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 Mormon Succession Crisis w/ John Turner - Brigham Young Podcast Pt. 4 | Ep. 2211
What happened to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after Joseph Smith was killed?In Part Four of our series with historical Dr. John Turner, we examine the complicated succession crisis that followed Joseph Smith’s martyrdom in 1844. Drawing from Turner’s book Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet, we explore the competing claims to leadership, the role of Joseph’s family, Sidney Rigdon’s c
Gay Mormon Bishop Comes Out! - Patrick Brady Pt 2 | Ep. 2210
In Part Two, we continue Patrick Brady and Dan Dorty’s story as Patrick becomes a Mormon bishop while privately struggling with his sexuality and his increasingly complicated relationship with Dan. Patrick discusses serving as a bishop, his approach to worthiness interviews, pornography and masturbation, the law of chastity, and his desire to create a safer environment for members of his ward. We
Being a Gay Mormon Bishop - Patrick Brady Pt. 1 | Ep. 2209
In this interview, we sit down with Patrick Brady and his partner Dan Dougherty to hear Patrick’s story of growing up as a gay man in the Mormon church, marrying a wonderful woman, raising a family, serving in church leadership, and eventually becoming a bishop while keeping a deeply important part of his identity hidden.Patrick was married to Heidi for 27 years and had four children, and he descr
Gambling Crackdown, Dan McLellan on Joe Rogan, Bisbee Case & More - Mormon News | Ep. 2208
For this week's Mormon News Podcast, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes look at Apostle D. Todd Christofferson's General Conference talk on gambling, a remarkably well-timed prediction from Latter-day Saint journalist McKay Coppins, a new documentary exploring the experiences of queer Christians, the latest development in the Bisbee abuse case, Dan McClellan, Flightless Bird and more.Months befo
Suing Marriott Hotel for Racist Book of Mormon in the U.K. - Amanda Barnett | Ep. 2207
Why would a British ex-Mormon sue a Marriott hotel over the Book of Mormon in her nightstand?Amanda Barnett grew up Mormon in Plymouth, England. Her mother and grandmother joined the church when the missionaries knocked in 1961. Most Mormon Stories guests believed for years before something fell apart. Amanda never believed at all. She was nearly four when her grandfather died, and when her family
Buddhism Changed My Life - Noah Rasheta Pt. 2 | Ep. 2206
In Part 2 of this Mormon Stories interview, John Dehlin continues his conversation with Noah Rasheta, a former Mormon who became a Buddhist teacher and a host of the Secular Buddhism podcast. After leaving Mormonism and entering what he calls “seeker mode,” Noah began exploring Buddhism –not simply as a set of beliefs, but as a practical way of understanding suffering, relationships, grief, and ev
A Mormon Buddhist? - Noah Rasheta Pt. 1 | Ep. 2205
In Part 1 of this Mormon Stories interview, John Dehlin sits down with Noah Rasheta, a former Mormon who became a Buddhist teacher and host of the Secular Buddhism podcast, to explore his journey from a deeply Mormon upbringing to a life shaped by Buddhist practice and philosophy. Noah was raised Mormon in Mexico after his parents converted to the Church when he was young. He descries growing up a
Nemo Goes Global, Mormon Stories Lawsuit Update & LDS Baby Bust - Mormon News 10.2.26 | Ep. 2204
For this week's Mormon News Podcast, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes look at Nemo the Mormon getting international attention as LADbible takes a deep dive into his excommunication from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, plus new developments in the LDS Church's lawsuit against Mormon Stories, declining Latter-day Saint birthrates, former tradwives rejecting the movement, changes
The Book of Mormon's Chiasmus Problem - LDS Discussions Pt. 84 | Ep. 2203
Does chiasmus prove that the Book of Mormon is an ancient text?In this episode of LDS Discussions, we take a closer look at one of the most frequently cited arguments for the Book of Mormon’s ancient authenticity: chiasmus. Mormon apologists have argued that the presence of complex chiastic structures demonstrates that the Book of Mormon was written by ancient Hebrew authors and could not have bee
Racist History Mormon Church Never Taught Me - Mariama Nadworna Pt. 2 | Ep. 2202
What does it mean to grow up Black and Mormon in an overwhelmingly white church?In Part One of our conversation with Mariama Nadworna, she shares her story of growing up in Sierra Leone before moving to the UK as a child. When her mother began investigating Mormonism, Mariama’s family eventually went “all in” on the church, embracing its teachings and community as they adjusted to life in a new co
Growing up Black and Mormon in the UK - Mariama Nadworna Pt. 1 | Ep. 2201
What does it mean to grow up Black and Mormon in an overwhelmingly white church?In Part One of our conversation with Mariama Nadworna, she shares her story of growing up in Sierra Leone before moving to the UK as a child. When her mother began investigating Mormonism, Mariama’s family eventually went “all in” on the church, embracing its teachings and community as they adjusted to life in a new co
LDS Retention Drop, Church Opposes Abortion Rights in Idaho, Nevada - Mormon News 9.25.26 | Ep. 2200
Today on Mormon Stories News, John and Meggan examine new Pew data on Mormon retention, the Church’s opposition to Idaho Proposition 1, questions surrounding David McConkie’s employment at BYU, a response from Suzie Greco, Elizabeth Smart’s Survivor Files, and Colorado State’s apology following anti-Mormon chants at a BYU football game.ARE MORMONS STAYING?New Pew data gives us another look at LDS
LDS Church Lawyer Speaks on Trademark Lawsuit vs. Mormon Stories - Mormon News 9.25.26 | Ep. 2199
Today on Mormon Stories News, John and Meggan examine the LDS Church attorney’s response to claims about the Mormon Stories lawsuit, new Pew data on Mormon retention, the Church’s opposition to Idaho Proposition 1, questions surrounding David McConkie’s employment at BYU, a response from Suzie Greco, Elizabeth Smart’s Survivor Files, and Colorado State’s apology following anti-Mormon chants at a B
Brigham Young Embraces Nauvoo Polygamy - The Brigham Young Podcast Pt. 3 | Ep. 2198
In this episode, we continue examining Brigham Young’s life and his increasingly central role in the development of early Mormon polygamy. Join us as we discuss John Turner’s book “Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet” with John Turner himself. Today we are discussing the chapter “The New and Everlasting Covenant.”After returning from his mission to Britain, Brigham Young encounters a Mormon movement un
Margi Dehlin on Life after Mormonism (Pt. 3 of 3 - Rec. 2016) | Ep. 686
I am incredibly pleased to re-release this 3-part interview with my wife of 33 years, Margaret (Margi) Weber Dehlin - first recorded in 2016 (a year after our excommunication from the Mormon church). I say "our" excommunication, because Margi felt that when they excommunicated me, they excommunicated our family as well.Part 1: Margi's life as a believing Mormon. This includes questions about how h
Margi Dehlin - Why and How She Left the Mormon Church (Pt. 2 of 3 - Rec. 2016) | Ep. 685
I am incredibly pleased to re-release this 3-part interview with my wife of 33 years, Margaret (Margi) Weber Dehlin - first recorded in 2016 (a year after our excommunication from the Mormon church). I say "our" excommunication, because Margi felt that when they excommunicated me, they excommunicated our family as well.Part 1: Margi's life as a believing Mormon. This includes questions about how h
Margi Dehlin's Life as a Mormon (Pt. 1 of 3 - Rec. 2016) | Ep. 684
I am incredibly pleased to re-release this 3-part interview with my wife of 33 years, Margaret (Margi) Weber Dehlin - first recorded in 2016 (a year after our excommunication from the Mormon church). I say "our" excommunication, because Margi felt that when they excommunicated me, they excommunicated our family as well.Part 1: Margi's life as a believing Mormon. This includes questions about how h
LDS Scholar Warned? 50 Million Members? Anti-Immigration? Early Marriage? - Mormon News | Ep. 2197
In today's Mormon Stories News, John and Meggan are back with six stories raising questions about LDS leadership, institutional accountability, and the future of Mormonism. We respond to Skye's criticism of our previous coverage, examine abuse survivor advocate Suzie Greco's reported warning, and unpack Elder Kevin W. Pearson's striking remarks about a future Church with 50 million
Are Mormons Paying Too Much Tithing? - LDS Discussions Pt. 83 | Ep. 2196
In Part Two of our history of tithing, we examine how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has defined tithing over time –and whether the modern expectation to pay 10% of income actually matches the historical revelation given to Joseph Smith. The 1838 revelation on tithing instructed members to give a tenth of their “surplus” property and subsequently a tenth of their “interest” annual
THRIVE Events in Rexburg, San Antonio, Boise, and St George!!!!
Four THRIVE events are coming — Rexburg, San Antonio, Boise, and St. George — and John Dehlin wants to make sure you hear about them IN ADVANCE this time.THRIVE conferences are for former and transitioning members of high-demand religions. They're about community, healing, and growth after Mormonism — meeting people who get it, picking up tools for navigating a faith crisis, and realizing you
"Idyllic" Mormons Choose Wonder - Mike And Michele Seamons Pt. 3 | Ep. 2195
In Part Three of Mike and Michele’s story, the couple begins confronting serious concerns about Mormonism as their children struggle with missions, faith, and their place in the church. Mike becomes increasingly concerned about the challenges young Mormons are facing, and struggles to work with church leadership to keep them engaged in their faith.As they discover that the church is not working fo
"Idyllic" Mormon Family - Mike And Michele Seamons Pt. 2 | Ep. 2194
We are back with Michele and Mike Seamons in part 2 of this interview with the “Idyllic” Mormon family.In part 2, they detail how their picture of the Mormon dream can come with plenty of challenges. They build and lose businesses, move across the country multiple times, and repeatedly find themselves rebuilding their lives. Through it all, they respond by doubling down on their commitment to Morm
The "Idyllic" Mormon Upbringing - Michele & Mike Seamons Pt. 1 | Ep. 2193
Today we welcome Michele and Mike Seamons to the podcast. Michele and Mike are a married couple who were both raised in the LDS faith and experienced what they describe as an “idyllic” Mormon upbringing.In Part 1, we begin with each of their backgrounds and what it was like to grow up in faithful LDS homes with supportive families, wards, and communities surrounding them. Michele was raised in San
Brigham Young Sang In Tongues - Brigham Young Podcast Pt. 2 | Ep. 2192
In the second episode of the Brigham Young Podcast, Dr. John Turner –author of Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet –joins us to explore Brigham Young’s transformation from a passionate and fiercely loyal follower of Joseph Smith into one of the most important leaders of the early Mormon movement. We follow Brigham through some of the most turbulent years of early Mormon history –from the Kirtland Safet
Megachurch Pastor Turned Agnostic - Todd Phillips Pt. 2 | Ep. 2191
What happens when a pastor can no longer believe the message he has spent his life preaching?In Part Two of our conversation with Dr. Todd Phillips, former megachurch pastor and creator of “The Deconstructed Pastor,” Todd continues his journey out of evangelical Christianity. After years of building his life around the Bible, he began confronting difficult questions surrounding his faith in the Bi
Becoming a Megachurch Pastor - Todd Phillips Pt. 1 | Ep. 2190
What would cause a megachurch pastor to lose his faith?In this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we sit down with former megachurch pastor Dr. Todd Phillips to explore his journey from a new Christian searching for a fresh start, to becoming a pastor and ministry leader, preaching to crowds of 10,000 people or more.Todd grew up without a strong religious background, but after finding Christianity
LDS Church Caught Lying, Charlie Bird Breaking Point, Bishop Charged - Mormon News 9.4.26 | Ep. 2189
On today’s episode of Mormon News, Meggan and John break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Charlie Bird says he is pulling back from sharing his journey to fatherhood after receiving horrific messages about his future family, including messages invoking LDS teachings. We look at the broader Mormon conversation surrounding Charlie and Ryan
The Brigham Young Podcast with John Turner - Pt. 1 | Ep. 2188
In this new series on Mormon Stories Podcast, we’re joined once again by historian Dr. John Turner to take an in-depth look at one of the most important –and complicated –figures in Mormon history: Brigham Young. Dr. Turner is the author of Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet, his acclaimed 2012 biography of the second president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. John was r
Bloomberg Exposes Mormon Land Empire, Baseball Baptisms & More - Mormon News 8.28.26 | Ep. 2187
For this weeks Mormon News Podcast, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes dig into what Bloomberg uncovered about the Church's growing real estate empire, plus warnings about "baseball baptisms" and the push for convert growth, concerns about the Church's new Sunday meeting schedule, the sentencing of a polygamous sect leader, and a new LDS strategy for bringing nonmembers into local mee
Can Nauvoo Land Deeds Really Prove Polygamy? - LDS Discussions Pt. 82 | Ep. 2186
What can Nauvoo land deeds actually tell us about Joseph Smith and the practice of plural marriage? In this episode of LDS Discussions, we take a close look at Nauvoo land records and examine claims that deeds issued to women –including women who were later identified as plural wives of Joseph Smith –provide evidence for Joseph Smith’s practice of polygamy. The records are fascinating, but they ar
A Gay Mormon's Path to Peace - Eli McCann | Ep. 2185
What happens when you spend your life trying to find your way in a religion that never seems to have a space for you? Today, Mormon Stories welcomes Eli McCann, attorney, writer, podcaster, and humor columnist for The Salt Lake Tribune, to hear insights into his upbringing as a gay man in the LDS faith.Eli knew from a young age that he was gay, but understood that there would never be a place for
LDS Church Can't Keep its Members - Mormon News 8.21.26 | Ep. 2184
This week on Mormon News, Dr. John Dehlin and Nemo the Mormon get stuck into the dramatic headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over the past 7 days.From a shooting at a funeral to the surprise re-emergence of Tim Ballard’s OUR, this is your one stop shop for Mormon News every week.___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and chall
The History of Tithing - LDS Discussions Pt. 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
Mormon Church Guilty of Securities Fraud? - 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. 2158
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
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