Hope Helps: Navigating Everyday Life

Faith. Hardship. Loneliness.  On this episode of Hope Helps, Charly Burridge-Jones introduces three guests who are on three separate faith journeys. Cristina and Stephen, both members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Jaspreet—a Sikh activist—share the ups and downs of finding, following, rediscovering, and recommitting to their faith. Together the guests explore the full scope of faith journeys—including times when faith has empowered them as well as moments it needed rekindling. Their stories demonstrate how continuing to choose faith in times of weakness brings miracles. “I’m addicted to my faith.” Jaspreet’s infectious enthusiasm and passion for defending all faiths has inspired many. However, his own faith journey was born years ago, in the midst of a period of depression that almost cost him his life. Unable to find help while struggling with self-harming thoughts, Jaspreet found himself praying on the steps of The Golden Temple—Sikhism’s most sacred religious site. During his lowest of lows, he felt a spark of hope—which then ignited everything. Cristina and Stephen overcame significant opposition from their families to pursue their own faith—a decision which brought healing and happiness to their lives. However, unexpected events in both of their lives—including a difficult divorce and a bewildering heart defect—led them to low points in their journeys. Tune in to this episode of Hope Helps to learn how unanticipated trials and the decision to rekindle faith brought hope, healing, and happiness to their lives.  If you are seriously struggling or thinking of self-harming, please reach out to https://www.samaritans.org or call 116 123 for help and support.

Dancing. Singing. Midnight meals. Tropical Christmas mornings, holiday road trips, Father Christmas and… a barbecue? On this special festive episode of Hope Helps, host Charly Burridge-Jones shares magical Christmas traditions of UK residents from around the world. Featured guests Amy and Michael Morris recount the remarkable story of how their family grew from zero to seven children overnight—just in time for Christmas!   Although it’s said to be the most wonderful time of the year, Amy and Michael understand many may be spending the Christmas season in less than ideal circumstances. Their experience fostering 21 children brought them face to face with real trauma—providing a unique perspective on how to feel the Christmas spirit no matter the situation. Michael, remembering lonelier holiday times, shares that whether we find ourselves in an ideal situation this year or not, “each of us has the opportunity to extend [kindness] to someone else… it’s a time of year where we can give something of ourselves and feel some joy through what we’re able to offer others.” If you’re not feeling the Christmas spirit yet, it’s not too late. Come and hear what the Morris children are looking forward to this Christmas!

“We don’t live in isolated communities,” says civil service worker Mamataj Begum. We meet different people all around us, whether at work, school, sporting events, or simply walking down the street. As society becomes increasingly divided, collaboration with others becomes increasingly valuable. Ben Shapiro is a six-year employee of the interfaith charity, the Faith and Belief Forum. He describes the power people have to dispel stereotypes and solve societal problems when they work together and understand each other. The good news? Exciting opportunities for inter-community engagement are all around us. Interfaith charities exist to connect people with different backgrounds who share common goals. Ben and Mamataj originally became involved through university programs. Since then, they have participated in interfaith book clubs, theatre productions, zoom conferences, dinner parties, festival days, and fitness challenges. “If you like doing something,” notes Mamataj, “inevitably there’ll be an [interfaith] group on the internet [which also does] that thing.” In the end, what matters most may not be the activity we engage in, but the attitude we bring. Inter-community environments create a “safe space” where people can be themselves without fear of being judged. When we approach these spaces with curiosity instead of assumptions, we are better prepared to learn from each other. “Take the first step,” Ben urges. “It’s so much better than you can imagine… [Kind, welcoming] people are waiting for you.”     

For professional storyteller Darren Hill, life is a pilgrimage. “It’s a journey which has a beginning… an end, and the middle bit.” Darren’s “middle bit” includes prestigious theatrical training and a career he loves. However, it began with the challenge of dyslexia and facing opposition while pursuing his storytelling dreams. He believes overcoming life’s obstacles is possible through stubbornness, determination, humility and listening to others. “I’ve met people from all cultures and ages that teach me… what life’s all about,” says Darren. “I am the product of all of those people, and they [are] all with me… as a part of who I am.”  In recent years, Darren performed a one-man theatrical production nearly every night during a 500-mile pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago—which exposed him to the life stories of countless fellow travellers. Join Charly Burridge-Jones as she and Darren discuss lessons learned throughout his physical pilgrimage as well as the pilgrimage all human beings have in common—the journey of life. 

Grief after losing a loved one—though devastating—is felt by many. Richard Auger and Camilla McNally came to understand this pain first-hand after unexpected tragedy struck their lives. While their personal stories are different, both beautifully convey how faith in Christ enabled them to overcome grief. Focusing on prayer, service and self-compassion has the power to displace confusion, bitterness, and sorrow with comfort, hope, and healing. Richard and Camilla, both members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, believe that one day pain, sorrow, and death will be done away and that eventually, they will be joyfully reunited with their lost loved ones. In the meantime, the sorrow they have experienced serves as a reminder of the abiding love felt for those who have passed on. Join Charly Burridge-Jones as she talks with Richard and Camilla about how we can help ourselves and each other navigate and overcome grief. 

Peter and Alexandra Mackenzie Johns met at age 16 and dated for a few years before serving missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and going their separate ways. After eight years, they reconnected and realized they were perfect for each other. During their ten-year marriage, they have lived and worked in Jersey, India, and soon, Jordan. Alex and Pete regularly trade off the roles of child caretaker and breadwinner as they care for each other’s interests and health. The couple participates in the Nauvoo and British pageants as a way to share their love of the arts and to express their faith in Christ.

Lola Ogunbote was only 14 years old when she had an experience with racism that changed her life forever. Lola is a black woman, football coach, activist, and member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Regular encounters with racism do not stop her from pursuing her dreams. She is a firm believer that in order to build bridges and eliminate injustice, we must learn to love each other in the way that Jesus Christ loves each of us.As brothers and sisters in Christ, it is our duty to accept each other, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality. The best way to combat ignorance is to ask questions with a sincere attempt at understanding and to put our prejudices aside, letting love in.

This week on Hope Helps, Charly Burridge-Jones speaks with Felicity and Ben Munzer, a newlywed couple living in England. They assert that the ideal marriage is 1+1=3, where two individuals join together to create something greater than themselves. Ben and Felicity know that they have found a relationship that has clicked into place, and that with persistent effort and care for each other, their marriage will last a lifetime and beyond.

In this episode of Hope Helps, Tom Christofferson and Arteh Odjidja reflect on how we can affirm ourselves in Christ. As members of the LGBTQ+ community, they share their common life experiences on being members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and how we can reach out and love those around us.Tom is the author of inspirational books, That We May Be One: A Gay Mormon’s Perspective on Faith & Family and A Better Heart: The Impact of Christ’s Pure Love. Arteh is an award-winning professional photographer, best known for ‘The Stranger Series,’ a project that has been displayed in prominent galleries worldwide, as well as before the Queen. Join Charly Burridge-Jones as she talks with Tom and Arteh about how they seek to come closer to Christ and lift others on the way.

Kristen Metzger, a singer, actress, director, and more takes time to truly connect with an exceptional group of people. What makes these people so unique? They are the last colony of lepers that were exiled to the island of Molokai, Hawaii. In this episode of Hope Helps, Charly Burridge-Jones and her guest, Kristen Metzger, speak about how each of us can reach out to others who are struggling with hardships and difficulties, in a loving and uplifting manner.Charly and Kristen talk about the beautiful island of Molokai and the lovely people that Kristen has the blessing of interacting with. It became clear that the individuals living in this colony enjoy the typical things that everyone enjoys. The beauty of nature, the emotions a good film brings, and the company of a dear friend. It is evident that people, even with ailments and illnesses, still need love and support. They share insights on how each of us can become more equipped to love individuals that might be, slightly more difficult to love. 

On this week’s episode of Hope Helps, host Charly Burridge-Jones welcomes Peter and Kay O’Malley. Together, they discuss how life changes can be a positive experience. In his twenties, Peter spent almost two years in prison. Following his sentence, he found a home in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Peter and Kay were married in 2013 and together have ten children. Their relationship is based on mutual respect and years of trusting friendship.Discover how Peter went from convict to convert on this week’s episode. Download now!

In this week’s episode, Charly Burridge-Jones talks with singer and performer Alex Boyé about how music and faith have been a source of hope during times of trial.  At just 16 Alex was homeless and performing on the streets in order to make his way in the world. He had dreams and ambitions he could only dream of coming true. With vigilant hard work and hope for brighter days, Alex was able to achieve those dreams. Despite a challenging upbringing, he went on to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, perform in a successful boy band, moves to Utah, marry the love of his life, and become a father to eight children. In this episode, Boyé shares the role music has played in his life as a source of hope, faith and inspiration. He reflects on how his faith has developed and grown through his trials. 

Irish Paralympian Jason Smyth and his wife, Elise, guide Charly-Burridge-Jones through their relationship journey on this episode of Hope Helps. Life’s challenges come in many forms but balancing a family and a Paralympic career is certainly a unique one.  Jason is a five-time gold medallist at the Paralympic Games and holds world records in the 100- and 200-metre sprints. Elise is a stay-at-home mother who takes care of their two young daughters while finding friendship within her church community. Together, they strive to maintain a healthy marriage and a positive attitude through clouds or sunshine.

Around the world, there are millions of people fleeing their homes due to war, violence and persecution. The refugee crisis may seem distant, but there are ways we can help from our own homes. On this episode of Hope Helps, host Charly Burridge-Jones and guests shed new light on the experiences of refugees and volunteers in Europe.Gulwali Passarlay, a refugee-turned-writer shares his experiences during and after his flight from Afghanistan. Nina Kerrou explains what it’s like to volunteer in refugee aid and how ordinary people can help. Both guests acknowledge the need for individuals to assist and help support refugees who cannot help themselves.

No matter our age, profession, or background we all have dreams and things we hope for in the future. In this episode of Hope Helps, Charly Burridge-Jones and her guests talk about how to explore what our dreams might be and some helpful tips for how to chase them. Charly reflects on how we are all encouraged to chase our dreams, but that it can be difficult to navigate what that looks like. Her first guest, Steve Edwards, worked in the police service for over 30 years. He now volunteers with the National Trust and Red Cross, and DJ’s on the weekends. He shares the importance of having dreams that genuinely inspire us. Dreams are meant to motivate us and help us know what life we want to make for ourselves. Charly’s second guest, Bronwyn Jones is currently perusing a master’s degree in architecture and has a big passion for music. Last year despite Covid- 19 restrictions Bronwyn with the help of others was able to organise and direct a virtual concert of the Rising Generation Choir which included more than 100 individuals from all over the UK. Bronwyn emphasises remembering why we had the dream in the first place and being patient with the timing often required to achieve our dreams. Links to learn more about the Rising Generation choir can be found below: https://uk.churchofjesuschrist.org/go-and-do-an-evening-of-song Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ChurchOfJesusChristUK/posts/3542490979106841 YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zqm9BsghQT0Facebook: The Rising Generation Choir UK & IrelandInstagram: @the_rg_choir

Balancing mental, physical and spiritual health can be tough, even during a regular year. With the added problems and opportunities of the last year, it is easy to feel like you are falling short. In this week’s episode of Hope Helps, Charly Burridge-Jones and her guests talk about how they have adapted to maintain their holistic health.Charly shares her own experiences about how COVID has changed the way she works and spends her spare time. She also speaks with HR worker Kangwa Musonda, physiotherapist Stefano Dimartino and General Practice Counsellor Traci De Marco as they share relatable experiences they have had during the pandemic. Each of these guests has struggled to some degree with long-distance relationships, working from home, or general weariness. They take comfort in knowing that the pandemic is not forever and that “what will happen will happen.”

Finding our life’s work can seem a daunting task. In this episode of Hope Helps, Charly Burridge-Jones and her guests explore tips that can help guide us on our own journey to find direction. Charly begins by expressing how individual our journeys can be and how important it is to approach the work we do positively. Her first guests are Hannah and David Bain. Hannah works as an acupuncturist who, from an early age, was surrounded by alternative health practices. She emphasises the importance of finding your spark and following the passions that ignite it. Her husband David, a creative designer for Jaguar Land Rover, explains that sometimes we don’t realise what doors can open from the experiences we are having now. Although certain jobs might just be steppingstones, what matters is that we are moving forward. 

Relationships can be complicated. Add in the circumstances surrounding Covid and we can all experience another level of complexity. In this episode of Hope Helps Charly Burridge-Jones and her guests explore tips that can strengthen relationships with each other, at any level. Charly begins by sharing her personal story of how she discovered love in her life. Her first guest, Sammy Odoi is a social worker who shares tips from the ‘Real Talk’ workshops he and his wife led. These workshops were designed to help young people find and create healthy relationships. Charly also spoke with university students Elise and John Price who got engaged just before Covid hit. The Prices share how they learned what matters most during a long-distance relationship and a crazy Covid wedding. 

Traditionally a New Year brings with it the promise of a new beginning. With the challenges and heartbreak of a worldwide pandemic that began this past year, many are hopeful that 2021 will bring new opportunities and a fresh start.In this episode of Hope Helps, host Charly Burridge-Jones explores the topic of New Year’s goals with Lauren and Gabe Jones and executive coach Daryl Watson. The Joneses, two university students from Wales, share stories with Charly about their sometimes-creative goal setting experiences; the ones that worked and the ones that didn’t. Daryl Watson provides professional and personal insights about how to approach goal setting and even find success when goals aren’t realised.

In the first episode of Hope Helps host Charly Burridge-Jones and her guests reflect on their unique experiences of the Christmas season, even in the circumstances surrounding Covid-19.Guest Savannah Stevenson, a wife, new mother and well-known West End actress, shares her thoughts of what it was like to portray Mary, the mother of Jesus, in an international film version of The New Testament.Restrictions surrounding Covid-19 have affected many this Christmastime. John Maxwell and Candice MacAllister share how they and their friends reach and connect with others, hoping to diminish loneliness and isolation this Christmas season.