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Mormon Stories Podcast

Author: Dr. John Dehlin

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Mormon Stories Podcast is an attempt to build understanding between and about Mormons through the telling of stories in both audio and video formats.
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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 NotesYouTube00:05:25 Kevin’s story begins00:14:20 Kevin met with general authority Paul H. Dunn to get approved for his mission00:27:58 Jennifer’s Story begins00:36:11 They met again with Paull Dunn about getting married in the temple00:48:38 Defining their own gender roles in their marriage01:01:18 Concerns with paying tithing01:09:00 Teenage son struggling with p*rn and coming out as gay01:17:48 Their gay son decided to serve a mission; he was told his mission will “cure him of his gayness”01:30:00 Mission president refused to let him go home, and had possession of his passport01:38:00 Kevin told his son “never try to make the church work for you - it never will”01:51:55 Their gay son says that if he was not able to leave the mission he may have committed suicide02:08:50 Their daughter tells them she is done with the church; she experienced love bombing02:12:50 Kevin asks his mom, “If the church wasn't true would you want to know” - she says no02:16:50 “If there is a place in the church for my gay son, we will reconsider”02:30:40 Discussing transgender issues in the church02:40:48 Why do a lot of ex-Mormons turn to atheism after leaving the church?02:28:20 Has the way that they see “love” and “family” changed over the years? What do they mean for them now?02:56:23 Final thoughtsMormon 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 PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:00:30 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 adviceMormon 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 PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:05:00 Dana’s Mormon Story begins00:17:00 What examples did she see of women in the church?00:21:34 It was out of the ordinary to see women with careers00:38:23 She was reported to the Bishop and her parents that she had experimented with cutting01:06:30 Dana’s mission experience service in Atlanta, Georgia01:12:22 She didn't love the temple experience - was “underwhelming”01:24:24 David Archuleta was at the MTC during the same time01:32:51 Dana knew very soon that she wanted to leave the mission early and she had to fight to go home01:38:27 Dana Decided to go to BYU01:56:25 Felt pressure to be married by the time she finished BYU02:02:17 Dana to tell her parents that they could not be married in the temple and her mother told her “He’s taken everything from you”02:18:07 Mormon therapist asked her to consider if she would be open to dating a non-Mormon02:29:50 Dana lists the ways the church failed her - the church makes promises it can’t keep02:41:20 Began to research severe PMS and PMDD, and learned that she suffered from it02:47:02 Dana decided to have a baby by herself - very radical in Mormonism03:08:00 Dana feels that she was a better foster parent as an ex-Mormon03:14:40 Deconstructing the idea of “motherhood” in Mormonism03:27:18 Dana focusing on her PhDMormon 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 PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:02:45 Curious Case of Judi Hildebrant 00:22:45 “Mormon Mommy Bloggers”00:30:40 Kevin is also a victim of an abuser00:48:50 Ruby thinks a happy family is an obedient family 01:10:57 Ruby’s channel was “Advancing the image of the church”01:26:00 Pressure in Mormonism to find a partner that is acceptable by church standards01:56:49 The Franke kids begin to shut down to the camera02:02:26 Ruby tells Chad: “Fake being happy right now”02:14:17 Who is the “Devil in the Family” representing?02:30:20 “The beanbag incident” with Chad’s bed being taken away02:40:42 Shari saying Chad got “beaten” and had to help him clean up blood off the walls 03:01:21 Kevin’s initial reaction to ConneXions - “This is a cult”03:23:20 Lauren’s reaction to Jodi’s house: “They had Costco inside this house”03:28:00 The LDS church could be shutting this dogma down but they don't04:04:00 When Jodi is possessed its a feature, when the kids are possessed its a bug04:31:10 Jodi Gave Ruby permission to be this way04:49:40 Shari calls the police for the first time to do a wellness check on the kids04:58:54 The younger daughter found in the closet - wasn't even able to talk05:17:50 “Takes an exceptional lack of empathy” for a mother to do this05:25:11 Assessment of how Kevin let this happen05:41:30 Sometimes families like these can be more susceptible to manipulation 06:07:00 Become cult informed! Become born again to your own intrinsic knowledge 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 PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:00:49 Brief overview of James Huntsman's lawsuit00:07:27 Family background info00:18:50 Served a mission at 1800:22:21 Discussion of a kidnapping in their family00:36:27 Emergence of Ensign Peak & church investments 00:49:58 Cracks start developing in James’ faith01:03:03 What led to him deciding to file the suit01:09:35 The downsides of him suing01:17:00 Comparing the organized structure of his family’s business to the disorganization of the church 01:28:55 What sparked his desire to sue the church01:37:00 “It was a very personal battle for me”01:48:40 Statute of limitations for fraud01:54:00 Everyone now knows how much the church has - floodgates of awareness have been opened to the churches bad financial dealings02:07:00 James has no intention of damaging the church02:14:15 The church today does not need members tithing 02:26:00 How did they feel after they filed?02:44:20 Are churches protected from committing fraud02:58:00 James feels relieved that it is all over, and they can talk about it now03:11:29 Final thoughts & 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 PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:05:22 Why we want to have Michelle on00:15:48 Michelle’s great-grandfather was told by the president of the church to go to Mexico to get a second wife 00:35:07 Her grandfather was called to be a mission president in Tonga, leaving behind other wives00:48:56 She was never taught that Joseph didn’t practice polygamy 01:05:00 Things made more sense once she realized there was problems in church history01:14:00 Trauma of losing a child at the hospital in 2020 during the pandemic 01:24:00 Had an experience where she felt that she saw her daughter grown up01:56:48 Michelle was devastated by the Nov 2015 LGBTQ Policy02:04:50 Discussion of polygamy in the BOM02:14:50 Michelle had a second faith crisis in 202002:32:33 When did she start her YouTube channel “132 Problems”?02:43:34 God saying in the BoM that polygamy is an abomination02:56:01 Has she ever decided differently than what god “commanded”?03:18:15 Discussion on RLDS church and why they split from the LDS church03:19:41 Michelle is asking individuals to “hold a little space” for this new theory03:31:54 Her episode on Emma changed her mind03:49:20 “I have become more confident in my stance since I started speaking out”04:16:57 Michelle’s thoughts on Fanny Alger04:39:45 Why were there rumors of polygamy going on in the church in 1835?05:00:40 Questions on the Nauvoo Expositor05:33:00 How can the church be true if the original men made so many mistakes?05:40:50 What are her thoughts on the church maybe excommunicating her?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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
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 Notes00:07:55 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 religionsWant 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/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:📧 MormonStories@gmail.com📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117#MormonStories #Mormon #lds
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/3o7Tr6ZHKzoEBpMs8To donate to this project: https://donorbox.org/ldschurchresearchYouTubeShow Notes00:08:30 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 familyMormon 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 ⁠Venmo⁠Our Platforms: ⁠YouTube⁠ ⁠Patreon⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠Contact us: MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: ⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠ ⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠ ⁠Join the Discord
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 AnnaMormon 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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:10:50 The purpose of polygamy from the scriptures - Book of Mormon Jacob 2:27-3000:14:05 List of all 35 of Joseph Smith’s wives00:19:45 Color coded list of the wives and sexual relations with Joseph Smith00:26:55 Fanny Alger was Joseph Smith’s first “polygamous” wife00:32:45 Lucinda Pendleton Harris was the first polyandrous wife00:38:20 Zina Huntington was already married and was seven months pregnant00:45:30 Presendia Buell didn’t know if her son was Joseph’s son00:49:42 Levirate Marriage with Agnes Smith, Joseph Smith’s sister-in-law00:58:44 Sylvia Sessions Lyon thought her daughter was actually Joseph Smith’s01:01:15 How can the Mormon polygamy deniers explain this away?01:12:40 Elizabeth Durfee helped Joseph arrange new plural marriages01:19:00 Did Emma Smith push Eliza R. Snow down the stairs?01:22:26 Clip - Emma Smith did not attend Relief Society through all of 184301:30:06 Sarah Ann Whitney had a fake or “front husband” after she married Joseph Smith01:38:00 Joseph Smith visited Flora Ann Woodworth often01:54:50 Lucy Walker answers the question of why Joseph Smith didn’t have children in polygamy02:05:36 Helen Mar Kimball was only fourteen years old02:25:50 Desdemona Fullmer dreamed that Emma was going to poison her02:36:40 Malissa Lott’s testimony that she slept with Joseph Smith02:46:10 Human Trafficking in Mormon history03:03:10 Children born into polygamy03:08:52 The final count for who Joseph Smith had sex with and who he did notMormon 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 PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:05:30 Anne Andrews00:06:55 Kimberly DeGonia00:08:55 Kolby Reddish00:16:38 The human trafficking statute and how we define human trafficking00:36:50 The Atonement and the church protecting itself00:41:25 Describing the events in the way that lawyers do - High Level and what that means00:42:43 Importance of the victim’s age00:52:17 Discussion of the American criminal justice system01:08:25 Charges are filed against Payton01:19:50 Was Payton ever disciplined by the church?01:32:50 Movement to consolidate the cases in Los Angeles01:52:18 Dispelling myths on mandatory reporting laws01:55:52 Rough timeline of proceedings ahead02:17:00 Issues of Church and State laws?02:24:00 What suggestions do they have for the LDS church to handle these situations better?02:33:32 What is their motivation in defending these cases?02:52:11 Final thoughtsMormon 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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
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 NotesYouTube00:03:40 Introducing the original fireside with Keith Erekson00:10:23 Background on Keith Erekson who works for the Church00:17:08 Erekson saying the church never hid anything from its history00:21:30 How the Church has hidden its history00:30:35 Mountain Meadows Massacre00:37:25 Utah Mormon Reformation Questions00:43:42 The Word of Wisdom00:58:57 The Lord is guiding President Nelson to lead the church today01:02:00 Clip of Elder Holland explaining how the Church moves with the world01:08:19 Joseph Smith publicly denying that he lived polygamy01:17:00 These firesides are for questioning members01:18:42 John C. Bennett’s list of Joseph Smith’s wives01:22:52 Denials of polygamy01:29:29 What is the purpose of polygamy?01:33:53 Monogamy is the rule plurality is the exception01:42:16 The New and Everlasting Covenant means polygamy01:52:52 Erekson on the Restoration of All Things02:03:05 Why did Joseph Smith marry women who were already married?02:10:40 The Law of Adoption02:19:03 Joseph’s wives getting sealed to other people after his death02:20:24 Sealings for Time only02:21:54 Time and Eternity only sealings02:31:31 Erekson on Mary Elizabeth Rollins02:34:10 Dan Vogel on Mary Elizabeth Rolins02:40:26 Is polygamy required for exaltation?02:51:22 Are women just prizes in Mormonism?02:55:46 Erekson on the Book of Abraham03:07:50 Finding the scrolls for the Book of Abraham03:12:20 Erekson saying we’ve always called these funerary texts03:21:15 The diagram produced in the Book of Abraham03:24:11 Joseph Smith and the Catalyst Theory for the Book of Abraham03:27:00 Grading Keith Erekson on his knowledge, honesty, etc.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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
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. Show NotesYouTube00:01:20 Justin’s experience with a “Truth Crisis” not “Faith Crisis” and Intentions00:14:43 Growing up, High School, and sports00:26:17 Justin’s experience at the MTC00:36:35 “Fraudulent” baptisms in Latin American missions00:40:55 Being called to YSA bishopric00:53:47 Justing finishing law school & became immigration attorney01:09:57 Justin began to feel like an outsider from mormonism01:18:00 Discussion about the Godmakers and the lack of women in the Eternal Plan01:25:15 Justin Sweeney’s “Truth crisis” begins01:39:30 Justin was “using his lawyer brain to asses Mormonism”01:44:50 Learning about the “stone in the hat” and that the church still has it01:55:00 Comparing Mormonism to Santa Claus02:05:33 Women are second class people in Mormonism02:10:52 Justin discussing the LDS SEC order from an attorney’s perspective02:23:00 Reading Second Class Saints by Matt Harris with his wife and kids02:26:20 Why not keep it to himself and continue to “fake it”02:32:25 “My intention is not to tell people to leave the church”02:38:47 Elder Holland “stay in the boat” marketing video02:44:35 Why isn't he afraid of excommunication by coming on Mormon Stories?02:54:09 Final thoughts - Is he happier now no longer believing?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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has unanimously rejected James Huntsman's fraud lawsuit against the LDS/Mormon Church, which claimed that the church misled the membership over its tithing usage.Join John, Gerardo, and attorney Kolby Reddish to break down the decision.Show NotesYouTube00:04:26 Initial reactions to the news 00:13:00 Huntsman Procedure Explained00:15:45 Where the Three Tithing Cases started00:21:55 False statements made by the Church saying it would NOT use tithing funds00:48:22 What is the definition of fraud?01:01:05 The Church omitted half of the statement that changed the meaning01:10:50 “Reserve funds” come from tithing for a “rainy day”01:31:00 Why we should all become churches01:34:47 More from the Majority Decision01:42:55 Closing thoughts - we need to be accurate on how we talk about it01:45:10 Judge Bress’ Concurrence02:06:55 Bumatay’s Concurrence02:20:55 Summary of the judicial breakdownMormon 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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
Austin Wheeler shares his personal journey navigating Mormonism, military culture, and faith deconstruction. He recounts growing up in the church, his early experiences with trauma, and how Mormonism influenced his views on violence and masculinity. After a series of life events—ranging from military service at West Point to his mission in Taiwan—he confronts the toxic elements of both the military and the church, including dehumanization and harmful beliefs. Ultimately, he reflects on how his experiences shaped his disillusionment with Mormonism, his struggles with identity, and the deep questions about purpose and meaning that arose as a result.Show NotesYouTube00:01:55 Introductions00:08:55 His parents divorced when he was in seventh grade00:10:00 He was sexually assaulted by a ward member and doubled down in his belief00:31:00 How his High School shaped his identity00:42:15 Prepper culture associated with the military culture00:58:55 The Mormon culture is that they are going to build you in OUR image01:20:00 Experiences at the Mormon Singles Ward01:23:37 Called to the Tawaiian mission01:36:00 He started a fight club in the MTC01:45:00 Mormon culture makes a lot of people weird01:50:35 His mission president thought he was sick because he had sinned01:53:15 They sent him home for worthiness reasons, not because he was sick02:03:45 He went back on his mission02:24:00 Meeting his wife02:42:00 Authority and obedience in the church and in the military02:56:20 Opening his mind to the reality that the church had a lot of shortcomings03:07:10 How did his military career end?03:19:45 How did his military service end?03:27:35 Because he was never deployed is he happy or sad? Broken or healed?03:36:35 If you want to connect with people who have been in the military03:48:30 Nihilistic views and the emptiness of existence03:53:20 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🤝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:📧 MormonStories@gmail.com📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Paul reflects on his journey from being raised in the Mormon church to eventually leaving it. He opens up about his childhood, feeling isolated due to his neurodivergence, and his complicated relationship with his family. Paul shares his path to Mormonism, how he felt a strong connection to the faith at first, and his experiences as a missionary, including the challenges he faced in Argentina. Over time, he became disillusioned with the church, particularly after learning new information and struggling with its stance on LGBTQ issues. As Paul navigates life post-church, he discusses his career, his evolving understanding of love and relationships, and the healing process through music and self-reflection. The episode explores his feelings of loneliness, the importance of recognizing toxic behavior, and his journey to self-acceptance after leaving the Mormon faith.Show NotesYouTube00:03:35 Defining neurodivergence00:14:30 Religious experiences before the LDS church00:27:18 First introduction to Morminsim00:47:28 Mission call to Buenos Aires and being pressured to confess sexual sins01:00:55 How neurodivergence played into his mission01:16:28 Parental alienation & trying to reconnect with his mom01:32:58 “Mormonism is passive aggressive”01:41:25 Paul began to get in trouble for questioning priesthood holders01:59:20 November 2015 LGBT policy and Paul’s choice to stop attending church02:14:50 Feeling love from the members, but not the institution02:28:25 Narcissists only see their own reality02:44:10 Do you feel more fulfilled than when you were Mormon?02:56:04 Final questions - “Where will you go?”___________________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:📧 MormonStories@gmail.com📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
In this episode of LDS Discussions, we explore how BYU Professor Anthony Sweat’s artwork reflects the troubling aspects of church history found in the CES Letter by Jeremy Runnells. Despite being excommunicated for questioning the church, Runnells’ CES Letter, published in 2013, exposes discrepancies in the official narrative. Meanwhile, Sweat’s art, starting in 2014, delves into controversial topics like Joseph Smith's treasure digging, the use of a seer stone, and polygamy. We compare Sweat's paintings to the CES Letter's criticisms, highlighting how the church’s history is often presented inaccurately. Join us as we discuss these bold portrayals and the ongoing tension between church teachings and historical truth.Show NotesYouTube00:00:00 Intro00:06:55 This is episode 60 of LDS Discussions00:10:50 Introduction to Anthony Sweat00:15:20 Historical overview with these controversial topics being covered00:22:30 Earlier artwork depicting images of the restoration00:34:30 The CES Letter by Jeremy Runnells was published in 201300:35:50 How members were taught the translation happened versus how it actually happened00:41:33 First painting - “The First Visions” by Anthony Sweat00:54:46 Quote from Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy00:57:22 “Gazelem, A Stone” by Anthony Sweat, Joseph obtaining his brown seer stone01:06:13 The Harmony Treasure Searcher by Anthony Sweat01:15:25 Joseph Smith’s white stone and brown stone01:18:46 Clip of Anthony Sweat sharing concerns from a BYU student01:22:07 CES Letter and Anthony Sweat saying correct artwork wouldn’t communicate what the Church wants to communicate01:26:45 “Oliver Cowdery and the Gift of the Rod” by Anthony Sweat01:33:44 “The Ordination of Q. Walker Lewis” by Anthony Sweat01:39:09 “An Angel with a Drawn Sword” by Anthony Sweat01:48:06 “Destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor” by Anthony Sweat01:52:25 “Purgatory: Joseph, Emma, and the Revelation on Plural Marriage” by Anthony Sweat01:59:44 Clip of Anthony Sweat talking about painting controversial aspects of church history02:02:35 The church is still trying NOT to show the rock in a hat during translation02:07:25 Clip of Anthony Sweat and the translation process (the church telling an artist to change his painting)02:13:13 Other depictions from Anthony Sweat___________________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:📧 MormonStories@gmail.com📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
In this episode of Mormon Stories, Erika Nordfelt shares her powerful journey from a devout Mormon upbringing to finding healing and self-discovery. Erika recounts her experiences growing up in a close-knit Mormon family, navigating high school in Colorado, and attending BYU-Idaho, where she faced struggles with religious expectations and marital dynamics shaped by the Church.She candidly discusses topics like sexual shame, pornography in marriage, and the role of Twelve-Step programs, highlighting the challenges of reconciling faith, identity, and personal growth. Erika opens up about her turning points, leaving the Church with her husband, and her work as a therapist, witnessing firsthand the impact of shame within Mormon culture.Show NotesYouTube00:00:00 Intro00:03:18 Erika’s intention for coming onto Mormon Stories and sharing her story00:06:12 Erika’s upbringing and her parents00:14:32 The best of Mormonism is being raised outside of Utah or Idaho, Mormonism should be the salt not the whole meal00:16:30 High School years and feeling undesirable in the dating aspect00:23:18 Her relationship with her body in dance and modesty00:35:00 Sexual neglect in her upbringing and in the Mormon church00:37:26 Attending BYU-Idaho - She did not serve a mission because she met her husband00:49:20 Her awareness to physical touch and how she was raised00:54:20 How the Mormon church shaped their marital relationship as far as gender roles, etc.01:06:07 Learning that her husband struggled with masturbation and porn and how she handled it 01:20:00 She felt so much despair when her husband confessed to viewing pornography01:29:23 The Twelve Step Program and what part it played in her marriage01:39:20 How long did she go to these Twelve Step meetings and was it working?01:46:10 Moving to Rexburg and getting new jobs on campus01:56:00 Seeing clients for the first time at the BYU-Idaho Counseling Center02:03:55 She had a front row seat to Mormon suffering while working as a counselor02:14:35 Checking in with their marriage during this time in their life02:26:55 The beginning of the end lasted for five years, holes being poked in the Gospel02:33:10 She began exploring troublesome church topics from a safe place in the church02:43:40 Has leaving the church affected her therapy practice at all?02:50:40 A better way to approach porn and masturbation03:19:13 Erika Nordfelt wrote a book called “Don’t Walk Alone”____________Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:Our Platforms:Contact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:
January 9 saw the release of a new Netflix series, American Primeval, set in the context of mid-19th-century Utah. Though the series is fictionalized, many of the events and peoples depicted are real, including the Utah War, the Mountain Meadows Massacre, the Mormon settlers, and the Shoshone, Ute, and Paiute Indians.Historians Barbara Jones Brown and Darren Parry join host John Dehlin for this live podcast to answer viewer's questions about which aspects of the series are factual and which are historical fiction. Barbara is co-author of Vengeance Is Mine: The Mountain Meadows Massacre and Its Aftermath, and Darren is the author of The Bear River Massacre: A Shoshone History. Barbara and Darren offer a unique perspective because they are not only historians of this time period in Utah, they are direct descendants of peoples depicted in the mini-series--Darren is Northwestern Shoshone, and Barbara is a descendant of perpetrators of the horrific massacre at Mountain Meadows. Show NotesYouTube00:00:00 Intro00:06:25 Photos of ancestors00:14:15 The creators did not intend this to be historically accurate 00:23:55 We need to debunk that this was done by the Native Americans, it was NOT00:33:45 Jim Bridger’s character was the funnest character in the show00:42:45 Brigham Young (Kim Coates) what is right and wrong00:47:40 Jedediah M. Grant and the Mormon Reformation00:57:25 Elias Higbee and John M. Higbee01:07:45 Mountain Meadows started as a cattle raid01:18:50 Made up fiction from the Nauvoo Legion01:26:11 Two Moons - great female lead who had had her tongue cut out01:30:40 Red Feather01:35:00 Winter Bird - Strong female character01:39:10 Sarah Rowell and Devin Rowell - neither were Mormon, main characters, 01:43:20 Jacob Pratt and Abish Pratt were both Mormon01:46:55 Wild Bill Hickman - member of the Nauvoo Legion01:51:20 What Barbara said about the missed opportunity in the TV show01:55:00 Ned BlackhawkMormon 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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
Join Lauren Johnson Matthias (@HiddenTrueCrime ) Megan Conner (@Third_Verse ) Mindy Caldwell, and John Dehlin as they react to Shari Franke's new book "The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom" by Shari Franke, Ruby Franke's oldest daughter.Show NotesYouTube00:02:15 Trigger warning for the book00:14:30 Questions that will be covered in this episode involving Jodi, Ruby, Kevin, and the Mormon church00:19:32 Ruby and Kevin’s formation of their relationship and early family life00:28:30 Was Ruby Franke set up with a disadvantage by Mormon gender roles?00:35:18 Personality dynamics in the Franke family and Ruby’s profile as a mom and how much room the children had for their emotions00:39:42 Childhood emotional neglect with Ruby Franke and her children00:43:25 The pajama story and Ruby telling Shari she’d been friends after she had a baby00:57:38 Mormonism and Vlogging01:05:20 Consent and ethics in family vlogging01:12:00 Shari Franke’s mental health - thinking that her tummy aches are demonic possession01:29:03 Ruby removed Shari from therapy after Shari wanted to quit piano01:40:50 Shari starts her own YouTube channel, while Ruby did not help her grow it she demand some of the proceeds of the account01:43:46 Chad’s involvement in Shari’s story01:52:30 Why Ruby reached out to Jodi was because of Chad02:13:30 Meeting with Jodi as their therapist and showing her business structure as a cult02:21:10 Truth and Distortion became the bane of Shari’s existence02:34:50 Jodi’s tactics around isolation02:41:18 How Jodi saw sex everywhere and how she and Ruby were queer02:49:23 Visions of Glory and how it ties in with Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt02:56:34 Shari Franke compared Lori Vallow to Ruby Franke03:00:30 Thom Harrison and his influence over these cult leaders within the Mormon church03:11:35 The darkest part of the book was about Derek and Shari’s sexual assault03:31:14 Church disciplinary part of Shari’s story involving what happened with Derek03:41:55 Shari is familyless for a while, running into her dad on the BYU campus and he was afraid to talk to her04:04:05 Who is the main villain in this story? Is it Jodi or Ruby?04:12:24 Shari drawing connections in the Mormon church04:27:15 Shari’s final comments at the end of the book about her mother being narcissistic 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 VenmoOur Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast Join the Discord
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Comments (55)

Christine Brevick

plz don't have Jukia speak, she is so fast just sounds like chicken screeching.

Oct 11th
Reply

WildHeart

Julia missed her calling as an Auctioneer. 😊

May 26th
Reply

WildHeart

I just wanted to chime in about the comments about John having a "Mormon voice" because he's understanding and not loud or boisterous.. and yet I've regularly heard him read comments of listeners telling him to calm down or quiet down. I know this is not the subject of the episode but I can't help but notice that the advice to "shush" come from mostly or only female guests and listeners. Imagine if a man was to tell a woman host to water herself down a bit. Just be you, John. Don't tone it down.

Apr 25th
Reply

WildHeart

While this episode was interesting, I realized early on how speedy Julia speaks and I couldn't help but me more fascinated and curious by that than anything else haha. Is her part being sped up to 1.75x speed by chance? Serious question. Great episode and research though.

Jan 10th
Reply

Janette Jones

This podcast episode is so much BS! That's coming from a Nigerian born African American Christian, living in Ca and a daughter-in-law of LDS followers. There's a whole lot of not calling a thing a thing going on (hint: LDS racism & people pleasing). And the revelation that the Nigerians was ignored for years but once the Nigerian-Biafran war broke out, it must have been a revelation which excuses the mormons from evangelizing the "lost" in Nigeria? Yeah whatever!😂🤨

Nov 18th
Reply

Laura Taylor

Why is it unfortunate that anyone thinks conspiratorial , John? A conspiracy is simply two or more people plotting to deceive at least one other person. Another word for that is open-minded. Is that not why you parted ways with the LDS Church and why you embarked on a mission to expose their lies; their conspiracy to deceive?

Nov 12th
Reply

Loretta P

it took me 5 or 6 days to make it through all this. it was just so heavy. I can't imagine living through it. Jodi is a demon.

Sep 18th
Reply (1)

Trino Carrera

One..

May 5th
Reply

Trino Carrera

Funny, this LDS splinter group practice of drawing up a hit list. Obe thinks of the LeBarons as well as the Laffertys and Lori.

May 5th
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Jen Anderson

The blood is on the heads of the leaders of the mormon church. They knew these extremists groups are thriving and they stay silent. Shame on them all. if there is a hell, they belong there.

May 2nd
Reply

Rob Greer

I have had a completely different experience regarding the church and getting financial help. We live in Queen Creek, AZ and my wife broke her leg several years ago literally a week before our new insurance policies set in. We wracked up more than $10,000 in bills. We told the bishop, he made a phone call, and the next week he told us to send him bills totally $5,000. Those were promptly paid without any fuss whatsoever.

Mar 21st
Reply

Sally Williams

I have to say thar I was so impressed with this bishop and the way this episode was handled. It always sounds so mind-blowing when you hear this out loud. I live in Draper Utah and needed assistance when my husband lost his job. The church makes it extremely difficult to get assistance. Also, our area implemented the self-reliance program, and it is very humiliated and dehumanizing to ask for assistance. Last year, I was in an auxiliary presidency and attended a training on self-reliance. I wanted to vomit. In one of the most affluent areas in Utah. So I am so proud of this bishop for speaking out.

Mar 20th
Reply

Trino Carrera

I believe in Hebrew Pele El, would be a wonder or miracle of God..El being God.

Jan 21st
Reply

Alison Watkins Spencer

this was my first shelf breaker. shawn McCraney's utah show before 2010.

Oct 26th
Reply

Kyla Wiser

My day was made, having Kara back on MS. Yay!!!!

May 4th
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Alexandra Treen

I listened to both episodes, and I’m glad they are happy together, but man - so much hurt and pain caused by these two, and not a lot of remorse (or at least it didn’t seem that way to me). Unfortunately I think they both come off a little narcissistic. Just the fact that he worked his feelings out with Elizabeth between the two of them, before approaching his wife. He should have come to HER with those feelings from the beginning. Instead he had the security of having processed it, lived with it, and having made the decision all before including his wife in the process. Really sad and obviously shows the lack of togetherness there. And when you asked what he wanted to say to his kids, it was all “me, me, me” and no sorry, and seemingly no understanding for what his actions put them through. Likewise, Elizabeth seems to be only worried about how everything has affected her. She’s still dealing with the outcome of her decision to lie to his ex wife. The statement was clear that she hurt

Mar 25th
Reply

Kyla Wiser

Let's have a spicy Cara always!!!!!

Feb 18th
Reply

MysticMermaid

the quote mentioned from Marlin Jensen about the church losing their best and brightest... so he's saying those that stay are not the brightest and not the best... 😅 yikes

Feb 14th
Reply

Robin Hubert

all bullshit

Jan 9th
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Stephanie Johnson Aerakis

worst episode I have ever listened to. Clearly this man had an agenda. You unfortunately discredited yourself by having him on here. I have been part of this community for 5 years now and never once have I heard the stories he is clamming. You should have done your research before you had him on here...

Oct 22nd
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