Building Zion Podcast

smashly85

Building Zion is the podcast for faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who believe the Second Coming of Jesus Christ is near—but also understand that Zion won’t simply appear after Christ returns. It must be built before He comes again.

Each episode explores practical, spiritual, and deeply personal ways to build Zion within your own heart—because Zion will rise one covenant keeper at a time. As you transform your inner world, that light naturally expands to your family, your ward, and eventually your community.

Through scripture-based insights, stories, actionable tools, and uplifting conversations, Building Zion helps you:

• Strengthen your discipleship and deepen your conversion

• Cultivate Christlike attributes needed for a Zion people

• Create greater unity and love within your home

• Influence your community for good as a disciple of Christ

• Prepare spiritually and emotionally for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ

If you’ve ever wondered how to actually build Zion now—and what your personal role is in preparing the world for the Savior’s return—this podcast will guide you step-by-step.

Join the movement. Grow your heart. Strengthen your family. Help build God’s community on earth.

To schedule an Emotional Release Appointment with me click here:

https://buildingzionwithashleyparker.as.me/

Play

Open in

21 episodes
weekly
Avg 25 min
English

Episodes 21

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

Friday · 29 min
The Stories We Tell Ourselves (and How They Keep Us from Zion
We all create stories in our minds about what other people mean, especially when something triggers us. Most of the time those stories aren’t true—but we still ruminate on them, project them onto others (and sometimes onto God), and let them shape our relationships. In this episode we explore why the brain is wired to create these narratives, how trauma colors the lens we hear people through, and practical ways to question the stories, release the emotions attached to them, and move toward clearer connection and Zion unity. To schedule an Emotional Release Session with me, click the link: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
September 4 · 25 min
Sermon on The Mount/Transcending the Mind to Zion Thinking
In this episode we go deeper into the power of the mind. We explore how the three main parts of the brain—especially the ancient reptilian survival brain—shape our automatic reactions, and how Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount is actually an invitation to move out of that reactive circuitry into higher, Spirit-led thinking. Through the lens of the brain, trauma responses, and key Beatitudes, we discover that the Sermon is practical training for building Zion: a people of pure heart who respond rather than react.
August 29 · 20 min
Tending the Garden of Your Mind
Your thoughts are real forces. They are seeds. And the mind is a living garden that God has entrusted to you. In this episode we explore how repeated thoughts take root in the subconscious, shape neural pathways, and eventually appear as the circumstances of our lives. Drawing on the law of cause and effect, the science of how the brain works, and the beautiful invitation of repentance as a change of mind, we look at what it means to become the master gardener of our inner world. You’ll hear a personal story of shifting from the belief that “life is hard” to the living truth that “all things work together for my good,” along with two powerful teachings from President Russell M. Nelson on the Greek meaning of repentance and the daily, liberating process of changing the way we think. Whether you are carrying heavy thoughts, praying for breakthrough, or simply longing to partner more fully with the Lord in the renewal of your mind, this conversation is an invitation to pick up the tools, tend the soil, and watch what He grows. To schedule an Emotional Release Process, click on the link: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
August 22 · 24 min
Spiritual Gifts: Discovering, Developing, and Using Them for Zion
In this episode we go deeper into spiritual gifts—what they really are, how they differ from talents, how to recognize the light and dark sides of every gift, and how to intentionally work within them. Drawing from personal experiences, scripture, and teachings from Elder Bednar and Elder Uchtdorf, we explore why spiritual gifts are essential for becoming like Christ and how they will function as the true currency of Zion. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click on the link: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
August 16 · 35 min
Dreams and Visions-Part 3
In this episode we move into the practical heart of the series: how to properly interpret a dream. You’ll learn how to discern whether a dream is from the Lord, how to receive clear yes-and-no answers through the Holy Ghost, how to carefully unpack symbolism, and why every true dream carries a call to action. We also walk through a real dream interpretation together so you can see the process in action. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click the link https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
August 8 · 17 min
Dreams and Visions Part 2
In this episode, Ashley explores the sacred gifts of dreams and visions. She distinguishes between divine dreams, spirit-led dreams, and adversarial dreams, explains how visions differ from dreams, and shares personal experiences that illustrate their power. Listeners are invited to approach these gifts with humility, discernment, and a firm foundation in Christ as essential preparation for building Zion—one mind and one heart at a time. To schedule an Emotion Release Process with me, hit the link and it will take you to my schedule: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
July 31 · 32 min
Dreams and Visions Part 1
In this episode of the Building Zion Podcast, Ashley shares a deeply personal story of how the Lord used dreams to guide her through multiple miscarriages and ultimately bring her son Ethan into the world. She explores how dreams and visions are a real form of communication from the Lord when our spiritual eyes are open, the importance of understanding symbolism, the difference between the gift of dreams and the gift of interpretation, and common false beliefs that can block us from receiving this revelation. Drawing on scripture, personal experience, and prophetic teachings, Ashley shows how dreams can refine us, reveal our personal mission, and help us become a people of one mind and one heart—prepared to build Zion before the Second Coming. Key Scriptures & Quotes • Revelation 2:4–5 • Helaman 11:23 • Joel 2:28 / Acts 2:17 • Wendy Watson: “It is my testimony that the heavens are open. They are open for the prophet of the Lord, and they are open to each and every one of us as we do the requisite spiritual work.” • Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf (2014, “Receiving a Testimony of Light and Truth”): “The Everlasting and Almighty God… will speak to those who approach Him with a sincere heart and real intent. He will speak to them in dreams, visions, thoughts, and feelings…” • President Gordon B. Hinckley (2001): “The vision of Joel has been fulfilled.” In This Episode • Ashley’s personal journey with prophetic dreams during her miscarriages and the birth of her son Ethan • Why dreams are often symbolic and how the Lord speaks in our own language • The difference between the gift of dreams and the gift of interpreting dreams • How to stay grounded and avoid deception when interpreting dreams • Common false beliefs that limit our ability to receive dreams and visions • Why dreams and visions matter in the last days as we prepare to build Zion Next Week We’ll go deeper into the differences between dreams and visions, practical steps for interpreting them, and how to know if a dream is from the Lord. Connect & Build Zion With Us • Follow the podcast and leave a review • Instagram: @building.zion • Schedule an emotional release session: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process Keep building Zion—one mind and one heart at a time.
July 24 · 22 min
The Language of God: Unlocking Symbolism
What if the scriptures are far richer than we’ve been taught? In this episode, we explore symbolism — the language of God — and how learning it transforms our understanding of the scriptures, our covenants, and our personal relationship with the Savior. Using the Parable of the Good Samaritan as a powerful example, we move from the beautiful surface-level lesson of compassion to a deeper layer that reveals Christ as our Good Samaritan on the dangerous road of mortality. We also discuss the crimson worm of Psalm 22, the symbolic power of the number 40, and practical ways to begin seeing with spiritual eyes. If you’re ready to make the scriptures come alive and better understand your role in building Zion, this episode is for you. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click on the link: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
#58
July 17 · 19 min
Opening Our Spiritual Eyes and Hearing God in the Ordinary
In this vulnerable and faith-filled episode, I share the sacred personal stories of how God used birds — and other ordinary things — to speak to me during pivotal moments in my spiritual journey. From my very first “bird tap” on my birthday to a full flock answering my doubts and a winter bird confirming our land purchase, these experiences taught me how to truly see with spiritual eyes and hear the Lord’s personal guidance. Whether you’re just beginning to recognize God’s hand in your life or you’ve been walking with Him for years, this episode will encourage you to open your spiritual senses and trust that He speaks to you in ways tailored to your heart. Key Topics • The beginning of spiritual awakening and seeing with spiritual eyes • How God speaks through everyday objects, animals, songs, and moments • My personal “bird stories” and the powerful confirmations they brought • Moving forward in faith even when fear and doubt are present • Building a Zion-centered life through obedience and personal revelation • A gentle warning about putting God in a box vs. staying open to His will. Timestamps • 00:00 – Welcome & recap of last week’s episode • 02:45 – Why I rarely share these sacred experiences • 06:10 – The Birthday Tap: My first powerful bird story (B.I.R.D.) • 12:30 – The Quilt & Second Confirmation • 19:45 – The Flock That Answered My Deepts Doubts • 25:10 – The Winter Bird and the Land • 31:50 – Learning to See and Hear Spiritually • 38:20 – Elder Jeffrey R. Holland quote & closing testimony • 44:15 – Final encouragement & prayerful invitation Key Takeaways • God knows you personally and delights in speaking to you in intimate, unmistakable ways. • Ordinary things (birds, quilts, songs, conversations) can become sacred channels of revelation. • Spiritual eyes and ears grow stronger with time, patience, and practice. • Faith means moving forward even when fear is present. • “Thy will be done” keeps our hearts open to however He chooses to answer. • These personal experiences are foundational to building Zion in our homes and communities. To schedule an Emotional Release Session with me, click here: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
July 11 · 21 min
No Coincidences: How Spiritual Sight Changes Everything on the Path to Zion
What if one of the clearest signs you’re being born again is learning to see life through spiritual eyes? In this episode, Ashley shares powerful personal stories of divine protection, answered prayers, and tender mercies that taught her to recognize God’s hand instead of coincidence. Discover how shifting from natural eyes to spiritual vision transforms your relationship with Christ and helps you build Zion one heart at a time. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click the link: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
#54
July 2 · 13 min
From Weakness to Zion: Letting God Transform Us
Do you ever catch yourself saying, “That’s just how I was born”? In this episode, we explore how God calls us higher than our natural tendencies and weaknesses. Discover why our struggles are not random but part of a divine plan to help us become like Him. Through the power of the Atonement, Christ meets us in our weakest moments and turns them into strength. This isn’t just about personal growth — it’s about building Zion, one transformed heart at a time. Learn how overcoming weakness prepares us to gather Israel and strengthen the Lord’s kingdom. To schedule an Emotional Release Session, click the link: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
June 26 · 28 min
Born Again Part 2
In this powerful episode, we explore what it really means to be “born again”—moving from a church-centered life of routines and checklists to a deeply personal, Christ-centered relationship with the Savior. Even when we’re doing all the “right” things—attending church, praying, studying scriptures—many still feel a lingering distance from God. Why? Because closeness isn’t found by doing more, but by removing what’s keeping us far. Discover five practical keys to genuine intimacy with God: • Dropping the mask and praying with raw honesty • Learning to sit in silence and listen • Turning scriptures into a living conversation • Pursuing obedience from love, not performance • Choosing connection daily, even when you don’t feel like it If you’ve been thirsting for more but feel stuck in spiritual routines, this episode will help you rediscover your first love and experience the fruit of the Tree of Life. The Savior is closer than you think—He’s just waiting for you to draw near. To schedule an Emotional Release Session, click on the link below: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
June 19 · 25 min
Born Again-Part 1
In this episode, we explore the transformative journey from a church-centered life to a Christ-centered one—and what it really means to be spiritually reborn. Drawing from President David O. McKay’s powerful vision of those who have “truly been born again,” Lehi’s dream of the Tree of Life, and key scriptures like Ether 12, 2 Nephi 33, and Alma 33, we discuss how the fruit of the tree represents the pure love of God (charity) and how we reach it through the iron rod: scriptures, prophetic words, and personal revelation. We examine why many of us stay stuck in checklist Christianity—like the Pharisees or Laman and Lemuel—and how a deep, personal relationship with “my Jesus” (2 Nephi 33:6) changes everything. Believing in Christ is not the same as believing Christ—trusting He will heal, redeem, and provide for you personally. I share a vulnerable story from our family’s recent move into our long-awaited home: the faith-filled journey, the unexpected loss of our largest client right after closing, and the tender miracle that came just days later—evidence that Christ-centered trust brings peace amid trials. Ultimately, this spiritual rebirth bridges the gap between rules and relationship, grounding us in truth while opening the door to greater revelation. When we combine a solid church foundation with a reborn heart, we become of one mind and one heart—building Zion together. If you’re craving the pure love of God and wondering how to move beyond the checklist into a living relationship with the Savior, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: • The essential role of personal revelation • Overcoming the lies that keep us from believing Christ can work in our lives • Why both Church and Christ-centered living matter • Practical hope for facing trials with trust Scripture Highlights: Lehi’s Dream, Ether 12:34, 2 Nephi 33:6, Alma 33:20, President Ezra Taft Benson on being Born of God. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click the link and it will take you to my schedule: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
June 12 · 24 min
Identity in Christ
We often learn to identify ourself by our hobbies, occupations, failures, successes, traumas, or by what others identify us as. But do those identities always serve us or are they really us? When those identities start to create tension in our life, God is often inviting us to upgrade our identity to one that is more in alignment with who we really are. There is one identity though, that should never change. One that we should center all other identities around. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click on the link below. https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
June 4 · 20 min
Sitting In The Goo
Life is hard. God wants us to transform and grow. That growth comes from allowing ourself to become a new creature. Learning to sit in the tension, and work through our emotions, beliefs, and shadows allows for that transformation. Clink on the link below to schedule an Emotional Release Session: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
May 28 · 25 min
Sweet and Bitter
To often we get caught up in checklists and black and white thinking. However, as we mature in our faith we start to realize that the gospel isn’t as black and white as we thought. When we learn that we can hold two opposite truths at the same time, we stop warring within ourselves. If you’d like to schedule an emotional release session with me, click the link below: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
May 21 · 24 min
Mirror Mirror
In our mirroring episode, we talk about how naturally reflecting someone’s energy, body language, tone, or emotions can really deepen your connection with them. We got into why it works (mirror neurons, rapport-building, all that good stuff), shared some real-life stories, and looked at when it’s super helpful like in relationships, parenting, or even tough conversations and when it can backfire if you’re mirroring the wrong things. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click the link for my schedule: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
May 15 · 32 min
Shadow Work/Atonement Work
Have you ever been triggered by someone else’s behavior or something they have said? We all have. These are times that they are actually mirroring to us something inside ourselves that we have suppressed. These are times we can pull those characteristics out of ourselves and bring them to the light. Shadow work allows us to see those characteristics we have hidden or rejected inside of ourselves. They allow us to bring them to the light and love those aspects of ourselves and use them for good. If you would like to schedule an Emotional Release Session with me, click the link below. https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
May 7 · 8 min
Shadow Work Meditation
Continuing from last weeks episode, we have a simple meditation that will help you meet and accept any part of you that you have rejected or suppressed. This powerful tool, will open your heart to the gift that part plays in your life. This creates that oneness inside of ourselves. To schedule an Emotional Release Session with me, click the link below: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process
May 1 · 36 min
Bringing Darkness to light
How many times have you heard that we need to overcome the natural man? How do we do that though? Too often we think that entails suppressing or rejecting parts of ourselves. But this isn’t the pattern Christ teaches on how to overcome though. Shadow work is the sacred journey of turning inward to embrace the hidden, repressed parts of your soul—known as the shadow. Rooted in Carl Jung’s psychology and embraced by many spiritual paths, it involves gently uncovering the fears, wounds, emotions, and aspects of yourself that you once rejected or buried. These shadow pieces often shape your triggers, patterns, and relationships from the unconscious. Through shadow work, you bring them into the light with compassion, heal old wounds, and integrate them with love. Rather than fighting your darkness, you transform it. By welcoming every part of your being, you move toward greater wholeness, authenticity, inner peace, and spiritual awakening. To schedule an Emotional Release Process with me, click the link: https://calendly.com/smashly85/emotional-release-process

Showing 1–20 of 21 episodes