiritual insights, they highlight how temple worship deepens family bonds, invites heaven’s perspective, and …

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Ep133 S5: Stephanie Vandorfy "Harden Not Your Heart" Christopher H. Kim 31:52

4M ago31:52

31:52

In this thoughtful and refreshingly honest episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge of the Taylorsville Institute of Religion sits down with institute student and vibrant YSA, Stephanie Vandorfy, to explore the powerful General Conference message “Harden Not Your Heart” by Elder Christopher H. Kim from the April, 2025 General Conference. You can find the origina…

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Ep131 S5: Maleek Kennedy "Joy Through Covenant Discipleship" John A. McCune 30:01

4M ago30:01

30:01

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Maleek Kennedy dive into missions, the power of institute, and the message behind Elder John A. McCune’s talk, "Joy Through Covenant Discipleship." They discuss how making and keeping sacred covenants strengthens our relationship with God, deepens our joy, and broadens our eternal perspective. As we embrace co…

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Ep132 S5: Ryan Hougaard "The Times of Restitution of All Things" Elder David A. Bednar 29:03

4M ago29:03

29:03

Dr. Kirk Burbidge and LDSSA Council member Ryan Hougaard discuss Elder David A. Bednar’s powerful message, “The Times of Restitution of All Things”. They explore how the Restoration is an ongoing miracle that empowers covenant disciples to move God’s work forward today. With insights on priesthood keys, the Book of Mormon, and our role in this disp…

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Ep129 S5: Bailey Mortensen "Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior" Dale G. Renlund 30:55

4M ago30:55

30:55

In this episode, LDSSA President Bailey Mortensen sits down with Dr. Kirk Burbidge for a heartfelt conversation on preparing for the Second Coming—not with fear, but with faith and confidence. She reflects on how the gospel provides deep and lasting peace, even for a young single adult navigating the uncertainties of life while striving to honor he…

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Ep130 S5: Jessie Barrus "Right Before Our Eyes" Ronald A. Rasband 28:36

4M ago28:36

28:36

In this uplifting episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge welcomes Jessie Barrus, SLCC student and LDSSA student council member, to discuss the hope and understanding that come as we grow together, both as individuals and as a Church. Drawing on Elder Ronald A. Rasband’s April 2025 General Conference talk, “Right Before Our Eyes,” they explore how we can better…

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Ep127 S5: Ethan Baggley "Satan—The Great Deceiver" Marion G. Romney 29:51

4M ago29:51

29:51

Ethan Baggley joins Dr. Kirk Burbidge to explore the cunning tactics of the adversary, drawing insights from Elder Marion G. Romney’s 1971 talk, “Satan—The Great Deceiver.” Together, they unpack the contrast between inward-facing lives marked by pride and self-focus, and outward-facing discipleship rooted in humility and service. They highlight the…

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Ep128 S5: Kadin Pulley "My Love for the Savior Is My 'Why"" Ricardo P. Giménez 28:40

4M ago28:40

28:40

At the Taylorsville Institute, Brother Kadin Pully joins Dr. Kirk Burbidge for a thoughtful discussion on the transformative power of making the Savior our "why." Together, they explore the inspired counsel shared in Elder Ricardo P. Giménez’s April 2025 general conference address, “My Love for the Savior Is My 'Why.'” Their conversation centers on…

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Ep126 S5: Matt Merrill "Draw Near Unto Me" President Henry B. Eyring 31:39

5M ago31:39

31:39

Dr. Matt Merrill joins Dr. Kirk Burbidge in an enriching discussion about what it truly means to draw near unto the Savior and recognize His guiding hand in our daily lives. Together, they delve into the principles of discipleship, exploring how intentional faith and personal revelation can deepen our relationship with Christ. Their conversation is…

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Ep125 S5: Blake Dalton "As a Little Child" Jeffrey R. Holland 32:06

5M ago32:06

32:06

Brother Blake Dalton, the newest addition to the Taylorsville Institute faculty, joins Dr. Kirk Burbidge for a thoughtful discussion on the childlike joy that should accompany our discipleship in Christ. Together, they explored the profound insights shared in President Jeffrey R. Holland’s April 2025 general conference address, As a Little Child, r…

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Ep124 S5: Breanna Simms "Divine Helps for Mortality" Dallin H. Oaks 30:43

5M ago30:43

30:43

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Taylorsville Institute student Breanna Simms explore the divine help available in life's challenges and how our Heavenly Father often places solutions within the very trials we face. Their discussion centers on President Dallin H. Oaks' April 2025 general conference talk, Divine Helps for Mortality, uncovering…

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Ep123 S5: Jamie Gandy "The Atonement of Jesus Christ Provides the Ultimate Rescue" Quentin L. Cook 29:25

5M ago29:25

29:25

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Jamie Gandy explore the profound impact of Pioneer Trek, sharing inspiring examples of faith and resilience. They discuss how the Savior stands as the ultimate rescuer, drawing from insights in Elder Quentin L. Cook's April 2025 address, The Atonement of Jesus Christ Provides the Ultimate Rescue. You can find …

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Ep122 S5: Cody Hancuff “Return unto Me...That I May Heal You” Mark S. Palmer 30:25

5M ago30:25

30:25

In this episode, Cody Hancuff, principal of Kearns High Seminary, joins Dr. Kirk Burbidge for a meaningful discussion on strengthening our connection with Heavenly Father. They explore how fostering that relationship brings peace and spiritual growth, drawing insights from Elder Mark S. Palmer’s April 2025 general conference address, Return unto Me…

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Ep121 S5: Cameron & Brayden Lee "Divine Authority, Sublime Young Men" Steven J. Lund 29:29

5M ago29:29

29:29

Brothers Brayden and Cameron Lee join Dr. Kirk Burbidge in the studio for a thoughtful discussion on the significance of holding the priesthood, both in their personal lives and for the rising generation. Drawing inspiration from Young Men General President Steven J. Lund’s April 2025 general conference address, Divine Authority, Sublime Young Men,…

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Ep120 S5: Aidan Davis "Cherishing Life" Neil L. Anderson 30:29

5M ago30:29

30:29

In this episode, Aidan Davis, LDSSA Council member and student, joins Dr. Kirk Burbidge to explore Elder Neil L. Andersen's General Conference address, Cherishing Life (April 2025). They discuss the power of perspective and how understanding the Lord’s view of each of us can shape our faith and daily lives. See the original address here: https://ww…

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Ep119 S5: Denise McCubbins "Your Repentance Doesn’t Burden Jesus Christ…" Tamara W. Runia 28:59

5M ago28:59

28:59

In this episode, Dr. Kirk Burbidge is joined by Denise McCubbins to explore the profound parable of the quilt and its connection to the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Together, they discuss how embracing the Savior's gift is an expression of gratitude rather than a burden. Their conversation is inspired by Sister Tamara W. Runia's powerful April 2025 G…

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Ep118 S5: Jacob Cox "Worship" D. Todd Christofferson 29:59

6M ago29:59

29:59

Jacob Cox is excited to join Dr. Kirk Burbidge for a heartfelt discussion about the incredible ways and the power that comes from focused worship. They dive into Elder D. Todd Christofferson's insightful address, "Worship" from the April 2025 General Conference, exploring its wonderful teachings together. See the original address here: https://www.…

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Ep117 S5: Kirstin Butler "Cherishing Life" Neil L. Anderson 27:50

6M ago27:50

27:50

Welcome to Season 5! (Summer Semester 2025 at SLCC). In this episode, Kirstin Butler returns to explore a thought-provoking topic from Elder Neil L. Anderson's address, "Cherishing Life" from the April 2025 General Conference. Together with Dr. Kirk Burbidge, she delves into perceptions, values, and shares her own heartfelt experiences. See the ori…

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BONUS Episode: Olivia Burbidge "Safely Gathered Home" Elder Quintin L. Cook 34:58

6M ago34:58

34:58

In this bonus episode, recently returned missionary Olivia Burbidge spends time with her dad discussing the conference talk that inspired her to serve a mission. They talk about missionary work, her service in the England London Mission, and how the Book of Mormon is truly the tool for gathering Israel. Central to the discussion is Elder Quintin L.…

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Ep115 S4: Naomi Evans "Receive His Gift" Patrick Kearon 27:52

6M ago27:52

27:52

This episode highlights insights from Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Taylorsville Institute student Naomi Evans. Together, we explore the beautiful journey of seeing ourselves through God's eyes and embracing the amazing gift of our divine parentage. We also delve into Elder Patrick Kearon's inspiring address from the April 2025 General Conference. See the …

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Ep116 S4: Gary Nelson "Spiritually Whole in Him" Camille N. Johnson 33:21

6M ago33:21

33:21

In this, the final episode of the semester and of season 4, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Gary Nelson, the Director of the Taylorsville Institute, share gospel insights about "Spiritually Whole Him." We explore the concepts of healing and placing trust in the Lord as essential aspects of wholeness. Our conversation is informed by President Camile N. Johnso…

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Ep113 S4: Lilly, Ella, and Andrew - April 2025 Conference Reactions and Review 29:37

7M ago29:37

29:37

Three spirited seniors from Cyprus High School Seminary- Lilly Zito, Andrew Egan, and Ella Burbidge- come together with Dr. Kirk Burbidge for a delightful discussion about the April 2025 General Conference. They share their favorite highlights and insights from this recent spiritual feast, making it a vibrant conversation worth tuning into! See the…

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Ep114 S4: Kolby Hales "Confidence in the Presence of God" Russell M. Nelson 31:59

7M ago31:59

31:59

This episode features Dr. Kirk Burbidge and "Master" Kolby Hales as they dive into the first review of the April 2025 General Conference. Naturally, they're focusing on President Nelson's inspiring address, "Confidence in the Presence of God." Together, they explore how embracing gospel principles, maintaining consistent church attendance, and keep…

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Ep112 S4: Alan & Amy Sackett Part 2 - April 2025 Conference Reactions and Review 27:32

7M ago27:32

27:32

In this episode, the Sacketts and the Burbidges gather around the dinner table to warmly exchange their initial thoughts and reactions to a delightful spiritual feast from April 2025: General Conference. This is the second part of a two-part series episode, filled with insights and connections! See the entire conference here: https://www.churchofje…

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Ep111 S4: Alan & Amy Sackett Part 1 - April 2025 Conference Reactions and Review 27:55

7M ago27:55

27:55

In this episode, the Sacketts and the Burbidges gather around the dinner table to warmly exchange their initial thoughts and reactions to a delightful spiritual feast from April 2025: General Conference. This is the first part of a two-part series episode, filled with insights and connections! See the entire conference here: https://www.churchofjes…

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Ep110 S4: Taylorsville Institute Class's Final Thoughts on Oct 2024 General Conference 30:22

7M ago30:22

30:22

In this episode, Brother Kirk Burbidge leads an institute class to discover what they consider their most memorable moments from the October 2024 General Conference. Review the entire conference here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2024/10?lang=eng _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitut…

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Ep109 S4: Jacob Cox "Following Christ" Dallin H. Oaks 29:41

7M ago29:41

29:41

In this episode, we get to enjoy a conversation between Jacob Cox, an SLCC student, and Kirk Burbidge, where they share their insights on the importance of embracing discipleship principles in our daily lives. They dive into President Dallin H. Oaks's inspiring address from the October 2024 General Conference, titled "Following Christ." Find the ta…

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Ep108 S4: Jeff Kendall "Overcome the World and Find Rest" Russell M. Nelson 29:46

7M ago29:46

29:46

Join Jeff Kendall and Kirk Burbidge in this special episode as they share a thoughtful review of President Russell M. Nelson's inspiring October 2022 general conference address, "Overcome the World and Find Rest." The discussion beautifully explores themes of loss, grief, and perfectionism, guiding us to discover the incredible strength of God in o…

SLCC Institute Of Religion Podcasts