Mormon Stories Podcast

In Part 4 of our deep-dive podcast series with historian Dr. John G. Turner, we explore one of the most debated questions in Latter-day Saint history: Did Joseph Smith actually use the golden plates to translate the Book of Mormon?We also cover the roles of Oliver Cowdery and Martin Harris, Cowdery’s relationship to the Smiths, the use of seer stones and divining rods, and the complex origins of LDS priesthood authority. This episode covers chapter five in John G. Turner’s new book titled Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet, revealing new perspectives on how the Book of Mormon was produced and what was happening behind the scenes.Topics include:Joseph’s poverty and early strugglesMartin Harris’ doubts and dedicationTranslation methods and spiritual toolsPriesthood revelations and baptismsInternal conflicts and legacyDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy thoughtful conversations on religious history.___________________ Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:⁠⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠Venmo⁠⁠ Our Platforms:⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ Social Media:⁠⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Discord⁠⁠ Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2025

In Part 4 of our deep-dive podcast series with historian Dr. John G. Turner, we explore one of the most debated questions in Latter-day Saint history: Did Joseph Smith actually use the golden plates to translate the Book of Mormon?We also cover the roles of Oliver Cowdery and Martin Harris, Cowdery’s relationship to the Smiths, the use of seer stones and divining rods, and the complex origins of LDS priesthood authority. This episode covers chapter five in John G. Turner’s new book titled Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet, revealing new perspectives on how the Book of Mormon was produced and what was happening behind the scenes.Topics include:Joseph’s poverty and early strugglesMartin Harris’ doubts and dedicationTranslation methods and spiritual toolsPriesthood revelations and baptismsInternal conflicts and legacyDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy thoughtful conversations on religious history.___________________ Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:⁠⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠Venmo⁠⁠ Our Platforms:⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ Social Media:⁠⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Discord⁠⁠ Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2025

In this powerful, raw, and emotional conversation, Nathan Hinckley and his daughter Kayli open up about their journey through Mormonism — from deep devotion to painful disillusionment — and how faith, family, and unexpected truths collided at one of the most sacred moments: Kayli’s wedding.From early seminary mornings and dreams of the Celestial Kingdom to patriarchal blessings, church culture clashes, and a heartbreaking faith crisis — this interview pulls no punches. Nathan, a once-devoted bishop and father, shares how his spiritual unraveling sent shockwaves through his family, culminating in a moment that changed everything at his daughter's temple wedding.How do you break the news to your family that you no longer believe — when your whole life has been built around it?How did Kayli handle growing up as a “perfect Mormon girl,” only to find herself questioning it all before adulthood?Topics explored:-Growing up Mormon in Tennessee-Spiritual perfectionism & scrupulosity-Patriarchal expectations vs self-identity-Leaving the Church and breaking generational cycles-Family dynamics around faith, control, and truth 00:00:00 Introduction00:04:41 How the Hinckley’s end up in Tennessee00:22:29 Kayli’s upbringing on “the compound” also called “The Mormon Holler” by non-members00:26:15 Mormon garment mindset and wearing bikinis00:36:10 Kayli learning the word “feminist”00:42:45 Scrupulosity around beauty and appearance or just the rules?01:07:56 Persecution complex, throwing rocks at a tree01:22:00 Getting her patriarchal blessing01:27:49 Dating non-members and finding a husband01:46:45 How was Kayli’s testimony during this time?01:57:03 Still born sister that she wanted to see in heaven02:04:16 Nathan losing his testimony02:13:40 Nathan was asked to take a survey for the Church on the Gospel Topics Essays02:27:30 Nathan struggles with his testimony02:36:17 Kayli goes down the rabbit hole while parents on vacation02:39:59 I was one person before, and in the next moment I was a different person02:50:38 Why didn’t Nathan just hide it or fake it02:55:51 Nathan began writing and posting things publicly 03:01:01 Kayli removed her name from the Church pretty quickly03:05:26 “An Old Friend of Mine” song03:14:30 How did Ethan respond to Kayli’s deep dive into the church?___________________ YouTubeShow Notes Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 9 June 2025

Welcome to part three of the Joseph Smith Podcast! In this episode, we explore one of the most pivotal and mysterious events in early Mormon history — the story of Martin and Lucy Harris and the infamous loss of the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript. With historian and non-Latter-day Saint scholar John G. Turner, we dive into the complexities of translation, belief, and the relationships that shaped the early Restoration movement. We also examine:- The discovery of the plates- Martin Harris’ background and motives- Lucy Harris’ suspicions and possible involvement- The cultural and religious context of the time- Theories about the Book of Mormon translation process- What the loss of the 116 pages reveals about Joseph Smith’s prophetic development This episode also reflects on broader themes of faith, deception, historical interpretation, and the psychology behind religious movements. Whether you're a believer, skeptic, or historian, this deep-dive provides rich insight from a non-Mormon perspective.___________________ YouTubeShow Notes Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Published: 5 June 2025

Welcome to part three of the Joseph Smith Podcast! In this episode, we explore one of the most pivotal and mysterious events in early Mormon history — the story of Martin and Lucy Harris and the infamous loss of the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript. With historian and non-Latter-day Saint scholar John G. Turner, we dive into the complexities of translation, belief, and the relationships that shaped the early Restoration movement.We also examine:- The discovery of the plates- Martin Harris’ background and motives- Lucy Harris’ suspicions and possible involvement- The cultural and religious context of the time- Theories about the Book of Mormon translation process- What the loss of the 116 pages reveals about Joseph Smith’s prophetic developmentThis episode also reflects on broader themes of faith, deception, historical interpretation, and the psychology behind religious movements. Whether you're a believer, skeptic, or historian, this deep-dive provides rich insight from a non-Mormon perspective.___________________YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2025

Lindsay and Todd McCormick, a couple from Knoxville, Tennessee, share their powerful and emotional journey navigating faith, doubt, and community pressure within the LDS Church. From their musical Mormon upbringing and successful business ventures to being threatened twice with excommunication, this interview dives deep into the cost of questioning and choosing authenticity over conformity. They open up about their faith crisis, the controversial City Creek Mall, navigating parenthood in the church, and ultimately, their heartbreaking experience with betrayal from close friends and leaders. Through all of it, their love for each other and desire for truth remained steadfast. Topics include:-Faith deconstruction and polygamy-Church discipline and double standards-Excommunication threats and “apostasy”-Cultural expectations, identity, and healing-Choosing honesty over fear in Mormonism-Watch their raw and courageous story unfold. Contact Information:Lindsay on FacebookLindsay on Instagram Todd on FacebookTodd on Instagram PhotobarnLindsay's Photo Business___________________ YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:⁠⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠Venmo⁠⁠ Our Platforms:⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ Social Media:⁠⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Discord⁠⁠ Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025

In this second episode exploring Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet by John G. Turner, we dive into Chapters 2 and 3, covering Joseph Smith's evolving accounts of the First Vision, early controversies, treasure digging escapades, and his transformation into a religious leader. We discuss historical inconsistencies, cultural influences, and Turner's critical conclusions about Smith's experiences and motivations. Based on Chapters 2 & 3 of John G. Turner’s book, topics include: The First Vision's late emergence and conflicting versions Treasure digging and supernatural claims The influence of revivalist culture Early church documents and evolving theology Turner's secular interpretation of Joseph Smith’s story___________________ YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

In this second episode exploring Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet by John G. Turner, we dive into Chapters 2 and 3, covering Joseph Smith's evolving accounts of the First Vision, early controversies, treasure digging escapades, and his transformation into a religious leader. We discuss historical inconsistencies, cultural influences, and Turner's critical conclusions about Smith's experiences and motivations. Based on Chapters 2 & 3 of John G. Turner’s book, topics include: The First Vision's late emergence and conflicting versions Treasure digging and supernatural claims The influence of revivalist culture Early church documents and evolving theology Turner's secular interpretation of Joseph Smith’s story___________________ YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

Brooke is returning to Mormon Stories Podcast after 13 years, when she and her husband came on as the first couple to be interviewed on the podcast. Brooke’s husband at the time, John McLay was a CES employee who lost his faith while working for the church. It was an epic Mormon Stories interview, and we are excited to hear what Brooke has been up to since. We will hear about how Brooke has rebuilt her life and career after a divorce, and how her life has been impacted by sharing her story in such a public way.___________________ YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2025

Brooke is returning to Mormon Stories Podcast after 13 years, when she and her husband came on as the first couple to be interviewed on the podcast. Brooke’s husband at the time, John McLay was a CES employee who lost his faith while working for the church. It was an epic Mormon Stories interview, and we are excited to hear what Brooke has been up to since. We will hear about how Brooke has rebuilt her life and career after a divorce, and how her life has been impacted by sharing her story in such a public way.___________________ YouTubeShow Notes Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2025

Today we are rebroadcasting an older, classic, episode of Mormon Stories from 2012!In this episode we interview John and Brooke McLay. John served for 14 years as an employee of the LDS Church Education System (CES). In this capacity he served as: a seminary teacher and principal, an institute teacher and director, a BYU Education Week speaker and an EFY Director. John also served as a member of a stake high council, and was serving in a bishopric during the months leading up to his decision to leave the LDS Church. John and Brooke resigned their membership of the LDS Church in August of 2011.  This is their story.Join us in the next episode where we re-interview Brooke Lark!___________________ YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

Join us for the very first episode of a new podcast called Joseph Smith: The Podcast - with Dr. John G. Turner.___________________YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

Katherine Bernard (KB) Olsen is a never-mo (never Mormon) — but also one of the most devoted fans of Mormon Stories Podcast. A queer, secular journalist with deep Jewish roots and a high-fashion pedigree, Katherine has spent over 20 years captivated by the LDS Church — despite never being religious herself. In her first-ever full-length interview about her life story, she opens up about her lifelong curiosity with Mormonism, identity, belief, and American culture. KB's impressive journalism career includes work at Vogue, New York Times, and other top-tier New York publications. After moving from Maryland to attend NYU for journalism, she found herself drawn not only to art and culture — but also to spirituality, history, and the paradoxes of organized religion. Over the years, her interest in Mormonism became a deep and serious intellectual pursuit. What You'll Hear in This Interview:-Her upbringing in a secular household in Maryland-Her exploration of Jewish identity and eventual conversion-Her first exposure to Mormonism through South Park, Big Love, and The Book of Mormon musical-Her emotional journey coming out as gay in a non-supportive environment-Her reflections on shame, logic, identity, and community-Her nuanced take on Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon, and Mormon reality TV-Her insights into conditioning, religious extremism, and spiritual seeking This episode is a masterclass in curiosity — how someone with no personal ties to the LDS Church became one of its most thoughtful outside observers. KB explores Mormonism not as a critic or a believer, but as a seeker with a journalist’s eye. Watch this episode on YouTube here.___________________ Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:⁠⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠Venmo⁠⁠ Our Platforms:⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ Social Media:⁠⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Discord⁠⁠ Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

Katherine Bernard (KB) Olsen is a never-mo (never Mormon) — but also one of the most devoted fans of Mormon Stories Podcast. A queer, secular journalist with deep Jewish roots and a high-fashion pedigree, Katherine has spent over 20 years captivated by the LDS Church — despite never being religious herself. In her first-ever full-length interview about her life story, she opens up about her lifelong curiosity with Mormonism, identity, belief, and American culture. KB's impressive journalism career includes work at Vogue, New York Times, and other top-tier New York publications. After moving from Maryland to attend NYU for journalism, she found herself drawn not only to art and culture — but also to spirituality, history, and the paradoxes of organized religion. Over the years, her interest in Mormonism became a deep and serious intellectual pursuit. What You'll Hear in This Interview:-Her upbringing in a secular household in Maryland-Her exploration of Jewish identity and eventual conversion-Her first exposure to Mormonism through South Park, Big Love, and The Book of Mormon musical-Her emotional journey coming out as gay in a non-supportive environment-Her reflections on shame, logic, identity, and community-Her nuanced take on Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon, and Mormon reality TV-Her insights into conditioning, religious extremism, and spiritual seeking This episode is a masterclass in curiosity — how someone with no personal ties to the LDS Church became one of its most thoughtful outside observers. KB explores Mormonism not as a critic or a believer, but as a seeker with a journalist’s eye. Watch this episode on YouTube here.___________________ Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:⁠⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠Venmo⁠⁠ Our Platforms:⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ Social Media:⁠⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Discord⁠⁠ Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

Join Natasha Helfer, Chelsea Homer, and Alyssa Witbeck as we review Episodes 1-4 of Season 2 of the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives...where we answer the questions: What is Mormon soft swinging, and is that really a thing? Show Notes___________________</p><p><a href="https://www.mormonstories.org/mormon-historian-admits-issues-in-ces-letter/">Show Notes</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_T13dVy3izM">YouTube</a></p><p><br></p><p>Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!</p><p>Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:</p><ul> <li><a href="https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m">One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories">Support us on Patreon</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/mormonstories">PayPal</a></li>  <li><a href="https://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories">Venmo</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Our Platforms:</p><ul>  <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/mormonstories?sub_confirmation=1">YouTube</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories">Patreon</a></li>  <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4sDzk7dRjODTSEqzZKZJzk?si=148b0efc1ccc4404">Spotify</a></li>  <li><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mormon-stories-lds/id312094772">Apple Podcasts</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Contact us:<br>[email protected]<br>PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117</p><p><br></p><p>Social Media:</p><ul>  <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mormstories">Insta: @mormstories</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonstoriespodcast">TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast</a></li>  <li><a href="https://discord.com/invite/kuX5p6yyjF">Join the Discord</a></li></ul>

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025

Please join us Thursday evening at 6pm Utah time for a call-in show discussing the topic of "Are Mormons Christian?"This is part 2 of a weekly call-in show format that we are experimenting with.If you would like to join the show, please observe the following:1) Come prepared with a ONE MINUTE comment or question on the topic for the panelists to discuss. This is NOT the format to tell your moment story. If the panelists want to follow up with more questions they will do so.2) Please make sure that when you enter StreamYard your video and audio are fully enabled or you will not be added to the conversation.3) When you join, please share in the StreamYard group chat your comment or question so it can be considered by the moderators.4) The StreamYard link will be pinned as a YouTube comment at the beginning of the show.5) If you have a video comment or question that you want to share before the show airs, please send it to: [email protected], and please consider posting it to TikTok and tagging it #mormonstorieslive.Show Notes for this episode can be found on the Mormon Stories Blog here. ___________________Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox Support us on Patreon  PayPal  Venmo Our Platforms:  YouTube  Patreon  Spotify  Apple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:  Insta: @mormstories  TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast  Join the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

In this deeply moving and raw interview, Jennie shares her powerful life story—from growing up in a strict Mormon household to breaking free from the expectations that shaped her identity. She opens up about her parents’ conversions, her challenging marriage, the emotional toll of purity culture, and her gradual disillusionment with the church.Jennie also recounts the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Izzy, and how grief reshaped her spirituality and perspective on life. Through it all, she finds resilience, healing, and the courage to choose herself.A story of love, loss, faith, and transformation you won't forget.Topics Include:-Childhood in a devout LDS family-Marriage, purity culture, and incompatibilities in marriage -Crisis of faith and discovering church history-Navigating grief after the loss of her daughterSubscribe for more real stories about faith, loss, and rebuilding. Watch this episode on YouTube here.___________________</p><p><a href="https://www.mormonstories.org/mormon-historian-admits-issues-in-ces-letter/">Show Notes</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_T13dVy3izM">YouTube</a></p><p><br></p><p>Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!</p><p>Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:</p><ul> <li><a href="https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m">One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories">Support us on Patreon</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/mormonstories">PayPal</a></li>  <li><a href="https://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories">Venmo</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Our Platforms:</p><ul>  <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/mormonstories?sub_confirmation=1">YouTube</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories">Patreon</a></li>  <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4sDzk7dRjODTSEqzZKZJzk?si=148b0efc1ccc4404">Spotify</a></li>  <li><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mormon-stories-lds/id312094772">Apple Podcasts</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Contact us:<br>[email protected]<br>PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117</p><p><br></p><p>Social Media:</p><ul>  <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mormstories">Insta: @mormstories</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonstoriespodcast">TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast</a></li>  <li><a href="https://discord.com/invite/kuX5p6yyjF">Join the Discord</a></li></ul>

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025

In this emotional and deeply honest episode, Eve and her parents, Neal and Christa, share their powerful story of faith, devotion, awakening, and transformation. Raised in a multi-generational Mormon household, Eve and her family lived and breathed the teachings of the LDS Church—until the cracks began to show.From Neal’s time as a bishop and Christa’s strong belief in Mormon womanhood, to Eve’s mission and eventual faith transition, this conversation explores:The impact of religious upbringing and cultural expectationsThe emotional toll of unaddressed questions and historical issuesHow Gospel Topics Essays, polyandry, and the church’s lack of transparency triggered a faith crisisEve’s pivotal role in helping her parents deconstruct their beliefsThe cost—and freedom—of walking awayHeartfelt, raw, and eye-opening, this interview shines a light on the complexity of leaving a high-demand religion and finding connection, purpose, and joy on the other side.___________________</p><p><a href="https://www.mormonstories.org/mormon-historian-admits-issues-in-ces-letter/">Show Notes</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_T13dVy3izM">YouTube</a></p><p><br></p><p>Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!</p><p>Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:</p><ul> <li><a href="https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m">One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories">Support us on Patreon</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/mormonstories">PayPal</a></li>  <li><a href="https://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories">Venmo</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Our Platforms:</p><ul>  <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/mormonstories?sub_confirmation=1">YouTube</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories">Patreon</a></li>  <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4sDzk7dRjODTSEqzZKZJzk?si=148b0efc1ccc4404">Spotify</a></li>  <li><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mormon-stories-lds/id312094772">Apple Podcasts</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Contact us:<br>[email protected]<br>PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117</p><p><br></p><p>Social Media:</p><ul>  <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mormstories">Insta: @mormstories</a></li>  <li><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonstoriespodcast">TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast</a></li>  <li><a href="https://discord.com/invite/kuX5p6yyjF">Join the Discord</a></li></ul>

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

Join us as we revisit this epic interview with John Dehlin and Carah Burrell, which originally aired on Carah's channel in 2023.Eve, a good friend of Carah Burrell's, was an active and faithful member of the LDS Church at the time of this interview. She had begun to question aspects of the Church—particularly polygamy—and agreed to sit down with Carah and John for a truly unique conversation. In this interview, they simply presented her with factual information about LDS history and captured her real-time reactions.This one-of-a-kind interview is now being shared on Mormon Stories Podcast for the very first time. Be sure to join us later this week as Eve returns to the podcast—this time with both of her parents, who have experienced their own faith journeys since Eve's original interview two years ago. Watch this episode on YouTube ⁠here⁠.Watch the original video from Carah Burrell here. And Part 1 of this series can be found here.Show Notes:Gospel Topics essay on plural marriage from LDS church:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays/plural-marriage-in-kirtland-and-nauvoo?lang=engAddress of the Prophet: His Testimony Against the Dissenters at Nauvoo: https://faenrandir.github.io/a_careful_examination/joseph-smith-testimony-against-dissenters-at-nauvoo/In Sacred Loneliness book: https://tinyurl.com/bddecykbNo Man Knows My History book: https://tinyurl.com/4ux8kn8sRough Stone Rolling: https://tinyurl.com/yc4c9yseCouncil of Fifty: https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/topic/council-of-fiftyGov Ford/Joseph Smith letters: https://byustudies.byu.edu/content/volume-6-chapter-27History of the Church books: https://byustudies.byu.edu/history-of-the-church-volumes-1-7/"Who Killled Joseph Smith" from LDS church: https://history.churchofjesuschrist.org/content/museum/museum-treasures-powder-horn?lang=engMormon Stories interview with Todd Compton: https://mormonstories.org/podcast/mormon-stories-012-an-introduction-to-mormon-polygamy-with-todd-compton-part-1/Explanation of the Happiness Letter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oFsXvlcHRoMormon Stories 1498: THE LIFE OF HISTORIAN FAWN MCKAY BRODIE WITH NEWELL BRINGHURST: https://mormonstories.org/podcast/life-of-fawn-brodie-with-newell-bringhurst/Text of the Nauvoo Expositor: http://solomonspalding.com/docs/exposit1.htmNetflix documentary Wild Wild Country: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wild_Wild_Country ___________________At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals. Our overall mission is to:Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theologySupport Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisisPromote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: ⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠Venmo⁠ Our Platforms:⁠YouTube⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ Social Media:⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠Join the Discord Contact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

Join us for our first live video call-in show. The topic: "What do Mormons Believe About God?" We will be briefly reviewing my essay that can be found here: https://johndehlin.substack.com/p/what-do-mormons-believe-about-godThen we would love some of our audience to join us to discuss any of the following topics:- What they were taught as Mormons about God.- What they think about the Mormon version of God.- What they believe about God.We will be joined by dear friends Kolby and Cam Reddish.

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

In this powerful continuation of our interview with Ben and Justine, we explore their raw and honest journey from deep devotion in the LDS Church to personal awakening, heartbreak, and healing.They share how their relationship grew during Justine’s school years, navigating early marriage, financial and gender-role challenges, and the burden of trying to live up to faith-based ideals. From motherhood identity struggles to confronting doctrinal issues and discovering their voices during a faith crisis, this episode is full of vulnerable, eye-opening moments.Highlights include:Gender roles & pressure in MormonismThe cost of silence during a faith crisisThe CES Letter, LDS Discussions & uncovering hard truthsHealing from betrayal, rebuilding marriage & reconnecting with familyTheir plea for empathy from believing membersWhether you're in faith, out of faith, or somewhere in between—this is a story about agency, partnership, and finding truth together. Show NotesWatch this episode on YouTube here.___________________At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals. Our overall mission is to:Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theologySupport Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisisPromote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms: YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:  Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2025

In this episode, Ben and Justine share their powerful and emotional journeys through Mormonism, immigration, family trauma, and healing. They discuss Ben's family's escape from political turmoil, their struggles with loss, and the lure of the Mormon doctrine of eternal families.Ben faces racial and cultural challenges within the Church, battles self-worth issues, and grapples with the harm purity culture and missionary service caused.Justine recounts her own upbringing in a strict Mormon household, the pressure of modesty culture, and the way Mormon ideals shaped her relationships and sense of self. Together, they reflect on how they met, the impact of internalized racism, and their path toward authenticity, healing, and love — even as they confront the pain Mormonism left behind.This is part 1 of a very special two-part Mormon Stories interview.___________________At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals. Our overall mission is to: Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theologySupport Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisisPromote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms: YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

In this powerful follow-up conversation, Britt Hartley returns to explore 10 practical and emotional steps to take during your faith deconstruction journey. From embracing anger and grief, to rediscovering your identity, setting boundaries, and finding peace in the unknown—this episode is a guide to healing, growth, and transformation.Whether you're newly questioning or deep in the process, these insights will help you navigate deconstruction with compassion and clarity.Topics include:Grieving your old beliefsEmbracing uncertaintyInner child & shadow workBuilding authentic communitySetting loving boundariesLearning to just be Join us as we unpack the deep emotional layers of deconstruction and the tools that can truly support your journey. ___________________ At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.   Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions 🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor todayOne-time or recurring donations: https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories Paypal: https://paypal.me/mormonstories  Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6OgmoqJbOVRq-Lv1P7SzA/join Our Platforms:🌐Mormon Stories Blog: https://www.mormonstories.org/episodes 🎙️Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories ✳️Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4sDzk7dRjODTSEqzZKZJzk?si=148b0efc1ccc4404&nd=1 🍎Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mormon-stories-lds/id312094772 🖼️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mormstories 📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonstoriespodcast 🎮Discord: https://discord.com/invite/kuX5p6yyjF  Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

Jennifer Wilson shares her deeply personal journey from growing up in a devout Mormon family to questioning, deconstructing, and ultimately leaving her faith. She opens up about her family's polygamist history, her mission experience, marriage, leadership roles in the church, and the struggles that came with navigating faith transitions. From grappling with church expectations to finding newfound freedom and clarity, Jennifer reflects on how this journey has reshaped her identity, marriage, and parenting.Key Topics Covered: Growing up in a Mormon household & family history, missionary experiences & gender expectations in the church, marriage, motherhood & church leadership roles, doubts, faith crisis & leaving the church, Raising kids outside of Mormonism & rediscovering identity.Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about faith, change, and self-discovery. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!___________________At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals. Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor todayOne-time or recurring donations: https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories Paypal: https://paypal.me/mormonstories Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6OgmoqJbOVRq-Lv1P7SzA/joinOur Platforms:🌐Mormon Stories Blog: https://www.mormonstories.org/episodes 🎙️Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories ✳️Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4sDzk7dRjODTSEqzZKZJzk?si=148b0efc1ccc4404&nd=1 🍎Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mormon-stories-lds/id312094772 🖼️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mormstories 📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonstoriespodcast 🎮Discord: https://discord.com/invite/kuX5p6yyjF Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

In this episode, we explore 10 common pitfalls people face during religious deconstruction. From navigating relationships and parenting outside of organized religion to the challenges of psychedelics, intellectualism, and identity loss—this is a raw, honest conversation about life after faith. Whether you're just beginning your journey or deep in it, this discussion offers insight, validation, and guidance.Key topics covered:Why opening your marriage right after leaving religion may backfireHow to provide structure for your kids without religionThe psychedelic trap & chasing spiritual highsThe “missionary phase” of ex-belief systemsFinding meaning beyond religion, without clinging to new dogmasThe lifelong process of deconstructionAnd much more, including Gen Z dating, chakras, free will, and dreamsDon’t miss her reflections on what she’s learned, what to avoid, and how to move forward with integrity and openness. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

After demonizing and sexualizing women's shoulders for almost two centuries, the Mormon church recently altered its garments for women to allow the showing of women's shoulders. Today a panel of Mormon women discuss the changes.

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

In Part 2 of our story, Kyle opens up about his life growing up in the Two by Twos faith — from a childhood shaped by pressure to "uphold the family name," to navigating chronic illness and suppressing his passions for music and basketball in order to prioritize church. We talk about the expectations around professing young, the control over dating, marriage, and even parenting — including the harmful encouragement of corporal punishment.As cracks began to form during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kyle and Kari found themselves questioning everything they believed. From hidden doubts, religious trauma, and Kari’s journey of discovering her bisexuality, to the couple’s darkest moments and eventual transformation, this episode dives deep into how they began rebuilding their lives outside the 2x2 world.We also discuss the emerging abuse allegations within the Two by Twos church, the beginnings of their Ex-Two by Two support group, and the broader fight for transparency and accountability in a faith that claims to have no organization at all. This is a raw, emotional, and revealing chapter of their deconstruction journey. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

In Part 2 of our story, Kyle opens up about his life growing up in the Two by Twos faith — from a childhood shaped by pressure to "uphold the family name," to navigating chronic illness and suppressing his passions for music and basketball in order to prioritize church. We talk about the expectations around professing young, the control over dating, marriage, and even parenting — including the harmful encouragement of corporal punishment.As cracks began to form during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kyle and Kari found themselves questioning everything they believed. From hidden doubts, religious trauma, and Kari’s journey of discovering her bisexuality, to the couple’s darkest moments and eventual transformation, this episode dives deep into how they began rebuilding their lives outside the 2x2 world.We also discuss the emerging abuse allegations within the Two by Twos church, the beginnings of their Ex-Two by Two support group, and the broader fight for transparency and accountability in a faith that claims to have no organization at all. This is a raw, emotional, and revealing chapter of their deconstruction journey. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

Kari & Kyle Hanks share their journey of leaving the secretive 2x2 church, a religious group with no official name, written doctrine, or corporate structure. They discuss their upbringings, struggles with faith, the exclusivity of the religion, and the trauma they endured. From discovering the church’s hidden history to creating a support group for ex-members, they expose abuse scandals, strict doctrines on women, and emotional suppression within the group. Their deconstruction was influenced by the Mormon Stories Podcast, COVID-19, and personal revelations about belief, identity, and autonomy. Now, they advocate for informed consent and support those leaving high-control religions.Show NotesYouTube 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:40 Kari & Kyle introduce themselves and the Two by Twos group 00:14:04 They do not have a written doctrine, it is all word of mouth 00:21:59 The founding of Two by Two - founded by William Irving 00:28:28 It wasn’t until 1905 that the group started preaching exclusivity 00:37:52 Irving is kicked out of the church, although some still stay loyal to him. Another splinter group. 00:49:50 Three meetings a week 01:00:46 Background of their theology/doctrine 01:09:02 Discussion of Heaven & Hell 01:17:04 Kari’s background in the church 01:23:17 Growing up as a 2x2 girl 01:30:30 How does the group refer to themselves? 01:38:43 Never having the language to describe her feelings or sexuality 01:42:09 Higher education was discouraged for many, especially women 01:54:17 Emotional manipulation in high demand religions 02:24:47 2x2s very politically conservative, but are not typically involved politically 02:27:08 When did she start to think she was in a cult? Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2025

After five years of reflection, Kate opens up about her journey growing up in a strict Mormon household, serving a mission in Argentina, and working for the LDS Church. She shares pivotal moments of doubt, her experiences in church administration, and the troubling realities she uncovered in the Confidential Records department. From questioning church discipline policies to witnessing firsthand how the institution handles abuse cases, Kate's story reveals the struggles and insights that ultimately led her to leave the church. Join us as she discusses faith, disillusionment, and life after Mormonism.Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2025

On March 12, 2025, Church educator and BYU professor Jared Halverson released an Instagram short where he stated: “One of the statistics that has worried me the most of late, comes from a survey that was done in 2023 and it’s suggesting that for the first time that I can think of, more women are leaving religion than men are.” Is this true? Why are more women leaving Mormonism than men are? Join us today as we gather with Katie Rich (author of Fifty Years of Exponent II), Amy McPhie Allebest (of the Breaking Down Patriarchy YouTube channel), and Abby Maxwell Hansen (who was threatened with excommunication for her profile on Ordain Women in 2013 and an Exponent II blogger since 2019), as well as writer and columnist Jana Riess to discuss this growing phenomenon.Jared Halverson is an associate professor of Ancient Scriptures and served for over 20 years in the Church Education System. Halverson earned his BA in History and MA in Religious Education. He has been a featured speaker in devotionals as well as in academic settings. He is the host of the YouTube channel and podcast titled “Unshaken.”You can view Jared Halverson’s original video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TevsIrw1nqsShow Notes: https://www.mormonstories.org/why-are-women-leaving-the-mormon-church/

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

Today we are re-introducing Sandra Tanner to a new generation of Mormons, exMormons, and never-Mormons. Both Sandra and her husband Jerald have strong Mormon backgrounds. When he was only eighteen, Jerald began to have doubts about his faith. When they began dating, Sandra Tanner also began to doubt. Throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s Jerald and Sandra Tanner were among the first to begin publishing on the problems with Mormon history and its truth claims. They opened a bookstore called the Utah Lighthouse Ministry and began publishing their research. Today we are going to talk about their discoveries on topics such as changes to the Book of Mormon, the problems with the Book of Abraham translation, the Kinderhook plates, how the Church covered up problematic parts of its history, and how they impacted hundreds of people in and out of the Mormon church. You won’t want to miss this episode!___________________ Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

Today we are re-introducing Sandra Tanner to a new generation of Mormons, exMormons, and never-Mormons. Both Sandra and her husband Jerald have strong Mormon backgrounds. When he was only eighteen, Jerald began to have doubts about his faith. When they began dating, Sandra Tanner also began to doubt. Throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s Jerald and Sandra Tanner were among the first to begin publishing on the problems with Mormon history and its truth claims. They opened a bookstore called the Utah Lighthouse Ministry and began publishing their research. Today we are going to talk about their discoveries on topics such as changes to the Book of Mormon, the problems with the Book of Abraham translation, the Kinderhook plates, how the Church covered up problematic parts of its history, and how they impacted hundreds of people in and out of the Mormon church. You won’t want to miss this episode! Show NotesYouTube00:04:00 Topics we are going to cover today00:05:24 Changes to the text of the Book of Mormon00:25:40 The usage of the seer stone and an “exact” translation00:32:00 The Book of Mormon as a revelation rather than a translation 00:33:45 Problems with the Book of Abraham translation00:49:12 The Church came up with the Catalyst Theory00:54:00 The Kinderhook Plates issues01:14:10 Other “Cover-ups” that the church has done01:28:00 Nephi vs. Moroni 01:31:55 Changes to D&C01:38:10 Discussion of Michelle Stone’s claims & Sandra’s response01:54:55 “We felt the obligation to set the record straight”01:59:00 How does Sandra respond to critics that say she should continue to deconstruct Christianity02:25:20 ConclusionMormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

After being inspired by the Mormon Stories Paul brothers episode, Dave courageously shares his powerful journey through faith, family struggles, and self-discovery. From his upbringing in a traditional Mormon household to navigating complex questions about church history, LGBTQ+ issues, and personal loss, Dave's story is one of resilience and hope. He reflects on his brother's tragic passing, his evolving beliefs, and why he ultimately chooses to stay active in the church today. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about faith, doubt, and finding meaning through it all. Show NotesYouTube 00:03:12 Dave’s intention for coming on Mormon Stories00:08:03 Dave’s mormon story begins - explaining family background00:13:41 Story of backpacking with his brother and having an accident00:24:46 Dave’s mission to Warsaw, Poland00:34:50 Life after his mission - dating and marriage01:01:05 Dave’s experience with a Roman Catholic woman that inspired him - introduced him to interracial marriage01:13:30 Dave thought “If I remain silent now, I am a hypocrite to my own testimony” (regarding his friend leaving the church)01:21:04 Why do we call it going down the rabbit hole when it is actually coming out into the light?01:45:00 “Does God help amputees?” argument02:00:50 “There has to be recognition that what we were taught was not the truth”02:17:30 Why John Dehlin does Mormon Stories02:46:17 Elder Holland “greatest missionary of all time” experience02:59:55 Dave discusses the Book of Mormon03:36:44 Dave’s younger brother, Dan, passed away in 202303:44:19 What are the main reasons that he chooses to stay active in 2025?04:01:26 What is his response to the fact that the church does a lot of harm to people as well? How does he personally work through this04:11:30 Dave feels that there are real advancements being made in the church currently04:20:24 Conclusion Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

In this episode, we’re joined by historian and mapmaker John Hamer as he responds to Michelle Stone’s recent claims that Joseph Smith did not practice polygamy. Drawing from historical records, primary sources, and his extensive research, John offers context and analysis on one of the most debated topics in Latter-day Saint history. Join us for an insightful conversation unpacking the complexities of Joseph Smith’s involvement in early Mormon polygamy.John Hamer is an American-Canadian historian who has focused primarily on Mormon history and has published a number of books on the topic, including Scattering of the Saints: Schism Within Mormonism and House of the Lord: The Story of the Kirtland Temple. John Hamer was raised in the Mormon Church, left the religion and joined the Community of Christ Church in 2010 and now serves as a pastor in their Toronto Congregation. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

New research by PhD student Colby Townsend reveals striking connections between The Book of Mormon and Adam Clarke’s Bible Commentary, a widely used biblical resource in Joseph Smith’s time. In this episode, we explore how Smith engaged with Clarke’s insights, made textual modifications, and reframed biblical passages to fit his theological vision. Was Smith restoring lost scripture, or was he influenced by contemporary scholarship?Show NotesYouTube 00:11:35 Summary of Joseph Smith using the Adam Clarke Commentary00:17:06 During this time, this is NOT considered plagiarism00:19:55 The new article by Colby Townsend00:23:24 Clip of Hayley talking about Joseph Smith using the Bible Commentary00:29:45 What were we taught about how the Book of Mormon was produced?00:30:17 Quote from David Whitmer on the translation through the seer stone00:35:00 The Expansion Theory00:40:26 Quote from Emma on the Book of Mormon translation00:42:33 Quote from Martin Harris on it being a direct translation00:44:00 There is no account from Oliver Cowdery on the translation process; Oliver was also willing to lie00:44:51 Clip of Brad Wilcox on how the Book of Mormon was translation00:48:08 Background of Colby Townsend 00:50:08 Quotes from the article00:57:55 Joseph used other Bible Commentaries01:02:00 Conclusion from Colby Townsend’s article01:07:40 Clip of the the Bible not having plain and precious things being removed01:09:25 Clip - The Book of Mormon is to bring back the things lost from the Bible01:11:20 2 Nephi 11:2 Nephi talks about the importance of Isaiah01:22:43 Quote from the Colby’s article about how Joseph was well versed in the Bible01:24:55 Dan Vogel’s theory about the presence of Isaiah in the Book of Mormon01:26:14 Colby Townsend discussing Joseph and Methodism01:29:25 Adam Clarke’s Biblical Commentary01:33:35 Joseph’s access to Clarke01:40:00 Comparing The Book of Mormon to the Adam Clarke Commentary01:49:35 Joseph copying both the KJV and then Adam Clarke’s commentary01:58:38 Next example in Isaiah 50:2 “their fish is dried up”02:12:20 The example of Isaiah 2: 12-16 “cedars and oaks” and “high mountains and lofty hills”02:18:45 Isaiah 9:3 “thou hast increased their joy”02:24:20 Gerardo found his own examples02:32:24 Examples in Isaiah 14:3 “in that day”02:38:59 Isaiah 49:1 “O ye distant lands”02:48:10 Example Isaiah 29:11 “read it, for it is sealed up”02:56:50 If this is the most correct book why was so much of it changed?Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

In this heartfelt episode, Kevin and Jennifer share their inspiring journey through their Mormon upbringing, missions, and eventual faith transition. They discuss navigating doubts, supporting their gay and transgender children, and redefining what love and family mean. From facing church pressures to embracing authenticity, their story highlights resilience, acceptance, and the power of unconditional love. Don't miss this moving conversation about finding peace and purpose beyond organized religion. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

Lori Vallow Daybell was interviewed on NBC/Dateline Exclusive. Keith Morrison sat down with convicted murderer and Mormon mom, Lori Vallow, to talk about her case. Her two children, Tylee and J.J. were last seen in September of 2019 and she and her new husband Chad Daybell were arrested and charged for their murder. During the Dateline interview, Lori said that she and Chad Daybell were going to be exonerated because of Jesus. “I have seen things in the future that Jesus showed me when I was in heaven.” She went on to say that “Jesus is a funny guy and a wonderful person that loves everybody and especially loves her.” Lori has long been desirous to appear on Dateline and finally got her wish. She is also charged with conspiracy in the attempted murder of her niece’s ex-husband in another case. Show NotesYouTube 00:00:30 Lauren Mathias, Megan Conner, Gerardo and John00:10:00 She went in surprised, she’d heard most of it, but was surprised at Lori’s anger00:17:50 Gerardo feels the interview would have been different with someone with a cult background00:19:25 Did the interview show us the real Lori Vallow?00:29:50 Lori is trying to lay groundwork for blaming Tylee for JJ’s death00:34:00 Discussing the evidence that Tylee was killed weeks before JJ00:47:40 Lori claiming that she met Jesus00:51:25 Polling the audience about weather Lori Vallow believes this is true01:09:30 Where do Chad’s beliefs begin and end?01:12:05 Lori bringing in the spare tire and the car chair01:25:00 We didn’t see much of the 90 minute interview between Lori and Keith01:29:55 What Keith did that Lauren did not like01:37:00 Was JJ asleep or was he already dead?01:39:30 How Mormons view death and how Lori did not have a lot of grief or sadness in this01:41:50 Lori saying that Tammy loves her and she loves Tammy01:55:20 It was clearly disturbing to see Alex and Chad unloading a pickup truck02:05:55 Alex’s death - was it natural causes or a murder?02:18:00 Harmful places in Visions of Glory 02:19:55 Mormon beliefs that play into this crime 02:31:00 Other individuals who killed their children because they thought their children were possessed02:39:00 Lauren being a members of the church02:49:45 Lori saying that she’s right and “I told you so”03:18:30 Keith pointed out that Lori was giving parenting advice Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2025

Dana shares her personal journey of growing up in the Mormon church, navigating mental health challenges, and eventually deconstructing her faith. From her Mormon upbringing and mission experience to questioning societal and religious expectations, Dana's story explores themes of self-discovery, the impact of religion on her life, and the search for meaning beyond traditional beliefs. After leaving the church, Dana delves into topics like mental health, fertility, relationships, and motherhood, offering a candid perspective on her path toward healing and personal growth. This channel is a space for open discussion on faith, identity, and life after Mormonism. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2025

When vlogger Ruby Franke was arrested for child abuse in August 2023, it shocked millions who had followed her family’s seemingly perfect life on YouTube. But behind the wholesome image was a much darker reality. With counselor Jodi Hildebrandt’s influence, the Franke family spiraled into a nightmare. Now, in Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke, the Frankes’ eldest children, Shari and Chad, and Ruby’s husband, Kevin, speak out for the first time. In this episode of Mormon Stories, we react to this gripping series, unpacking the shocking revelations and what they say about family, control, and the dangers of social media. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

In this long awaited interview, James Huntsman, a successful businessman and member of the Huntsman family, joins John Dehlin and fraud attorney Mark Pugsley to discuss his high-profile fraud lawsuit against the LDS Church—how he lost his LDS faith, why he pursued a fraud lawsuit to get a tithing refund, what he learned, and why he has no regrets. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

For nearly two centuries, Joseph Smith’s involvement in polygamy has been a point of controversy. Historians and more recently, LDS leaders, have affirmed that the Mormon prophet took dozens of wives. But a growing movement within the Church is challenging that narrative, arguing that Smith was a monogamist—and that polygamy was a later invention used to justify the actions of Brigham Young and other church leaders.One of the most vocal advocates of this perspective is Michelle Stone, creator of 132 Problems: Revisiting Mormon Polygamy, a YouTube channel with nearly 120,000 subscribers. A lifelong member of the LDS Church, Michelle once had a strong testimony of polygamy, believing it was divinely inspired. But everything changed ten years ago when her husband questioned whether polygamy was ever truly of God. Determined to prove him wrong, Michelle embarked on a deep dive into historical records—only to find herself questioning whether Joseph Smith practiced polygamy at all.Now, she joins Mormon Stories to share her research, her faith journey, and why she believes the Church has it wrong on one of the most controversial chapters in its history. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox Support us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

In December 2024, the Mormon Church released a new chapter in the children’s Doctrine and Covenants Stories on the topic of polygamy. In that chapter they discuss how God sometimes commands his people to live polygamy and how hard it was for Joseph Smith to obey. The chapter also discusses how Joseph’s wife Emma did not want her husband to marry other women. Children were even taught that some of the brethren were arrested and put in prison for living polygamy. After the release of that chapter many people spoke up, criticizing the church for this new content. Many believed these stories were too heavy for children and that by releasing this chapter the Mormon Church was actively teaching a story of sexual assault and grooming. Today we learned that the church changed this chapter. Certain phrasing was removed as well as entire sections of the chapter. Is this due to online criticism of the church teaching children polygamy? Does the Mormon Church cave under pressure? Join us today as John, Julia (from Analyzing Mormonism), and Alyssa Witbeck discuss these changes. YouTubeShow Notes 00:07:55 Clip - Criticism forces the church to change00:25:36 Clip - Nathan Hinckley talking about them using the word “hard”00:26:15 Comparing the original and the new version00:35:20 Clip - Is God okay with forced polygamy?00:36:55 Comparing the changes on the second image00:42:20 Clip - “The Mormon church is participating in sexual assault”00:53:46 Clip - Michelle Stone on Emma Smith00:56:10 In the new version this section has been completely taken out01:01:58 Clip - “How did this get through the review process?”01:15:22 Clip - Mormon leaders went to prison01:19:24 The last panel did not change on Woodruff’s manifesto01:26:08 Polygamy is still hard on women today in an eternal aspect01:36:25 What was the 2015 Exclusion Policy and how the church rolled it back01:32:40 Answers from the Church History Survey01:48:17 The story of Zina Huntington01:50:30 Clip - Can consent be given in a Mormon context?01:54:55 This is a positive change overall02:03:10 What is it that causes people to question their faith?02:06:11 Clip - “A faith that blinds you is problematic”02:08:25 Final thoughts___________________ At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.   Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4530951114981376 🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor todayOne-time or recurring donations: https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories Paypal: https://paypal.me/mormonstories  Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6OgmoqJbOVRq-Lv1P7SzA/join Our Platforms:🌐Mormon Stories Blog: https://www.mormonstories.org/episodes 🎙️Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories ✳️Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4sDzk7dRjODTSEqzZKZJzk?si=148b0efc1ccc4404&nd=1 🍎Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mormon-stories-lds/id312094772 🖼️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mormstories 📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonstoriespodcast 🎮Discord: https://discord.com/invite/kuX5p6yyjF  Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 #MormonStories #Mormon #lds

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2025

A 15 question quiz has been designed to facilitate healthy discussions about factual LDS Church history, and LDS Church historical transparency. It should take less than 5 minutes to complete. Audience: This quiz is for anyone who has ever been an LDS Church member, including active and inactive LDS Church members, and former LDS. Please take this quiz yourself, and then please invite family, friends, and (most importantly) LDS church leaders and missionaries to take the quiz as well. We are hopeful that the survey can serve as a way for you and others to healthily discuss factual LDS Church history, as well as the LDS Church's overall record of historical transparency. NOTE: All of the historical facts below have been recognized by the LDS church as valid, to the best of our understanding. References have been included for discussion. We will be awarding a modest number of cash awards to those who complete the survey in its entirety, and who are willing to share compelling insights or experiences - which might include coming on the podcast to discuss their experiences.  We are also considering the option of administering this survey as a scientific, random survey.  If you are interested in supporting such a project, feel free to donate at the link below. Enjoy! And please email us with any feedback or experiences you'd like to share. Survey link: https://forms.gle/3o7Tr6ZHKzoEBpMs8 To donate to this project: https://donorbox.org/ldschurchresearch YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: ⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠ ⁠Support us on Patreon⁠ ⁠PayPal⁠ ⁠Venmo⁠ Our Platforms: ⁠YouTube⁠ ⁠Patreon⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: ⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠ ⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠ ⁠Join the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

A 15 question quiz has been designed to facilitate healthy discussions about factual LDS Church history, and LDS Church historical transparency. It should take less than 5 minutes to complete. Audience: This quiz is for anyone who has ever been an LDS Church member, including active and inactive LDS Church members, and former LDS. Please take this quiz yourself, and then please invite family, friends, and (most importantly) LDS church leaders and missionaries to take the quiz as well. We are hopeful that the survey can serve as a way for you and others to healthily discuss factual LDS Church history, as well as the LDS Church's overall record of historical transparency. NOTE: All of the historical facts below have been recognized by the LDS church as valid, to the best of our understanding. References have been included for discussion. We will be awarding a modest number of cash awards to those who complete the survey in its entirety, and who are willing to share compelling insights or experiences - which might include coming on the podcast to discuss their experiences.  We are also considering the option of administering this survey as a scientific, random survey.  If you are interested in supporting such a project, feel free to donate at the link below. Enjoy! And please email us with any feedback or experiences you'd like to share. Survey link: https://forms.gle/3o7Tr6ZHKzoEBpMs8 To donate to this project: https://donorbox.org/ldschurchresearch YouTubeShow Notes 00:08:30 Going over the survey together, email, etc.00:12:00 Question one - Were you taught about Joseph Smith’s 1826 Treasure digging trial?00:14:10 Question two: What were you taught regarding the Book of Mormon translation?00:15:50 Question three: What were you taught about the priesthood restoration?00:17:18 Question four: Were you taught that Joseph Smith had over thirty wives?00:18:20 Question five: Were you taught that Joseph Smith hid his first marriages from his wife Emma?00:22:20 Question six: Were you taught about the different accounts of the First Vision 00:24:55 Question seven: Were you taught that Joseph Smith allowed black men to have the priesthood? 00:27:44 Question eight: Were you taught that Joseph Smith was a Freemason?00:29:40 Question nine: Where you taught that the Book of Abraham is a false translation?00:32:10 Question ten: Were you taught about Joseph Smith destroying the Nauvoo Expositor?00:35:00 Question eleven: Do you feel like the Church has been fully honest?00:35:35 Question twelve: Do you feel like the truth claims are important? 00:36:55 Question thirteen: Would you have made different decisions had you known?00:38:29 Question fourteen: Did the church intentionally withhold this information?00:58:40 Why did the church even release the Gospel Topics Essays?01:30:00 Share this survey with friends and family Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: ⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠ ⁠Support us on Patreon⁠ ⁠PayPal⁠ ⁠Venmo⁠ Our Platforms: ⁠YouTube⁠ ⁠Patreon⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: ⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠ ⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠ ⁠Join the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

Anna shares her personal journey growing up as a Pentecostal Charismatic in Utah, detailing her experiences within the Assemblies of God (AG) church, and the struggles and beliefs that shaped her faith. Although she has never been Mormon, Anna has a unique perspective of the LDS church as she grew up surrounded by Mormonism in Utah. Anna also delves into her time as a missionary in Mozambique, her eventual questioning of her beliefs, and the emotional journey of leaving the church. The conversation touches on the challenges of leaving a high-demand religion and finding new paths to healing and authenticity.Show NotesYouTube00:04:14 Anna’s intention00:15:35 “Gift of Tongues” vs “Speaking in Tongues”00:25:43 Both of Anna’s parents are pastors00:40:00 The belief in “healing” abilities in Assemblies of God00:56:00 Anna diagnosed with cancer around age two, they thought religion could heal her01:19:20 Why do “mainstream” Christians not see Mormons as Christians?01:33:18 Anna was conditioned to believe that expressing emotion shows closeness to God01:52:08 Anna talks about what it was like to have Mormon parents not want their kids to be around her02:01:17 Speaking in tongues for the first time02:16:50 Creating false memories02:26:45 How are sexual transgressions seen in evangelicalism vs mormonism?02:38:05 Anna stopped attending church and school because she felt so ashamed02:40:50 Anna’s connections with the Latter Day Church of Christ or the polygamist Kingston Group 02:52:41 Anna’s time in Mozambique 03:02:45 It took Anna years to adjust back to normal after her work on her mission03:10:20 Anna felt like God was calling her home to “save the Mormons”03:21:10 Anna voicing: “I have created an image of myself that isn't real”03:38:30 Questioning what to do with her life after leaving that mission03:47:20 Anna began to see red flags in her pastor -he was not financially transparent and sexist03:52:15 Anna’s pastor gives sermon called “Four Bad Reasons that People Leave the Church”04:12:04 Anna feels extremely alone now after leaving04:25:00 Her parents are still not very willing to view things that are critical of the church04:45:13 Watched Margi’s “Coming home to myself” THRIVE presentation04:50:08 What are her moments where she taps into beauty or pleasure?04:53:46 Final questions for Anna Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox Support us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

Many have asked the question: Did Mormon Prophet Joseph Smith have sex with his polygamous wives? During his lifetime, Joseph Smith engaged in polygamy (which was illegal in the state of Illinois) and his wives consisted of women who were underage, women who were single, women who were widowed, and women who were already legally married. What is the evidence for his sexual relations with them? Additionally a number of the brethren were also commanded to live polygamy, what is the evidence for sexual relations in those unions? Were any children born in polygamy during the prophet’s life? Join us for a unique LDS Discussions episode where we explore these topics and answer these questions. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox Support us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2025

We sit down with the attorneys behind the explosive lawsuits filed against LDS Church, alleging decades of systemic child sexual abuse and institutional cover-up. These lawsuits include shocking claims of abuse facilitated by Church leaders across multiple states and even international borders, with some cases framed under federal trafficking statutes.The attorneys reveal how these cases aim to hold the Church accountable, explain the legal strategy behind the state and federal coordination efforts, and share the stories of survivors fighting for justice. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

Keith Erekson serves as the director of the historical research and outreach for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On January 12, 2025 he gave a fireside in which he answered tough questions. Today we are responding to that fireside and discussing such topics as polygamy, Joseph Smith marrying women who were already married, and the church hiding aspects of its history. Show NotesYouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmo Our Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple Podcasts Contact us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025

In today's episode, John sits down for a conversation with immigration attorney, Justin Sweeney. Justin grew up LDS in Mesa, AZ, served a mission in Argentina, and has served in many leadership positions within the church. He was even serving in his branch presidency up until the end of 2024. Justin discusses how he felt overworked in his church callings, questioning polygamy and masonry, and his journey of discovering the true history of the church.

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025