Mormon Stories Podcast
Mormon Stories Podcast is a long-running show exploring Mormon culture through personal narratives. It features in-depth interviews with current and former members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The podcast is produced by the Open Stories Foundation, a nonprofit supporting Mormons in religious transition. It is independent and not affiliated with the LDS Church.
Episodes
The History of Tithing - LDS Discussions Ep. 81 | Ep. 2183
In Episode 81 of the LDS Discussions series, we take a deep dive into the history of Mormon tithing –where the concept comes from, how it appears in the Bible and Book of Mormon, how Joseph Smith and the early Latter-day Saints understood it, and how the practice evolved into the modern LDS Church’s system of financial requirements. We begin with the biblical origins of tithing, examining passages
Bishop and Stake President Conflict After a Mormon Faith Crisis - Coy Johnston | Ep. 2182
Today we sit down with Coy Johnston, a longtime active member of the LDS Church, to explore what it looks like to question Mormonism without completely walking away.Coy grew up in Mesa, Arizona, served a mission in England, became a doctor, and spent his life deeply involved in the church. His faith began to shift as he studied scripture and biblical scholarship, and issues with early Mormon churc
FAIRLDS Warns of Satan, Girl Bishops?, BYU Marriage Decline - Mormon News 8.14.26 | Ep. 2181
On today’s episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.FAIR Warns: Satan Wants You to LeaveThe 2026 FAIR Conference brought together LDS apologists and defenders of the Church for three days of presentations. We look at FAIR president Scott Gordon’s warning about the strategies he believes
When a Child Questions Mormonism - Annie Marie | Ep. 2180
What would cause a child to lose their LDS faith? We strive to answer this question in today's interview with TikTok star, Annie Marie. Annie is an ex-mormon content creator who has gained an audience from her satirical videos that mainly center around questions she had as a child growing up in the LDS faith. Today she sits down with John and Margi to share her full Mormon story, offer comment
YOU WILL STAY!, Ken Jennings, Arizona Ruling, Young Women Leaving | Mormon News 8.8.26 | Ep. 2179
On today's episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with a major Arizona Supreme Court ruling protecting clergy confidentiality when abuse is disclosed during religious confession. We'll discuss what the decision means, why it matters, and the broader questions it raises
Healing my Inner Child After Mormonism - Mindy Gledhill | Ep. 2178
Today on Mormon Stories, we are thrilled to welcome back singer-songwriter Mindy Gledhill, who is returning to the podcast to share the stories behind her newest collection of songs, the PhoneBooth Sessions (vol. 1 & 2), which reflect on her childhood, adolescence, and life after stepping away from Mormonism.Along the way, she opens up about some of the early questions that challenged her fait
Security and Exchange Commission Scandal - LDS Discussions Pt. 80 | Ep. 2177
In Episode 80 of our LDS Discussions series, Julia, Kolby, and Nemo the Mormon join together for a deep dive into one of the most significant financial controversies in modern Latter-day Saint history: Ensign Peak Advisors and the SEC’s investigation into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The discussion begins by examining what Ensign Peak Advisors is, why the Church created an enor
Mormon Missionary Held Against Her Will - Hailey Walser | Ep. 2176
Why are so many young Mormons leaving the Church? Today, we're joined by Hailey Walker to explore that question through the lens of her own Mormon story.Hailey was raised in the Church in Alaska, where growing up Mormon looked very different from the experience many members have in Utah. As a teenager, she began asking questions about feminism, Church culture, and the role of women, but still
BYU Professor Creates AI Deepfakes of Children - Mormon News 7.24.26 | Ep. 2175
On today's episode of Mormon News, Nemo the Mormon and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with new research identifying seven trends shaping the future of the LDS Church, including changing missionary priorities, evolving member behaviors, and what the data suggests about where Mormonism may be headed.Link:h
Ancient Jewish Tradition? Jasmin & The Book of Abraham - LDS Discussions Pt. 79 | Ep. 2174
Welcome to LDS Discussions Part 79, where we continue our deep dive into the Book of Abraham, examining one of the most popular apologetic arguments: the claim that Joseph Smith drew on ancient traditions about Abraham rather than translating the surviving papyri.We begin by exploring the history of the Joseph Smith Papyri and the various theroies proposed to explain the Book of Abraham, including
The Cost of Leaving Christianity - Thomas Westbrook | Ep. 2173
Thomas Westbrook, creator and host of Holy Koolaid, joins Mormon Stories to share his remarkable journey from growing up in an intensely fundamental Christian environment to becoming one of YouTube’s leading voices for skepticism, science, and critical thinking.Raised by missionary parents and immersed in evangelical culture from childhood, Thomas recounts life overseas, homeschooling, Youth With
LDS Church Claims Record 88,500 Missionaries. Is It True? Mormon News 7.17.26 | Ep. 2172
On today's episode of Mormon News, Nemo the Mormon and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with the Church's announcement that more than 88,500 missionaries are now serving worldwide, which leaders say is an all-time record. We'll examine whether today's LDS missionary statistics are truly comparable to previous
John Larsen v. John Dehlin - 2026 Edition | Ep. 2171
After years away from the microphone, John Larsen returns to Mormon Stories Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation. A legend in the Mormon and ex-Mormon podcasting world, John Larsen helped shape an entire generation of critical Mormon thought through Mormon Expression. Now, he sits down with John Dehlin to reflect on the journey that brought him here –from his Mormon upbringing and faith crisis
Mormon Apostle’s Brother Faces LIFE, DOMO CEO Josh James Arrested - Mormon News 7.10.26 | Ep. 2170
On today's episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with breaking news involving the family of Apostle D. Todd Christofferson. His brother, Wade Christofferson, has pleaded guilty in federal court to sexually abusing minors and sending sexually explicit letters to a young Ut
Mormon Wife Loses Faith, Husband is Elder’s Quorum President - Devlyn and Randy Day | Ep. 2169
What happens when one spouse loses their faith while the other is serving as an Elder’s Quorum President? In this episode of Mormon Stories, Devlyn and Randy Day share their remarkable journey through one of the most difficult challenges a Mormon marriage can face: a mixed-faith relationship.Raised in a deeply faithful Latter-day homes, they built what they believed was the ideal Mormon family. Bu
Rasband's Big Claim, Prison Garments, 55 New Missions - Mormon News 7.3.26 | Ep. 2168
On today's episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.This week we take a closer look at Elder Ronald A. Rasband's patriotic address, where he claimed God preserved the United States for the Restoration, taught that Noah's Flood fractured the continents to protect the promised
Explosive History in the William Clayton Diaries w/ Bryan Buchanan & LDS Discussions Pt 78 | Ep 2167
Welcome to another episode of LDS Discussions! We are joined again by Bryan Buchanan to discuss the William Clayton Diaries.The William Clayton Diaries are among the most important firsthand records from Joseph Smith’s final years in Nauvoo. Few individuals stood closer to Joseph Smith than William Clayton, who served as clerk, confidant, and participant in many of the most controversial events of
Hidden History of the William Clayton Diaries w/ Bryan Buchanan - LDS Discussions Pt. 77 | Ep. 2166
Welcome to another episode of LDS Discussions! Today we are joined by Bryan Buchanan to discuss the William Clayton Diaries.For decades, the William Clayton Diaries have occupied a near-mythical place in Mormon history. Hidden away in the First Presidency vault, copied in secret, fought over in court, leaked to researchers, and cited in some of the most controversial debates surrounding Joseph Smi
Oaks’ True Church, Abusive Mormon Dentist?, Too Close to the Bishop - Mormon News 6.26.26 | Ep. 2165
On today's episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.This week we take a closer look at the 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders, where Church leaders doubled down on claims of exclusive authority, the "only true church," and what they describe as "true doctrine."
Did LDS Leaders Teach That Sexual Sin Is Next to Murder? - LDS Discussions Pt. 76 | Ep. 2164
For years, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were taught that violations of the law of chastity were “next to murder” in seriousness. Recently, Jasmin Rappleye defended that teaching (and maybe changed its interpretation) in a viral video, sparking widespread discussion both inside and otuside Mormonism.In this somehat impromptu epsiode in our LDS Discussiones series, we w
LDS Stake President Covers Up Abuse & Becomes Area Authority Seventy - Rebecca Gooden | Ep. 2163
What happens when a trusted Mormon leader learns about child sexual abuse –and choses not to report it? In this powerful and heartbreaking episode, Rebecca Gooden and her son Matthew share their family’s story of abuse, betrayal, and institutional failure within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Years after discovering that her husband, Shawn Gooden, had sexually abused two of her y
Kyle McKay Apologizes, Is "Mormon" Making a Comeback?, Gong and AI - Mormon News 6.19.26 | Ep. 2162
This week on Mormon Stories News, we take a closer look at the people, controversies, and events making waves across Mormonism.We begin with the story of a disturbing abuse case involving a former LDS Priest Quorum Specialist accused of sexually abusing his nephew. The case has prompted conversations about trust, access to youth, safeguarding policies, and whether church members are adequately tra
How LDS Apologists like Jasmin Rappleye Handle the Book of Abraham - LDS Discussions Pt. 75 | Ep. 2161
In a recent episode on the YouTube channel Hello Saints, Jeff McCullough interviewed Jasmin Rappleye (who got her degree from BYU in Ancient Near Eastern Studies) about one of Mormonism’s most controversial scriptures: the Book of Mormon. During the discussion, several apologetic approaches to the Book of Abraham was presented. In this episode, we examine three of the most common theories used to
From Megachurch to Mormon: Watching the Church Become What I Left - Lance Kennedy | Ep. 2160
What happens when the son of a Pentecostal megachurch pastor decides to become Mormon?In this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we sit down with Lance Kennedy to discuss his unique religious journey from evangelical Christianity to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Raised in Texas as the son of a prominent pastor, Lance grew up behind the scenes of one of the fastest-growing church
Mormons Not Christian Says Pete Hegseth's Department of War? - Mormon News 6.11.26 | Ep. 2159
This week on Mormon Stories News, John Dehlin along with Julia, and Brooklyn of the OSF team, break down some of the biggest stories making headlines in Mormonism.President Nelson announced the Springfield, Missouri temple on April 2, 2023, yet ground was just broken for it on June 6, 2026. Why the delay? Have other temples been delayed? What is the average amount of time for a temple to be finish
How a Mormon Therapist Lost His Faith - Brad Reedy | Ep. 2157
Today on Mormon Stories Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Brad Reedy, therapist, author, and founder of “Finding You Intensives”, to discuss his remarkable journey through faith, spirituality, addiction, and personal growth. We are also very glad to be joined by Samantha Shelly (from Zelph on the Shelf) for this uplifting conversation. Raised outside of religion, Brad spent much of his youth searching
Mormon Lego Scandal w/ Bricks & Minifigs, @RecklessBen & American Fork Police | Ep. 2157
What started as a dispute over a massive LEGO Star Wars collection has exploded into one of the strangest stories on YouTube.Join Dr. John Dehlin, Julia Sanders of Analyzing Mormonism, and never-Mormon commentator Matt Gillespie of Matt's Kustom Kreations, as they investigate the viral controversy surrounding a LEGO collection reportedly worth more than $200,000. Together, they examine the timelin
Mormon Sealings & Nate Oman w/ Bryan Buchanan - LDS Discussions Pt. 74 | Ep. 2156
In this episode, we expand on ideas presented by Nate Oman during a discussion on Faith Matters and trace the complicated, evolving history of Mormon sealings from Joseph Smith through the 20th century.Today, “eternal families” are often presented as the central purpose of temple sealings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But historically, the story is much messier.In this conver
From Anti-Scientologist to “Anti-Mormon” - “TrevAnon” from the Netherlands | Ep. 2155
We have a very special guest on Mormon Stories today, who some of our live audience may know as "TrevAnon" on YouTube. He has helped out for many years as a moderator for Mormon Stories livestreams, and he is here today to tell us why a Never-Mormon from the Netherlands would find interest in Mormonism. This episode will begin with Trev's story, and how he developed his interest in c
Sheriff Sex Scandal, Stake Pres. Fraud, Church Stocks Lose Billions - Mormon News 5/29/26 | Ep. 2154
This week on Mormon Stories News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down some of the biggest stories making headlines in Mormonism.We begin with the growing scandal surrounding former Pinal County Sheriff and congressional candidate Mark Lamb. Recent reporting from The Arizona Republic details allegations involving explicit messages, secret relationships, and accusations that raise serious questi
LDS Church Leaders Falling for Frauds - LDS Discussions Pt. 73 | Ep. 2153
Welcome to Episode 73 in our LDS Discussions series!In this episode, we explore the long history of fraud, forgery, and "discernment" within Mormon history –from Joseph Smith’s treasure digging and the Kinderhook Plates to the Salamander Letter, Paul Dunn, Tim Ballard, and Jodi Hildebrandt.We discuss why people believe extraordinary claims, the role of critical thinking and skepticism, a
Teen Stays Faithful after CES Letter and Mormon Stories Podcast - Gustavo Hernandez | Ep. 2152
Content Warning: Discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation.In this episode of Mormon Stories, Gustavo Hernandez from Mexico City shares his experience growing up Mormon in Mexico, discovering difficult church history as a teenager, and ultimately choosing to remain an active, believing member of the Church while navigating doubt, anxiety, and faith crises. Gustavo opens up about the shame cultur
40% of Mormons Raised in the U.S. Have Left the Church - Mormon News 5.22.26 | Ep. 2151
In this episode, John and Meggan examine several major stories shaping the current state of Mormonism, including new research on LDS disaffiliation and decline, increasing institutional strain on local leadership, financial fraud tied to prominent Utah business figures, and the continuing controversy surrounding the Fairview Texas temple.•Drawing from research and analysis by Jeff Strong and team
Leaving the Seventh-day Adventist Church - Melissa Duge Spiers Pt. 2 | Ep. 2150
In Part 2 of our series on Seventh-day Adventism, Melissa Spiers shares her personal story of growing up as a fourth-generation Adventist in a deeply religious family shaped by strict lifestyle rules, purity culture, and constant pressure to perform spiritually.Melissa describes her experience navigating SDA education systems, thought control, and the intense expectations placed on young women wit
Seventh-day Adventism vs. Mormonism - Melissa Duge Spiers | Ep. 2149
For the first time on Mormon Stories Podcast, we’re diving into the world of Seventh-day Adventism. John sits down with Melissa Spiers, a former Seventh-day Adventist, to explore the history, beliefs, culture, and practices of the SDA Church—and to compare them with Mormonism along the way.In Part 1 of this two-part series, Melissa gives an overview of Seventh-day Adventist origins, theology, life
The Aftermath of Joseph Smith's Murder - John Turner Pt. 41 | Ep. 2148
Welcome to our final episode in our Joseph Smith: The Podcast series, where we cover John Turner’s new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.” In this episode, we explore the immediate aftermath of Joseph Smith’s assassination and the profound consequences that followed his family, plural wives, and the early Latter-day Saint movement.The chapter we are covering today is the
BYU’s Most Controversial President - Ernest Wilkinson w/ Gary Bergera | Ep. 2147
In this episode, we dive into the life and legacy of Ernest L. Wilkinson, president of Brigham Young University from 1952 to 1971. Known for rapidly expanding BYU into a major religious university, Wilkinson was also a deeply polarizing figure whose leadership raised serious questions about race, politics, academic freedom, and loyalty within the Church.Joined by historian and longtime Signature B
Another Ex-Mormon Podcaster Ex-Communicated - Landon Brophy | Ep. 2146
Another Mormon podcaster has been excommunicated for apostasy. In this episode, Landon Brophy of the Mormonish Podcat joins us to share his full Mormon story –from devoted BYU-bound Eagle Scout, missionary, seminary teacher, bishopric member, and military chaplain path… to publicly questioning church truth-claims and ultimately being excommunicated by the LDS Church. And all after seven years of b
Language Density in Joseph Smith's Reformed Egyptian - LDS Discussions Pt. 72 | Ep. 2145
Welcome to Episode 72 in our LDS Discussions series! This episode is a treat because for the first time in the history of LDS Discussions, every panelist is actually IN studio!Today we are doing a deep dive into one of the most foundational (and controversial) questions surrounding the Book of Mormon: What does the text actually claim about itself –and do those claims hold up?We explore the Book o
When Your Sister Leaves the Mormon Church - Meggan & Julie O'Neal | Ep. 2144
In today's episode, sisters Meggan and Julie share what it was like growing up in a family of 14 children in a very strict Mormon household. They describe a home built around structure, obedience, and high expectations: early morning scripture study, strict rules, limited privacy, and constant pressure to represent the “ideal” Mormon family. They each re-tell their own experiences growing up i
Joseph Smith's Final Days - John Turner Pt. 40 | Ep. 2143
Welcome to Part 40 of our Joseph Smith Podcast series with Dr. John Turner!Today we are covering the final chapter of Dr. John Turner’s new book, Joseph Smith; The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. The chapter is titled “Bleeding Hearts.”In this episode we unpack the turbulent final months of Joseph Smith’s life in 1844. We explore escalating legal pressures, political tensions in Nauvoo, and
Maya Expert vs. Book of Mormon - Dr. Michael Coe (Re-Broadcast Pt. 2) | Ep. 2142
Welcome back to part 2 of Dr. Michael Coe week here on Mormon Stories Podcast, where we are re-releasing some on the most important episodes in the history of this channel. The original description for this episode reads:"We are excited to revisit Dr. Michael Coe at his home in New Haven, Connecticut, to discuss some of the challenges facing Mormon archaeologists attempting to prove the histo
Yale Archeologist on Book of Mormon Evidence - Dr. Michael Coe (re-broadcast) | Ep. 2141
Join us today for another re-mastered classic Mormon Stories episode! This interview with Dr. Michael Coe is one of the most important Mormon Stories episodes to date. In order to introduce this significant conversation to our newer audiences, we have compiled it into a single episode and re-broadcasting it. The original description for this episode reads,"Dr. Michael Coe is the Charles J. Ma
Joseph Smith Ordained King of the World - John Turner Pt. 39 | Ep. 2140
Welcome to Part 39 of our Joseph Smith Podcast series with Dr. John Turner!In Chapter 30 titled “The Kingdom (which covers the year 1844), we explore what may be the true beginning of the end for Joseph Smith –politically, socially, and religiously. This episode dives into Joseph Smith’s unexpected run for President of the United States, including the development of his platform, his views on slav
LDS Church Sues Mormon Stories Podcast and John Dehlin | Ep. 2139
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is suing Mormon Stories Podcast and Dr. John Dehlin claiming trademark and copyright infringement. We feel very confident in our standing in this case. We also feel as though the church is mischaracterizing what happened in mediation in a way that is misleading, untrue, and damaging. Please join us today to learn our perspective on what the LDS ch
How An Ex-Christian Experiences Mormonism - Jared Smith as @HeliocentricOfficial | Ep. 2138
In this episode, we sit down with Jared Smith –an ex-Christian, former Wheaton College student, and atheist YouTuber –to explore what happens when someone deeply rooted in evangelical Christianity takes a serious look at Mormonism.Jared shares his journey from devoted believer to skeptic, including his time at Wheaton College (often called the “Harvard of Christian institutions”), where he studied
Traitor in the First Presidency - John Turner Pt. 38 | Ep. 2137
In Part 38 with historian John Turner we dive into his latest book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. In this episode, we focus on Chapter 29, “Cool as a Cucumber,” unpacking the turbulent years of 1843-1844 –arguably the beginning of the end for Joseph Smith.We explore mounting legal pressure, political entanglements, and growing internal dissent with Nauvoo. Along the way, w
Graduated BYU and Resigned Immediately - Ryan Huey | Ep. 2136
What would compel a BYU student to resign from the Church immediately after graduation? Join us today as we explore this question and more with our guest, Ryan Huey.Ryan was raised in Missouri as one of six children in a very devout Mormon family. He served an LDS mission in Texas, worked as an EFY counselor, and later attended BYU–Provo. But at multiple points throughout his Mormon upbringing, th
Joseph Smith Introduces the Second Anointing - John Turner Pt. 37 | Ep. 2135
Welcome to Part 37 in our series with Dr. John Turner covering his new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”In this episode, we explore one of the most controversial and least understood rituals in early Mormonism: The Second Anointing. While Emma Smith was away, tensions continued to rise –but when she returned, the conflict between her and Joseph Smith regarding polygamy
The Biggest Book of Mormon Anachronism - Dr. John Lundwall | Ep. 2134
Today we are joined by Dr. John Lundwall (PhD, comparative myth and religion), to share what he believes is the BIGGEST anachronism in the book of Mormon – the text itself. Using his expertise in ancient religions and how they are practiced, Dr. Lundwall offers an analysis of the religious cultures that exist in the Book of Mormon and how they are inconsistent with any other ancient religious prac
Emma Goes to War with Joseph Smith over Polygamy - John Turner Pt. 36 | Ep. 2133
Welcome to Part 36 of our Joseph Smith Podcast series with Dr. John Turner covering his new book “Joseph Smith: Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”Today we are covering Chapter 28: "Anointed" that covers 1843. In this episode, we explore one of the most explosive and painful chapters in early Mormon history –Emma Smith’s direct opposition to Joseph Smith over the practice of polygamy.
"Groomed" for Mormon Motherhood Perfection - Chelsey Rencher Liaga | Ep. 2132
Joining John & Mergi Dehlin today is Chelsey Rencher Liaga, here to share her Mormon story of how she was “groomed” for Mormon motherhood, and how this hindered the development of her own mental health and self identity.Chelsey was born in Gilbert, Arizona (a heavily Mormon community) and had a typical Mormon upbringing. She suffered from perfectionism as a child, which later led to body dysmo
BYU Biology Professor William Bradshaw (Re-broadcast In Memoriam) | Ep. 2131
Following the passing of my dear friend and former BYU professor, Dr. William Bradshaw, we are honoring his life today by re-broadcasting my interview with him from 2010.The original description for this episode is as follows:"In this episode, John Dehlin interviews one of his former professors and mentors, Dr. William Bradshaw, on a wide variety of topics. Dr. Bradshaw has just recently reti
How Mormon Moms Came to Dominate American Media, Culture and Commerce - Bridget Read of New York Mag | Ep. 2130
Join us to speak with Bridget Read about her new article in New York Magazine entitled "Under the Mormon Influence: How the Women of Utah Blogged and Posted Their Way Into American Hearts and Wallets."Bridget Read has been a writer at New York Magazine since 2019 and is the author of "Little Bosses Everywhere: How the Pyramid Scheme Shaped America."If you’d like to help keep th
Sham Marriages in Joseph Smith’s Nauvoo - John Turner Pt. 35 | Ep. 2129
Welcome back to Part 35 of our series with Dr. John Turner discussing his new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”In 1843, Joseph Smith began introducing some of his closest family members – including his wife Emma Smith and his brother Hyrum Smith –to the controversial and secretive practice of plural marriage.This episode dives into one of the most complex and debated p
Perfectionistic Mormon Missionary Sent Home Early From Brazil - Debora Meireles Ling | Ep. 2128
Today, Debora Meireles Ling joins John and Margi to share her journey growing up in a deeply orthodox LDS family in Brazil, where Mormonism shaped nearly every part of her life. As a teenager, Debora felt intense pressure to live the gospel perfectly and struggled with perfectionism as she tried to meet the expectations placed on faithful members.Debora was called to serve a mission in the São Pau
Joseph Smith Pursues Teenage Girls in Nauvoo - John Turner pt 34 | Ep. 2127
Welcome back to Part 34 of our series with Dr. John G. Turner! Today we are covering most of Chapter 27 in John Turner’s new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. The chapter is called “Deep Water” and covers the year 1843.The main topic for today is polygamy.Join us as we discuss several of Joseph Smith’s wives such as Flora Woodworth, Eliza R. Snow, Sarah Ann Whitney, Lucy
What Happened to Joseph Smith’s Stone Box? - LDS Discussions Pt. 71 | Ep. 2126
In his official 1838 history, Joseph Smith described discovering the golden plates inside a carefully constructed stone box in the Hill Cumorah. According to his account, the box contained the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and a breastplate.But what happened to that stone box?In this episode of LDS Discussions, we take a deep dive into the historical record surrounding the stone box narrative. We
Seventh Day Adventism vs. Mormonism - Melissa Duge Spiers | Ep. 2149
For the first time on Mormon Stories Podcast, we’re diving into the world of Seventh-day Adventism. John sits down with Melissa Spiers, a former Seventh-day Adventist, to explore the history, beliefs, culture, and practices of the SDA Church—and to compare them with Mormonism along the way.In Part 1 of this two-part series, Melissa gives an overview of Seventh-day Adventist origins, theology, life
Chase McWhorter's Mormon Story - Secret Lives of Mormon Wives | Ep. 2125
In this deep-dive conversation, we sit down with Chase (from Hulu’s Secret Lives of Mormon Wives) to unpack his journey from a traditional Mormon upbringing in Rexburg, Idaho, to becoming entangled in one of the most talked-about TikTok scandals –and everything in between.We explore the cultural and personal pressures of growing up in the LDS Church, serving a mission, navigating marriage, and ult
The Mormon Polygamy Wars (1800's Edition) w/ Michelle Stone and Cheryl Bruno | Ep. 2124
In this in-depth discussion, Cheryl and Michelle explore one of the most controversial topics in Latter-day Saint history: polygamy. Through a structured, multi-stage presentation, they examine the origins, evidence, and ongoing debates surrounding plural marriage in early Mormonism.From figures like John C. Bennett and the Nauvoo Expositor to Emma Smith’s testimony and the role of primary sources
Celebrating Carol Lynn Pearson | Ep. 2123
Join us as we conclude Carol Lynn Pearson week on Mormon Stories Podcast!Today we have planned a celebration & Q&A with beloved author, poet, feminist, and activist Carol Lynn Pearson. We will have several guests on to share their dedications to Carol Lynn. And Barbara Brown from Signature Books will join us as we also discuss the new release of: The Diaries of Carol Lynn Pearson--Mormon A
The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy - Carol Lynn Pearson | Ep. 2122 (Re-Broadcast)
Welcome back to Carol Lynn Pearson week on Mormon Stories podcast, as we re-visit two very important interviews with a one-of-a-kind Mormon woman.Today's episode was originally recorded in 2018, when we teamed up with Sunstone to do a live recording where we discussed Pearson's book, The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy. Special thanks to the Salt Lake City Community of Christ for hosting such a
Carol Lynn Pearson – Mormon Author, Poet, Playwright, & Feminist | Ep. 2121 (Re-Broadcast)
Today, we are thrilled to kick off Carol Lynn Pearson week on Mormon Stories Podcast! Join us for the re-broadcast of two very important interviews with a one-of-a-kind Mormon woman. Then, we will close out the week by welcoming Carol Lynn Pearson back on the podcast to celebrate the release of her new book, The Diaries of Carol Lynn Pearson, where we will also be joined by the director of Signatu
Mormons Meet Bible Scholar - Bart Ehrman | Ep. 2120
Today, we are very excited to have back on the podcast Bible scholar and best selling author, Bart Ehrman! Bart has very recently retired as a professor from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and he is here with us today to “meet the Mormons” and answer questions on the Old Testament, New Testament, and even offers his professional opinions on Book of Mormon History. Bart and the pa
Another Mormon Bishop Told NOT to Report Abuser - Christopher Jenkins | Ep. 2119
In this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we speak with Christopher Jenkins, a former LDS bishop, about his personal experience with the Church’s abuse hotline. While serving as bishop in Washington, a ward member confessed abuse to him. When Christopher called the Church’s hotline for guidance, he says he was told he was not a mandatory reporter and felt pressured not to report the abuse to auth
How Joseph Smith Smeared Honest Critics - John Turner Pt. 33 | Ep. 2118
Welcome to Part 33 of our series with historian John G. Turner, based on his landmark biography Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.In this episode, we dive into Chapter 26 (titled “David”) and explore one of the most controversial patterns in Joseph Smith’s leadership: how he responded when trusted insiders became vocal critics.As pressure mounted from Missouri over the attempt
Mormon Church Hides Abuse of Wade Christofferson, Enabling More Abuse - Edward Nachel | Ep. 2117
In today's episode, Edward Nachel shares his firsthand account of serving on the High Council that excommunicated Wade Christofferson –and the guilt, questions, and reckoning that followed. Edward served in the same ward as Wade and knew him for over twenty-years.We begin with the recent arrest of Wade Christofferson and the allegations that have surfaced, including sexually coded letters and
Mormon Dad Believes, Daughter Doesn't - Katie & Matt Todd | Ep. 2116
What happens when a devoted Mormon father and his daughter –who no longer believes –sit down for an honest, loving conversation?In this powerful "bridgebuilding" episode, Matt and Katie Todd share their story of faith, doubt, and family. Matt is a lifelong Latter-day Saint. Katie began questioning the Church while attending American Heritage School in Utah County –right across from the T
Responding to Polygamy Denial - John Turner pt. 32 | Ep. 2115
Welcome to Part 32 of our series with Dr. John G Turner, based on his new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.In this episode, Dr. Turner response directly to modern claims denying Joseph Smith’s plural marriage to Sarah Ann Whitney. We revisit Chapter 26 of his book, carefully examining the historical record surrounding the 1842 letter often associated with Sarah Ann Whitn
David Archuleta’s Mormon Story | Ep. 2114
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with David Archuleta to discuss his new memoir, Devout: Losing My Faith to Find Myself. David opens up about his life inside of Mormonism, his rise to fame on American Idol, his mission, his relationship with Church leaders, and the long, painful journey toward self-acceptance as a gay man.This conversation goes far beyond headlines. David
What ExMormons Love About Mormonism - A Valentine's Day Special | Ep. 2113
In this special Valentine’s episode, we are joined by Kolby Reddish (a rando on the internet), Nemo the Mormon, Carah Burrell (from Nuancehoe), Julia Sanders from Analyzing Mormonism and John Dehlin for a conversation that might surprise you.Yes - We are critics of Mormonism.Yes - We’ve experienced pain, disillusionment, and deep deconstruction.And yet… we can hold two different truths at once.In
Joseph Smith's World on Fire in Nauvoo - John Turner pt 31 | Ep. 2112
Welcome to Part 31 in our ongoing series with Dr. John Turner, based on his new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.Today we are diving into Chapter 31, “World on Fire,” and the explosive years 1842-1843 in Nauvoo –a period marked by scandal, secrecy, political pressure, and deep internal crisis.In this episode we cover the rise and fall of John C. Bennett and the “Spiritua
My Mormon Mission in Russia Almost Broke Me - Kyson Dana | Ep. 2111
⚠️Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of violence, self-harm, suicide, and religious trauma.In this deeply vulnerable and wide-ranging conversation, Kyson Dana shares his story of growing up Mormon, serving a mission in Russia, and the lifelong psychological, spiritual, and physical consequences that followed. What was supposed to be the “best two years” of his life became the most
Relief Society Secret Polygamy & Joseph Smith's Character - John Turner Pt. 30 | Ep. 2110
Welcome to Episode 30 of our series The Joseph Smith Podcast with Dr. John Turner where we discuss chapters from his new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”In this episode, we dive further into Chapter 24 (“Upper Rooms”) from John Turner’s work and unpack the origins of the LDS Relief Society in May of 1842 –right in the middle of Joseph Smith’s secret practice of polyga
Elizabeth Smart's “Mormon” Kidnapping | Ep. 2109
A new Netflix documentary on the 2002 kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart in Salt Lake City by Brian David Mitchell and Wanda Barzee (all Mormons) has been released. To what extent was this kidnapping influenced by Joseph Smith and/or Mormonism? Join John, Samantha, Alyssa, and Taylor as they explore the Mormon connections to Elizbeth Smart's kidnapping.___________________YouTubeShow NotesAt Mormon St
Freemasonry & The Early Nauvoo Endowment Ceremony - John Turner Pt. 29 | Ep. 2108
Welcome back to our Joseph Smith Podcast series with historian Dr. John Turner!This is Episode 29, where we dive into Chapter 24, titled “Upper Rooms,” from John Turner’s new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.In this episode, we focus on Nauvoo in 1842 –a pivotal year when Freemasonry, the Relief Society, secrecy, and the earliest forms of the Nauvoo Endowment ceremony al
Italian Mormon Pioneers Leave Church - Leopoldo Larcher and Emily Guincho | Ep. 2107
On today’s episode, we welcome two very special guests! Leopoldo Larcher and Emily Guincho are a father–daughter duo here to share their Italian Mormon story as the first family to join the LDS Church in Italy.Leopoldo details his experience of quickly being placed into leadership roles and bearing the responsibility of helping establish the structure of the Church in Italy. Over the years, he wor
Where Did Joseph Smith Get the Idea for Ancient Plates? - LDS Discussions Pt. 70 | Ep. 2106
Welcome to Episode 70 of our LDS Discussions series!In this episode, our panel takes a deep dive into one of the most debated questions surrounding the Book of Mormon: were ancient metal plates a known concept in Joseph Smith’s world, and are they truly comparable to the golden plates he described?We examine historical sources from the 18th and 19th centuries that reference metal records –brass, c
From Mormon to Christian Pastor - Jean Daniel O’Donncada | Ep. 2105
In this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we talk with Jean Daniel about his journey from a devoted Mormon convert to a Christian pastor. Growing up in Boston, Jean discovered Mormonism as a teenager and found in it a strong sense of structure, identity, and belonging. He served a mission in San Diego, CA and was later married in the Newport beach temple.While studying at Harvard and Yale Divinit
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