Tom and Ali Durham are a dynamic creative duo blending storytelling, science fiction, family life, and faith. Tom is an Emmy-winning writer and director known for his cult-favorite sci-fi feature 95ers and his boundary-pushing work in TV, animation, and film. With a love for all things geek—from D&D to Star Trek—Tom brings humor and heart to every project he tackles through his production company, Martian Studios. He’s also an advocate for young storytellers, sharing his industry knowledge and love for the Oxford comma with the next generation of creators.Ali Durham, an actress, voiceover artist, chef, and mother of four, brings her own creative spark to the team. With a degree in Theater and Media Arts from BYU, Ali has worn many hats in the entertainment world—from performing and producing to writing and art direction. In their Latter-day Profile interview, Tom and Ali share how their shared love of faith, family, and film fuels their work. Together, they offer a refreshing perspective on balancing creativity with conviction—and finding joy in telling stories that uplift and inspire.

Shawn Stevens rose to fame in the 1980s with roles in hit television shows like Eight Is Enough, Days of Our Lives, and The Facts of Life. But behind the Hollywood lights was a deeper story—one of faith, sacrifice, and transformation. After discovering The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while filming in Utah, Shawn was baptized at age 19, a decision that cost him family support and slowed his acting career. Still, he held to his beliefs, turning down roles that didn’t align with his values and eventually finding new purpose off-screen.In his Latter-day Profile interview, Shawn reflects on his remarkable journey—from early stardom to a life grounded in discipleship. He shares how faith guided his choices through career highs and lows, and how stepping away from the spotlight helped him build a strong family foundation. After nearly 30 years behind the scenes, he returned to acting in the inspiring film The Cokeville Miracle. Shawn’s story is a powerful testament to the courage it takes to follow Christ in any industry—and the peace that comes when you do.

John Fossum is a devoted religious educator and author who has spent his life helping others build a firm foundation in Jesus Christ. Growing up in Georgia, John experienced for himself the challenges of life and the peace that comes from anchoring one’s faith in the Savior. After serving a mission in the Philippines, he studied English in college—where he met his wife Sarah in a poetry class. Together, they’ve raised five children and now enjoy life as grandparents.In his Latter-day Profile interview, John shares the inspiration behind his book Spiritual Foundations, a guide to developing deep, lasting faith in a world full of uncertainty. With warmth, humility, and personal insight, John testifies of God’s grace and the joy of living a Christ-centered life. His message is one of hope, reminding viewers that with the Lord as our foundation, all things will eventually work out for our good

Dr. B.J. Allen is a standout voice in both the business and spiritual spheres. As a Marketing Professor at BYU’s Marriott School of Business, he teaches professional selling and leads the BYU Sales Society. His widely used sales textbooks and training simulations are shaping the next generation of sales professionals at over 100 universities worldwide. Through his engaging workshops and consulting work, he helps organizations embrace cutting-edge strategies and leave energized to improve their sales approach.In his Latter-day Profile interview, B.J. opens up about his personal faith journey and the message behind his book The Compensating Power of Christ. Drawing on personal experience and gospel insight, he explores how the Savior’s Atonement can bring healing, justice, and hope in the face of life’s unfairness. Whether in the classroom or on the page, B.J. shares how Christ empowers us to overcome life’s challenges—one principle at a time.

Emily Peterson is the CEO and co-founder of Saranoni Luxury Blankets, a company born out of love and necessity. When her daughter needed surgery for a congenital ear condition, Emily and her husband Nathan began making gift baskets to raise funds. What started as a small family project quickly grew into a thriving business—thanks to the overwhelming popularity of their baby blankets. As parents raising three young children, the couple poured their hearts into creating products that bring comfort and connection.

In her Latter-day Profile interview, Emily shares how Saranoni became more than a business—it became a mission. After Nathan’s passing from brain cancer in 2022, Emily found strength in honoring his legacy of compassion and service. Through their global initiative, Saranoni Cares, the company has brought warmth to families in need around the world. Emily’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and the power of creating comfort through both product and service.

Elder Kim B. Clark has led a distinguished life of service in both education and the gospel. A Harvard-educated economist and former dean of Harvard Business School, he brought his leadership and vision to Brigham Young University–Idaho, where he served as president for a decade. Later called as a General Authority Seventy, he also served as Church Commissioner of Education, helping guide learning across the Church’s educational institutions. His profound commitment to faith and learning has shaped the lives of thousands around the world.

In his Latter-day Profile interview, Elder Clark reflects on the Lord’s hand in his life—from his academic career to his spiritual callings. With humility and insight, he shares how true discipleship, education, and leadership can align when grounded in faith. His story is one of lifelong dedication to both the Church and the growth of individuals, families, and institutions through Christ-centered learning.

Charlene Farr’s life is a powerful story of resilience, faith, and transformation. Raised in a large family on a Texas farm and later married to an Air Force serviceman, Charlene’s journey took her around the world. But after facing personal heartache and betrayal, she found herself at a spiritual crossroads—until two missionaries arrived with a message of hope that changed everything. Their compassion and teachings helped her find a renewed sense of purpose, leading her to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1991 and embark on a life of devoted service, particularly with children and in the Relief Society.

Now 87, Charlene continues to inspire as a storyteller, teacher, and family historian. From teaching heritage classes and preserving family gravesites to co-writing a family cookbook and nearly finishing a children’s book about her own childhood, Charlene is passionate about connecting generations through faith and memory. Her Latter-day Profile interview shines a light on the strength that comes from turning trials into testimony—and honoring the past while building a legacy of faith for the future.

Dr. Jenet Jacob Erickson brings a powerful voice to the conversation on faith, family, and the vital role of motherhood. As an Associate Professor of Religious Education at BYU, she has spent years researching maternal and child well-being, with her work gaining national attention in outlets such as The New York Times and The Today Show. With over 20 published articles and book chapters, and experience advising policymakers, Dr. Erickson is a leading expert on how family dynamics shape individuals and society.

In her Latter-day Profile interview, Dr. Erickson reflects on both the science and the spiritual depth behind strong families. A dedicated wife and mother of two, she shares how faith and research intersect in her life, and why she believes nurturing the next generation is one of the most meaningful callings. Her story offers both wisdom and inspiration for anyone seeking to understand the divine design of the family.

Shane Smeed, a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was serving as the president of Park University in Missouri and as the stake president of the Platte City Missouri Stake at the time of this interview. In February, Smeed accepted the position of President of Utah Tech University in Saint George, Utah.At Park University Smeed led initiatives focused on student success, institutional excellence and workforce development. His leadership accomplishments include launching a comprehensive fundraising campaign and creating strategic business partnerships to enhance student outcomes in the global market.Born in Provo, Utah, and raised in various states, he has a deep-rooted passion for education, inspired by his father's career. Balancing his professional and ecclesiastical responsibilities, Smeed is supported by his wife, Angela, and their three children. He is committed to fostering leadership, service, and faith in both his academic and church communities.

Cindy McDavitt is a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and an active participant in the Interfaith Council, promoting understanding among diverse faiths. Married with six adult children, 21 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren, family is her highest priority. Professionally, Cindy has worn many hats, from full-time mother and business owner to computer programmer and project manager, retiring from Cerner in 2017. She has served in various volunteer roles within her faith and currently acts as the Communication Director for the Church in greater Kansas City and surrounding areas. Cindy is passionate about defending the right to worship freely and believes in building greater understanding and love through service.

Jonathan Cutler is a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. He is the owner and former Director of Acquisitions at Cutler Enterprises and currently serves as the COO of The Storage Acquisition Group, which he joined in 2016. Jonathan's extensive background includes roles such as Director of Acquisition, Purchasing, and Estimating for KB Home.

Lauren Felker is a junior at Lee Summit High School in Missouri. Lauren is an active member of her Young Women's group and an aspiring broadcast journalist or doctor.

Pete Grigsby has been a dedicated on-air TV meteorologist since 1990, spending the last 23 years with KMBC in Kansas City, MO. His career also includes stints in Norfolk, VA; Evansville, IN; and Bowling Green, KY.

In 2008, Pete transitioned to an administrative role with the Blue Springs School District to better balance family life, where he oversees the district's TV and radio stations and teaches meteorology and broadcasting.

A former all-state high school basketball player, Pete chose to focus on his studies in Broadcast/Journalism and Meteorology over college basketball offers.

He enjoys running, playing piano, and serving in his church, while cherishing time with his wife Michelle and their two children, Nyle and Pete IV.

Lexi Eaton Rydalch is a former professional athlete drafted by the WNBA's Seattle Storm in 2016. As a standout student-athlete for BYU's women's basketball and track teams, she became the program's second all-time leading scorer and set scoring records in the West Coast Conference. Lexi has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in business. She loves sports psychology and wants to mentor young girls. She plans to inspire them through different platforms. Beyond sports, she enjoys music and plays the piano, organ, and violin. Her dedication to athletics and personal growth makes her a role model for aspiring athletes.

Jeremiah J. Morgan serves as the Deputy Attorney General for the State of Missouri, overseeing the civil practice of the Missouri Attorney General's Office. With a distinguished legal career, he has clerked for the US Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and practiced law with Bryan Cave LLC. Morgan also served as Deputy Solicitor General and General Counsel to the Supreme Court of Missouri. In addition to his legal work, he was called as an Area Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2020, with ecclesiastical responsibilities across four states. A graduate of the University of Central Missouri and Brigham Young University, Morgan's journey reflects a commitment to both his profession and faith.

Chelsy Walker is a dedicated artist and community leader with a passion for creating and advancing the arts. With a career spanning over 20 years, her large outdoor sculptures are featured in various locations, including Park City, UT, and Overland Park, KS. A graduate of Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture, Chelsy works with materials like aluminum, bronze, and steel, focusing on themes of nature and family. She also has a permanent oil painting display in Olathe City Hall. Residing in the Kansas City Metro area with her family, Chelsy actively volunteers in her community and has chaired the Olathe Public Art Committee since 2019. She believes in the power of art to connect and celebrate the human family.

Porter Ellett, a native of Loa, Utah, has overcome significant challenges to achieve his dream of working in the NFL. After a childhood accident left him with severe nerve damage and the eventual amputation of his right arm, Ellett excelled in sports, earning accolades in high school and later serving a mission for the LDS Church. He attended BYU, where he worked as an equipment manager for the baseball team and discovered a passion for football. After earning a master's degree in sports management from Baylor, Ellett joined the Kansas City Chiefs, where he now serves as an assistant running backs coach to Head Coach Andy Reid

Serge and Isabelle Gaston are remarkable figures in their Paris, France, community. A seasoned finance professional, Serge serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for a prominent international group, overseeing finance-related activities, including bookkeeping, economic strategies, mergers, and acquisitions. His extensive career has taken him across the globe, offering him unique insights into various cultures and business environments. Serge's dedication to his profession is matched by his commitment to his faith; he has served in numerous church leadership roles, including as a stake president, where his vision for the church in France has been greatly influenced by his mission experiences in Arizona, USA. He currently serves as stake patriarch. Isabelle Gaston is celebrated for her literary talents, devotion to her family, and faith. Baptized at 10, Isabelle's spiritual journey has been deeply influenced by her family's embrace of the church. She has channeled her gift for writing into her role with the Liahona, where she supervises local content, capturing and sharing the profound experiences of church members. Isabelle is also a dedicated piano teacher, balancing her time between her professional responsibilities, family, and church service. Together, Serge and Isabelle embody a life of service, faith, and dedication. They have raised their children with the same values they cherish, finding joy and fulfillment in their roles as parents and grandparents. Their story is a testament to their partnership's strength and unwavering commitment to their community and faith.

Luana Freitas, originally from Macaé, Brazil, has a dynamic and culturally rich background. Growing up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with her family, she shares a unique bond with her two 16-year-old adopted sisters. Luana pursued a degree in law in Brazil and soon after moved to France to participate in an au pair program, which allowed her to travel and immerse herself in French culture. Fluent in five languages—Portuguese, English, French, Spanish, and Japanese—Luana’s linguistic talents are a testament to her dedication to learning and cultural exchange. Her educational journey has been equally impressive. After starting BYU Pathway two years ago, Luana decided to continue her studies in Business online. Feeling a divine prompting, she has now chosen to further her education on campus at Ensign College. Luana’s passion for serving others was evident during her mission in Tokyo South, Japan, and has continued through her roles as a Young Women’s counselor and Sunday School Teacher. She is dedicated to participating in missionary lessons with friends and attending the temple whenever possible, striving to be a positive example and helping others feel God's love.

Jean-Claude Vanaquer is a dedicated and dynamic individual, currently serving as the Institute Director for the Paris Institute. Born in the historic Champagne region of France, Jean-Claude's early life was marked by significant moves, including a pivotal migration to Australia in 1971. In Australia, his family encountered the missionaries, leading to their conversion to the gospel, a change that profoundly shaped Jean-Claude's spiritual journey. His formative years included a memorable engagement with seminary studies and an eventual mission call to the Paris Toulouse mission, where he discovered the deeper dimensions of the gospel and its transformative power. Jean-Claude's professional journey is equally compelling. After completing his military service, he ventured into the business world, eventually rising to the position of regional director for a laminate company and later working in kitchen sales. His career took a significant turn when he was encouraged to apply for a position with the Church as a Seminary and Institute coordinator. Jean-Claude has played a crucial role in developing and supporting Institute programs, starting in Lyon and later serving in various locations. Jean-Claude has taken on the additional role of Director of the French Seminary Institute area, further expanding his influence and responsibilities. His commitment to teaching and mentoring young adults has been a cornerstone of his work, reflecting his dedication to fostering spiritual growth and resilience among the youth.