Podcast appearances and mentions of John Turner

Today, we're really grateful to share a conversation with historian John Turner about the brand new biography he's just published: Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.John is a professor of Religious Studies and History at George Mason University. While  not a member of the the Latter-day Saint faith, he has had a particular fascination with the early history of Mormonism, and wrote an earlier biography of Brigham Young. Some of the interpretations and conclusions John draws in his book may differ from our own, but we found this new biography on Joseph to be meticulously researched and engagingly written.In this book, John doesn't aim to settle all debates between Joseph Smith's supporters and his detractors, but with more primary sources available than ever before, he hoped to provide a fuller picture of a figure who continues to shape who we are today. John says that while the question of “Whether God actually spoke to [Joseph] Smith is a matter of faith… there is no question about his prophetic self-conception.”We assume most listeners are familiar with the general contours of Joseph's life, so in this conversation we talked with John about some topics we felt needed more exploration: his family's early hardships and how they might have shaped his resilience as a spiritual leader; what the historical record tells us about the gold plates and Joseph's visions; and whether Joseph truly instigated and lived plural marriage.What struck us most was John's portrayal of Joseph's constant evolution—his willingness to revise, to explore, and to ask better questions. It made us wonder if Joseph's boldness and openness to change could serve as inspiration to us in today's church.We know that talking openly about Joseph—his humanity, his complexity, even his mistakes—can be challenging. But we hope this episode helps create more space for recognizing the humanity of our leaders, both past and present.

This week on Taking Stock Susan Hayes Culleton talks to Michael Aldous and John Turner, authors of 'CEO: The Rise and Fall of Britain's Captains of Industry'. Susan talks to Daniel Murray of the Business Post about why Ireland has a Sovreign Wealth Fund and if economic ill winds might clip its wings. Plus, Kate English of Deloitte on how threatened Tariffs are impacting Global Stock Markets.

In this episode, we dive into Chapter seven of Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet by John G. Turner. We explore early public criticism of Joseph Smith by figures like Abner Cole, the satirical Book of Pukei, and Luman Walters' possible influence. We also examine Joseph's efforts to sell the copyright of the Book of Mormon in Canada, what that reveals about his intentions, and the revelation that supposedly authorized it.We discuss how Joseph's financial motives, revelations, and treatment of Martin Harris raise important questions, and consider the book's early lack of demand—even as Joseph continued to pivot and adapt. From legal troubles and claims of treasure seeking, to his revisions of the Bible and the rise of anti-Masonry, this episode looks at how Joseph's evolving theology and personal ambitions shaped early Mormonism.We also tackle difficult questions around gender and divine authority: Why were no women, including Emma Smith, called as witnesses to the golden plates? What does Emma's role—and her sacrifices—say about the story Joseph told?This is a wide-ranging and thought-provoking installment that challenges the traditional narrative while offering rich historical context.**Topics Include:**- Abner Cole's criticisms & Book of Pukei- Attempt to sell the Book of Mormon copyright in Canada- Revelations and motives: divine or self-serving?- Joseph's treatment of Emma & women's roles- Legal issues & treasure seeking- Bible revisions, anti-Masonry, and theology- Emma's loyalty and legacy___________________YouTubeMormon 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

I've visited some temples recently! "Gospel Tangents" recently hosted a surprise live session, a "late night unannounced edition," much to the delight of its "night owl" viewers. I shared a whirlwind of Temples, Travels, updates, upcoming content, and even some breaking news from various Restorationist traditions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jw_a2PA5jAU Temples, Travels, & Timely Insights! I've been traveling extensively, leading to a "boatload of pictures" and a significant backlog of videos waiting to be edited. Despite the busy schedule, i'm eager to share my experiences: Community of Christ World Conference in Independence: Rick attended and captured his reactions to Stassi Cramm being ordained the new prophet. While there, he met a man from New Zealand (a "Kiwi") and expressed hope for interviews with people from the Temple Lot Church, including Tom from a fundamentalist group and potentially Stassi Cramm herself. Mormon History Association (MHA): This event also proved fruitful, including tours of LDS churches, such as an old one in Ogden and Joseph Soderberg's church where President Hinckley reportedly gained his testimony. Exploring the Strangites in Wisconsin: This trip was a major highlight. I stayed with Bill Shepard, a former guest, and toured various Strangite sites with Gary Weber and David Boice. ◦ A key stop was the Hill of Promise, which the Strangites consider akin to the Hill Cumorah. It's believed to be where James J. Strang found the Voree record, a "short record of the people of Raja Ramor." This record described a people similar to those in the Book of Mormon, with a priesthood structure mirroring Joseph and James's. The Hill of Promise also holds future significance, as Strangite revelations state that Daniel from the Bible will appear there to announce Christ's approaching second coming. ◦ I also visited the site of the unbuilt Strangite temple in Burlington, which was planned to be "quite significant" in size. ◦ Rick also drove by James Strang's house in Burlington, where Strang died three weeks after his assassination on the dock of Lake Michiga. ◦ A fascinating piece of news is that David Boice is moving to Utah at the end of July. Rick plans to visit Beaver Island (Strangite Island) in July or August, noting that while Gary Weber says there's "not a lot to see," one can rent a golf cart for getting around. He also mentioned Vicki Speek is working on a census of the island. ◦ For those unfamiliar, James J. Strang claimed an angelic ordination on the day Joseph Smith died (June 27, 1844). He translated the Voree plates and later the "plates of Laban" (published as the Book of the Law of the Lord). He settled in Burlington, then moved to Beaver Island, where he was crowned king and even served in the Michigan legislature. His efforts to stop Gentiles from selling liquor to Native Americans reportedly led to his assassination with the help of the U.S. Navy. Upcoming Trip to Calgary and Cardston, Alberta: Rick is flying to Calgary for his son's wedding. He plans to make a video about the Cardston Alberta Temple, which was the first international temple for the LDS Church. Some compare it to the Mesa Temple and notes its "pioneer feel" like the Manti Temple. The Cardston Temple's murals are darker, possibly due to varnish, and hopes for a refurbishment once a new temple opens in Lethbridge. Book Giveaways and Exciting New Releases The live session included a book giveaway for "Joseph Fielding Smith a Mormon Theologian," won by Mark Francis. Looking ahead, the channel is celebrating the release of John Turner's new book, "Joseph Smith The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," which launched in June on Amazon. (The contest is over now.) Rick gave away an autographed copy of this book. Potentially "Breaking News" from the Temple Lot Church I discovered some surprising news regarding the Temple Lot Church: they are "going to quit selling the Book of Commandme...

In Part 6 of our Joseph Smith podcast series, we dive deep into Chapter 6: "A Choice Seer." This episode explores the controversies surrounding the Book of Mormon—its origins, witnesses, and textual issues. We examine the arguments for and against its authenticity, its biblical parallels, and Joseph Smith's role as translator vs. author.Topics include:-Were the witnesses in on a scam?-Historicity of the Book of Mormon-Anachronisms and biblical borrowings-Criticism from early figures like Alexander Campbell-Literary structures like chiasmus-Theology, archeology, and universalism-Is the Book of Mormon scripture?A thoughtful, critical, and respectful look at how scholars and believers wrestle with faith, history, and evidence.___________________YouTubeMormon 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're discussing polygamy in John Turner's Joseph Smith Biography and giving away a book! https://youtube.com/live/09QmyE6WweU Don't miss our other conversations with John: https://gospeltangents.com/people/john-turner/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission   Welcome, everyone, to Gospel Tangents Live! Sunday, we were live, giving away a copy of John Turner's acclaimed biography, "The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet." I just wrapped up an amazing interview with Turner. He is a super fun guy. It was certainly an engaging discussion, even touching on unexpected controversies like the gold plates. I'll have a specific focus on the often-debated topic of polygamy. I'll be tackling this subject for an upcoming presentation at Sunstone (University of Utah, Aug 1st) and the John Whitmer Historical Association (Independence, September 20th). Let's break down some of the key points discussed, looking at both the "problematic" and "overwhelming" evidence surrounding Joseph Smith's polygamy. Problematic Polygamy: Unflattering Episodes and Skeptical Points There are several challenging aspects of Joseph Smith's polygamy, as presented in Turner's book: Questioned Revelations: Turner raises questions about the 1831 revelations regarding polygamy to Native Americans. This is partly based on the reaction of Ezra Booth, an early church critic, who, according to Turner, would have made a "bigger deal about polygamy" if such a revelation had been widely known and accepted at the time. Obscurity of Activities: Joseph Smith took "great pains to obscure his polygamy activities," which Turner notes makes it difficult to ascertain the full scope and nature of these practices. Polygamy skeptics often don't acknowledge this challenge. Limited Sexual Relations: Turner believes that sexual relations with plural spouses were limited. I'm working on a probability model to explore how often Joseph and another wife besides Emma should have gotten pregnant. Joseph and Emma had nine children (eight pregnancies), proving Joseph's fertility. Skeptics often jump to extremes, either no sex or sex "every night," with "never a happy medium". Denouncing Adultery: Joseph Smith publicly denounced adulteryon pages 276-277 of Turner's book, a point skeptics often over emphasize. The Nancy Rigdon Incident: This incident, leading to the infamous "Happiness Letter," is discussed on pages 277, 286, and 287. Nancy Rigdon rejected Joseph's marriage proposal in April 1842. John C. Bennett later published the "Happiness Letter". Turner considers Sidney Rigdon's denial that Joseph wrotethe letter (as opposed to denying the allegationsthat Joseph propositioned Nancy) a "weak response," especially since Joseph typically used scribes to write almost everything. The Sarah Pratt and John C. Bennett Incident: Also on pages 286-287, this involves Sarah Pratt (married to Orson Hyde) and John C. Bennett. When Orson Hyde discovered a potential relationship between Sarah and Joseph, he wrote a suicide note. In a subsequent meeting, Orson Pratt (Sarah's husband) reportedly opposed Joseph Smith in a subsequent meeting due to the issue with Sarah Pratt, a well-documented story according to Turner and most historians. Brigham Young's Polygamy Rejection: Brigham Young's plural marriage proposal to Martha Brotherton was rejected, as noted on page 289. This isn't a flattering portrayal of polygamy. These "problematic" cases often involve both pro-polygamy (like Brigham Young) and anti-polygamy (like John C. Bennett or Sarah Pratt) sources. Their agreement on key events "is pretty strong evidence that something happened". Overwhelming Evidence: "Prodigious" Polygamy Points Despite the problematic aspects, John Turner consider "overwhelming evidence" for Joseph Smith's involvement in polygamy: Early Sealings:

British Americans' unquenchable thirst for tea and a looming financial disaster for the East India Company leads to a new crisis in North America when seven tea-laden ships are sent to the colonies in 1773, inspiring Bostonians to dump much of the cargo in Boston Harbor.  Featuring: Benjamin Carp, James Fichter, Deepthi Murali, and Mary Beth Norton. Voice Actors: Craig Gallagher, Margaret Hughes, Grace Mallon, Norman Rodger, Annabelle Spencer, and John Turner. Narrated by Dr. Jim Ambuske. Music by Artlist.io This episode was made possible with support from a 2024 grant from the National Endowment of the Humanities.  Help other listeners find the show by leaving a 5-Star Rating and Review on Apple, Spotify, Podchaser, or our website. Follow the series on Facebook or Instagram. Worlds Turned Upside Down is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

Joseph Smith's arrest for treason in having the Nauvoo Expositor destroyed led to his death. He didn't use habeas corpus to get out of this jam, and it cost him his life. Dr John Turner shares his reactions to Joseph's life. Check out our conversation... https://youtu.be/pcN0sdqR0ws Don't miss our other conversations with John: https://gospeltangents.com/people/john-turner/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission. Recklessness, Revelation, and the Power of Habeas Corpus Joseph Smith, a towering figure in American religious history, saw his life come to a dramatic and tragic end in June 1844. As discussed in this conversation with John Turner, author of "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," the events leading up to his death reveal a complex interplay of political tension, legal maneuverings, and personal choices. A Provocative Path to Disaster The final six months of Joseph Smith's life were marked by increasingly provocative and reckless actions. He engaged in unnecessary fights, denouncing and antagonizing men from the stand during meetings, almost as if "inviting opposition.” His rhetoric and one-on-one conversations with dissenters were "incautious.” While he was under an “incredible amount of stress" due to fears of enemies and potential execution, this stress often led him to respond in unconstructive ways. A key event was the destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor newspaper in May 1844. This act made him vulnerable to his enemies. While some historians like Michael Quinn have suggested the Council of Fifty minutes and negotiations with foreign nations were a bigger concern than polygamy charges in the Expositor, Joseph and his allies used "salty language" for various objections to the paper, including theological innovations, accumulation of political power, and polygamy. It wasn't a single issue, and despite opponents like William Law finding it difficult to break with Joseph, his incendiary behavior prevented reconciliation. Fateful Return to Nauvoo When Governor Thomas Ford of Illinois sent a posse to arrest Joseph Smith in June 1844, Joseph initially fled across the Mississippi River, contemplating leaving Nauvoo and reuniting with his wife, Emma, elsewhere. He had a history of evading arrest. However, he ultimately chose to return to Nauvoo and go to Carthage to face charges related to the Nauvoo Expositor's destruction. Later sources sometimes blame individuals, like Emma, for convincing him to return, not wanting him to abandon her and the family. However, a contemporary letter from Vilate Kimble states that Joseph "sought the will of the Lord and God told him to return.” This indicates Joseph believed his decision to return was a revelation. The Power and Peril of Habeas Corpus Joseph Smith's experience with legal challenges, particularly his use of habeas corpus, is a significant aspect of his later life. Habeas corpus is a legal mechanism that gives an arrested individual an opportunity for a hearing on the legality of their arrest at the earliest stage of the process. Early, Legitimate Use:Joseph used habeas corpuseffectively to avoid arrest on Missouri charges. For example, when attempts were made to extradite him to Missouri starting around 1841 or 1842, he requested and was granted a writ of habeas corpus from a state judge. Stephen Douglas reportedly heard one such case and freed Joseph, ruling the arrest warrant invalid. This demonstrates how the power was "supposed to work.” Nauvoo's Enhanced Powers:In 1842, the Nauvoo City Council began passing statutes that significantly enhanced its ability to issue writs of habeas corpus, aiming to protect Joseph Smith and other residents from arrest on anycharge – whether internal Nauvoo law, state law, or more serious offenses. Nauvoo's own municipal court, over which Joseph, as mayor, could preside,

There's a new biography of Joseph Smith, and author John Turner's approach is new in the world of books about Mormonism's charismatic founder.

We're diving into Nauvoo polygamy & Joseph Smith's many wives. How often did he have sexual relations with his wives? Was it less frequent than many think? John Turner attempts to answer. Check out our conversation... https://youtu.be/1S-ZRA7kFcQ Don't miss our other conversations with John: https://gospeltangents.com/people/john-turner/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Insights into Joseph Smith's Controversial Practice The Nauvoo period (1839-1844) in the history of the Latter-day Saints is a fascinating and often controversial chapter, particularly concerning the practice of plural marriage, or polygamy, by Joseph Smith. Historian John Turner, author of the acclaimed biography "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of American Prophet," sheds light on this complex topic. Nauvoo: A New Beginning and an Acceleration of Vision Following Joseph Smith's escape from jail in Missouri, the Latter-day Saints established a new community in Nauvoo, Illinois. The choice of Nauvoo was largely due to an individual named Isaac Galland, a land speculator who had extensive land holdings on both sides of the Mississippi River in Nauvoo and Iowa. Galland was in contact with church leaders even while Joseph was imprisoned, making the possibility of purchasing these lands an early consideration. Upon arriving in Quincy, Illinois, Joseph Smith quickly pursued these land purchases, and Saints began to gather rapidly on both sides of the Mississippi. Despite facing opposition and being advised by opponents to spread out, Joseph Smith characteristically doubled or tripled down on his vision rather than backing down from setbacks. This resolve led to the quick establishment of Nauvoo, a community that by 1844 rivaled Chicago as the largest city in Illinois. Far from an interruption, Nauvoo represented an "acceleration of Joseph's vision" in the years after 1839. The Astonishing Pace of Plural Marriages It is in this rapidly growing and centralizing community that Joseph Smith's plural marriage practice truly took off. John Turner noted that the pace of Joseph's marriages was "astonishing," with him reportedly taking a dozen wives in 1842 alone. While "monogamy affirmers" or "polygamy skeptics" contend that these events did not occur, most scholars, including John Turner and Larry Foster, agree that the evidence for Joseph Smith's practice of polygamy is "overwhelming". The Evidence: What Do We Know? While it is difficult to precisely date exact timelines or get directly inside Joseph Smith's mind to understand his intentions, there is substantial evidence regarding his polygamous activities. Joseph Smith took pains to keep his plural marriages quiet. However, information comes from: Contemporary Accounts:The William Clayton Journalis described as a "fantastic and extensive contemporary account" that is considered reliable, aligning with other early 1840s sources. Journals kept by Willard Richards and Brigham Young also provide corroborating information. Affidavits and Testimony:Numerous affidavits about Joseph's plural marriages exist, including very late sources like the Temple Lot testimonyfrom a number of his wives and other individuals. Even though the church had a particular purpose in affirming Joseph's polygamy in this legal conflict, testimonies from women like Emily Dow Partridge were "not flattering for Joseph Smith," making it unlikely the church fabricated them. According to Turner, it's an "open and shut case" that Joseph Smith practiced polygamy. Theological Motivations: Getting "All That You Can" Joseph Smith himself did not explicitly articulate a singular reason for the exact number of women he married. However, contextually, and based on what other early Latter-day Saints said about plural marriage during these years, it appears that Joseph connected "the size of an individual's family on earth ...

The origins of polygamy are murky. Was there an 1831 revelation on the topic? What was the nature of the Fanny Alger relationship? We'll also discuss Zion's Camp, and Joseph Smith's dog, Old Major, who caused some issues with the troops. How did Liberty Jail affect Joseph Smith & the Church? John Turner tackles these questions. Check out our conversation... https://youtu.be/v9171F-vXok Don't miss our other conversations with John: https://gospeltangents.com/people/john-turner/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Peering into Joseph Smith's Story We recently had the privilege of delving into the life of Joseph Smith with John Turner, author of the compelling biography, Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. The conversation unpacked some of the most intriguing and lesser-known episodes from Smith's early life, providing valuable context and challenging common narratives. Nuances of the Fanny Alger Controversy One of the topics we explored was the Fanny Alger controversy. While historical sources on this episode are often late or secondhand, making it difficult to write about with confidence, John Turner found persuasive arguments that date Fanny Alger's relationship with Joseph Smith to shortly before she left Kirtland in August or September of 1836. Interestingly, there's been discussion about whether this was an "adoptive sealing." However, John said it's considered unlikely to have been an adoptive sealing because Joseph Smith had not yet fully articulated or developed his understanding of sealing at that time. Oliver Cowdery, a key figure in the early church, certainly didn't view it as such, remaining "very angry about it in early 1838.” Instead, it is most likely to have been "some sort of intimate relationship" that was disturbing to both Oliver Cowdery and Emma Smith. He said It is also considered unlikely to have been a plural marriage. It's worth noting that while sexual impropriety allegations were common against new religious movements, the Fanny Alger controversy, though a "live issue within the church for several years," did not particularly resonate with the church's external critics at the time in the context of plural marriage or polygamy. In fact, the Church's 1835 Declaration on Marriage emphasized monogamy as the standard. Zion's Camp and the Tale of "Old Major" Moving to 1834, we discussed Zion's Camp, Joseph Smith's march to Missouri. While often seen as a significant event for its larger purposes, it also had its lighter — and more human — moments. One such detail involves "Old Major," Joseph Smith's dog. During the challenging and conflict-ridden trip, Old Major didn't get along with another church member, Sylvester Smith (no relation to Joseph). The dog's barking at night and potential attempts to bite Sylvester led to Sylvester speaking "rude things about Joseph Smith's dog" and even wanting to shoot it. In a moment highlighting the "juvenile" but understandable "temper flared" nature of the trip, Joseph Smith reportedly threatened to shoot Sylvester Smith in response. This anecdote underscores that the participants of Zion's Camp were "not all of one heart in mind.” Sylvester Smith later published a confession for opposing Joseph rudely, even managing to say the note was made "under duress.” From a broader perspective, while the spiritual purpose of Zion's Camp — the redemption of Zion — ultimately failed, it was ironically a "very positive thing for many of those who were participants.” Despite Zion not being redeemed and the march stopping short of engaging enemies or reclaiming property, the majority of marchers found their faith strengthened. This was partly because, by accepting the call, they were "further entering into Joseph's story," experiencing "divine promises and chastening and failures" alongside him.

What does John Turner believe about the Golden Plates? Were they made of tin as Dan Vogel asserts? What about the First Vision controversy? Does John think Joseph was a pious fraud? Did Joseph take advantage of Martin Harris? John answers these and other question. Check out our conversation... Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission What Did Joseph Smith Really Have in that Box? Historian John Turner, author of Joseph Smith, The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet, delves into the enduring mystery surrounding Joseph Smith's golden plates and the origins of the Book of Mormon. His insights offer a nuanced perspective, moving beyond simple pronouncements to a historian's critical examination. The Golden Plates: A Historian's Best Judgment When it comes to the golden plates, Turner makes a clear distinction between visionary experiences and material objects. While he acknowledges that understanding Joseph Smith's visions is difficult as a historian, dealing with a physical claim like the golden plates is different. Turner's "best judgment" as a historian is that Joseph Smith did not have actual golden plates. However, he strongly believes Joseph did engage in a "certain amount of subterfuge". Joseph clearly possessed some sort of physical object which he would place in a box, heft around, and at times cover with a linen cloth. Others, including Emma Smith, witnessed an object that seemed like "thin sheets of metal under a linen cloth," suggesting some form of metallic object. For Turner, the simplest explanation for a young man claiming to have a valuable object he can't show to anyone else is that he doesn't have it. This conclusion is also reinforced by his reading of the Book of Mormon as a 19th-century text, rather than an ancient record. If it's a 19th-century text, golden plates aren't necessary, making it "more likely" that the text "flows out of Joseph's literary imagination". Turner emphasizes that this critical examination is not meant to be disrespectful to faithful Latter-day Saints, but rather a serious approach to studying the tradition. The Search for Alternatives: Not Enough Evidence The question of what Joseph might have had in the box has led to various theories: Dan Vogelhas suggested the object might have been made of tin. Sonia Hazard, another scholar, theorizes that Joseph could have encountered printing plates, which served as an inspiration for the project and could have been the object in the box. However, Turner states that there is not enough evidence to support any of these alternative theories. While these are "suggestive possibilities," he concludes, "we can't know. So, I think we have to leave it as a bit of a mystery". He also clarifies that for him, the "absence of evidence for any alternative explanation is [not] evidence for the faithful account". Audacity Over Deception: The Book of Mormon Project Despite his view on the golden plates, Turner doesn't primarily see Joseph Smith as a "fraud," "deceiver," or "impostor". While he acknowledges an "element of deception that gets it off the ground," his main takeaway from the Book of Mormon project is its utter improbability and audacity. Turner describes it as a "hairbrained scheme" that Joseph "pulls off". He points out that it was "utterly unlikely" for a 21-year-old Joseph Smith, without formal education, to embark on such a project and publish a 600-page book. This remarkable literary success, while not a bestseller at the time, certainly had "serious legs". Turner sees this as "an act of audacity" rather than primarily an "act of deception," crediting Joseph Smith with this incredible literary production. Assessing Joseph's Sincerity The question of Joseph Smith's sincerity is complex. Turner generally tries to avoid weighing in on Joseph's sincerity at any given moment,

In this episode, we continue our in-depth series with historian John G. Turner, author of Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. Covering chapter five of his book, we take a deep dive into the claims of the Three and Eight Witnesses to the golden plates. Did they actually see physical plates—or was it a visionary experience?We explore the early translation period, the role of the Whitmer family, the revelations guiding Joseph Smith, and the complicated testimonies of Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, and David Whitmer. Were the golden plates material objects, or were they seen with "spiritual eyes"? We also discuss later accounts, contradictions, and the ongoing debate among scholars and believers.Highlights:The experiences of the Three and Eight WitnessesSpiritual vs. physical claims of the platesTestimonies, contradictions, and controversiesWhat happened to the plates—and the witnesses—afterwardSubscribe for more episodes exploring Joseph Smith's life, early Mormonism, and the origins of the Book of Mormon.⁠Show Notes⁠⁠YouTube00:00:00 Introduction00:07:34 Why are the Whitmer's getting involved? 00:14:28 Joseph Smith covering the plates in a barrel of beans00:20:13 The Whitmer Family00:25:51 The Melchizedek priesthood00:31:31 The experience with the three witnesses00:39:12 Did Gold plates exist?00:42:49 Spiritual eyes vs physical eyes00:45:38 Did the witnesses see physical plates? 01:03:17 The eight witnesses01:10:15 Possible explanation for the witnesses to the golden plates01:25:26 What became of the Eight Witnesses?01:28:22 What became of the golden plates? 01:31:43 How the Book of Mormon gets printed01:49:13 What is coming up next___________________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

Fawn Brodie, Richard Bushman, and Dan Vogel have the 3 most popular biographies on Joseph Smith prior to John Turner's latest. Which is best? John will answer that and we'll discuss the First Vision anachronisms. Check out our conversation... https://youtu.be/BOTVrDQJGbc Don't miss our other conversations with John: https://gospeltangents.com/people/john-turner/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Landscape of Joseph Smith Biographies John Turner is author of "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. Dr. Turner's book enters a field rich with extensive scholarship. He notes that the main biographies over the years include Fawn Brodie's "No Man Knows My History," Richard Bushman's "Rough Stone Rolling," and works by Dan Vogel,[1] Richard Van Wagoner,[2] and Martha Bradley.[3] Fawn Brodie's "No Man Knows My History": Published in 1945, Brodie's work is recognized for her "fantastic writing"and remarkable achievement given her limited access to sources available today. While now "out of date,"it was incredibly popular, with Richard Bushman himself acknowledging its enduring "perch" as a favorite among readers, perhaps due to Brodie's skills as an English major and great writer. She was technically Mormon but very critical of Joseph Smith. Richard Bushman's "Rough Stone Rolling": Dr. Turner expresses "enormous admiration"for Richard Bushman as a person and scholar. Bushman's biography "expertly contextualizes Joseph's life in the culture of the early 19th century United States"and benefits from tremendous access to sources, though notably, it predates the availability of the Joseph Smith Papers. Over the last two decades, "Rough Stone Rolling" has become the "go-to biography for any scholar or seriously interested party in Joseph Smith.” Bushman's work was seen as a more "faithful perspective" in contrast to Brodie's critical stance. Dan Vogel's Contributions: Dr. Turner highlights Dan Vogel as a "really diligent researcher"whose "Early Mormon Documents collection"[4] was an "essential resource for historians"before the Joseph Smith Papers. Vogel's works, including "Joseph Smith, The Making of a Prophet" and "Charisma Under Pressure," mark him as "one of the more significant historians of Mormonism" in this generation. While his books may not have achieved the wide readership of Brodie's or Bushman's, their scholarly value is undeniable. Dr. Turner clarifies that he didn't write his biography because existing ones were "inadequate" or "stink.” Instead, he aimed to write a "different one" that might be "better or does justice to different parts of Joseph's personality.” His approach involved immersing himself in the sources, particularly the Joseph Smith Papers volumes and website, and reading the latest scholarship, rather than directly positioning his work against others. He trusted there would be "room for my perspective from my position.” Unpacking Joseph Smith's Early Life When discussing Joseph Smith's early life, Dr. Turner notes a significant challenge: "we know very little" about the period before 1829. Scarcity of Sources: Most of what is known comes from a small number of sources, or at least only a few that detail events. Lucy Mack Smith's Biography: While a "great source,"Lucy Mack Smith's dictated biography from 1844 (decades after many events) is often the "only source we have to go on,"which presents a "little troublesome" limitation. Joseph Smith's Own Accounts: Joseph himself did not discuss his childhood in any great depth in his histories, only occasionally alluding to it in sermons. Conflicting Recollections: Early accounts of Joseph from Palmyra were often "filed up and divergent," coming from individuals who "were not too impressed with Joseph Smith and his family.” No Prefigured Greatness: Dr. Turner emphasizes that "there was nothing that pr...

Joseph Smith was the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, known by those outside the church during his life and today as the Mormons. But Joseph Smith was many things besides: the child of a struggling family gradually moving westward in search of opportunity, a day laborer, visionary, seer; treasure hunter; translator; revelator; prophet; elder, banker, prisoner, wrestler, real estate speculator, polygamist, Lieutenant General, Master Mason, Mayor, and martyr.“America,” wrote Ralph Waldo Emerson in 1844, “is the country of the future…[a] country of beginnings, of projects, of vast designs and expectations.” My guest John Turner observes that Joseph Smith might not have been what Emerson had in mind when he spoke of new beginnings and bold projects. But those were part of his life, in addition to vast designs and great expectations. Indeed, it is not too much to say that few nineteenth century Americans have an enduring legacy that can compare to Joseph Smith's.Yet John Turner's new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet also describes how this very untypical man was yet absolutely typical of his times. From his religious awakening among the religious revivalism of western New York, to his founding of utopian communities in the midwest, to his dietary concerns, and even to his experience of brutal mob violence that amounted to religious pogroms against his church, Smith's experiences–and those of his followers–were far from atypical. John G. Turner is professor of religious studies and history at George Mason University. His previous book was They Knew They Were Pilgrims: Plymouth Colony and the Contest for American Liberty, which we talked about in Episode 157.For Further Investigation In Episode 181, Sara Patterson and I discussed the practice of Mormon pilgrimage.For a conversation about a very different but equally charismatic and controversial 19th century American, see my conversation in Episode 198 with Bob Elder about John C. Calhoun, whom Elder describes as the "American heretic"; a nice pairing with an American prophet.The Joseph Smith Papers

How did a non-Mormon who teaches in Virginia get interested in Mormon History? John Turner has written the newest biography of Joseph Smith. He is a professor of History at George Mason University and has written not only the pre-eminent biography of Brigham Young, but has a new biography called "Joseph Smith: The Rise & Fall of an American Prophet." We'll discuss both of these amazing biographies and why he chooses to write about these important Mormon figures. Check out our conversation... Don't miss our other conversations with John: https://gospeltangents.com/people/john-turner/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission https://youtu.be/szj5SYdO0wA Dive Deep into Joseph Smith and Brigham Young with Historian John Turner! Are you a fan of Mormon history, science, and theology? Then you won't want to miss the latest interview on Gospel Tangents, featuring renowned East Coast scholar Dr. John Turner. Rick sat down with Dr. Turner to discuss his brand-new book, "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," which is set to release on Amazon on June 17th. Meet the Historian: Dr. John Turner Dr. John Turner is a professor at George Mason University in Northern Virginia. Turner's academic journey is quite interesting: He completed his undergraduate degree in History and German at Middlebury College in Vermont. He then pursued his PhD in US History at the University of Notre Dame. Interestingly, he took a detour during his PhD to earn a Master of Divinity at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, an experience he found helpful for writing about religious experience and doctrine with more information and sensitivity. Turner's interest in Latter-day Saint history was sparked by meeting "extremely winsome and engaging personalities" like Patrick Mason and Matt Grow while at Notre Dame. He also realized that the Latter-day Saint story was a bit of local history for him, having grown up near Palmyra, New York, "where it all began." Although his dissertation focused on American evangelicalism, he sought to learn new things for his second project and found the Joseph Smith and Brigham Young eras "so fascinating.” Non-Mormon Scholar's Perspective on Mormon History Dr. Turner has authored multiple books on Mormonism, including "Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet" and "The Mormon Jesus," in addition to his new Joseph Smith biography. As a non-Mormon (he identifies as Trinitarian), Turner notes a key difference in his approach: he can express his conclusions and share his findings without worrying about "an ecclesiastical reaction" or "getting excommunicated," which might be a concern for Latter-day Saint scholars. He is "pretty single-minded" when working on a book, focusing on one project at a time. Inspiration Behind the Joseph Smith Biography Turner found it "a really good time to take on a Jo Smith biography"11. His primary motivations for writing about Joseph Smith, especially after his Brigham Young book, were twofold12: Engaging Foundational Questions: Writing about Brigham Young allowed him to largely "take for granted" core beliefs and events, but with Joseph Smith, it was an "opportunity and a challenge to return to that... foundational time period" and "engage some hard questions". These include questions about golden plates, divine messages, and Joseph's motivations for plural marriage. Joseph Smith as a Biographical Subject: Turner describes Joseph Smith as a "great biographical subject" – a "mirthful, colorful man" who is "energetic and dynamic." His public life, spanning essentially 15 years, was "packed" with events, demanding a "fast-paced story". Turner also lavishes praise on the Joseph Smith Papers project, calling it "fantastic" and an "enormously useful" resource that provided a "huge head start" due to its accurate transcriptions, images,

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 NotesYouTubeMormon 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 Podcasts⁠⁠Social Media:⁠⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Discord⁠⁠Contact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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.___________________YouTubeMormon 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

George Mason University religious studies department chair John Turner teaches a class on the history of Islam and Judaism in America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 versionsTreasure digging and supernatural claimsThe influence of revivalist cultureEarly church documents and evolving theologyTurner's secular interpretation of Joseph Smith's story___________________YouTubeMormon 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 PodcastsSocial Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the DiscordContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Join us for the very first episode of a new podcast called Joseph Smith: The Podcast - with Dr. John G. Turner.___________________YouTubeMormon 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

As the 2025 federal election barrels toward the finish line, three generations of Prairie political minds sit down for a lively conversation about the campaign's final stretch. West of Centre guest host Jim Brown is joined by Shannon Greer, a Calgary-based strategist and proud millennial; Malcolm Bird, a Gen X political science professor from Winnipeg; and Douglas Richardson, a Saskatoon lawyer, grandfather and former chief of staff to John Turner. Together, they hand out "report cards" to the major party leaders, assessing everything from campaign vibes to how effectively they've targeted different generations of voters. From young voters swinging Conservative to baby boomers sticking with the Liberals, the panel debates whether these shifting allegiances are rooted in hope, anger or economic anxiety.

Welcome to the Scale with Strive podcast, the place where you come to listen to some of the world's most influential leaders of the SaaS industry.

Suffering Together for the Sake of Christ - Philippians 1:27-30 - John Turner

Back when North American free trade was still just an idea, Liberal leader John Turner opposed it. He warned that handing over the "economic levers" could lead to a loss of Canada's political independence. Brian Mulroney won the election and free trade brought Canada all kinds of prosperity. But now? Well, we explore why Turner's ideas are having an "I told you so" moment. 

Hello Interactors,The land on which we stand can demand where we politically stand. But what happens when that land shifts, shakes, burns or blows away? Recent Southern U.S. floods displaced thousands. Disasters don't just destroy — they can redraw political lines. With second round of Trumpster fires deepening divides, geography and ideology matter more than ever. As climate crises, economic upheaval, and political struggles intensify, the question isn't just where people live — but what they'll fight for. History shows that when the ground shifts, so does power.SHIFTING LANDS AND LOYALTIESFrom fertile fields to frenzied financial hubs, geography molds the mindset of the masses. Where people live shapes what they fear, fight for, and find familiar. Farmers in the Great Plains worry about wheat yields and water rights, while coastal city dwellers debate rent control and rising tides.But political geography isn't just about climate and crops — it's about power, privilege, and the collective making of place. No space is neutral; as evidenced by the abrupt renaming of an entire gulf. History and the present are filled with examples of territories being carved and controlled, gerrymandered, and gentrified.The recent floods in the South serve as a stark reminder of how geography has historically upended political identity. Especially during Black History Month. The Mississippi River Flood of 1927 was a devastating deluge that displaced thousands of Black sharecroppers, washing away not only homes but also old political loyalties. The Republican-controlled federal government, led by President Calvin Coolidge, took a hands-off approach, refusing to allocate federal aid and instead relying on Secretary of Commerce Herbert Hoover to coordinate relief efforts through the Red Cross.However, aid distribution was dominated by white Southern landowners, who withheld resources from Black communities. They forced many into quasi-forced labor camps under the guise of relief. Hoover, later touting his role in disaster response to win the 1928 presidency, was ultimately seen by many Black voters as complicit in their mistreatment. This failure accelerated Black voters' gradual shift away from the Republican Party, a realignment that would deepen under FDR's New Deal in the 1930s. The flood was not just a natural disaster — it was a political reckoning. Who received help and who was abandoned shaped party loyalties for generations to come.Yet, history proves that political realignments are rarely one-sided or uniform. While Black voters were shifting toward the Democratic Party, another Southern political identity crisis was brewing. Southern white conservatives — longtime Democrats due to the party's historical ties to segregation — began their own political migration in the mid-to-late 20th century.The Civil Rights Movement and desegregation led many white Southerners to feel alienated from the Democratic Party, pushing them toward what was once unthinkable — the Republican Party. This shift cemented a racialized realignment, with Black voters backing Democrats and Southern white conservatives reshaping the GOP into today's right-wing stronghold.Both political shifts were responses to crisis — one to environmental disaster and racial exclusion, the other to social change and perceived status loss. The fact that geography remained constant but political identities flipped highlights a crucial truth: where people live matters, but how they respond to change depends on identity, history, and power.The political path of any place isn't just shaped by its space — it's who claims the land, who crafts the law, and who casts a crisis as chaos or cause.SORTED, SEPARATED, AND STUCKGeography shapes political identity but doesn't dictate it. Human agency, economics, and psychology influence where people live and how they vote. Over time, self-sorting creates ideological enclaves, deepening polarization instead of fostering realignment.Psychologists Henri Tajfel and John Turner's Social Identity Theory explains why people align with in-groups and see out-groups as threats, as identity shapes self-esteem and belonging. This leads to in-group favoritism, out-group bias, and polarization, especially when power or resources feel like a zero-sum game.But Optimal Distinctiveness Theory (ODT) adds another layer to this understanding. Developed by Marilynn Brewer, building on Social Identity Theory, ODT proposes that people need to feel a sense of belonging to a group while also maintaining individuality within it. This balancing act between assimilation and uniqueness explains why political identities are not just about partisanship — they encompass culture, lifestyle, and even geography. Individuals self-sort both by community and distinction within their chosen political and social environments.Modern political sorting has made partisanship an all-encompassing identity. It aligns with race, religion, and even consumer habits. This process has been amplified by geography, as people increasingly move to communities where they feel they “fit in” while also distinguishing themselves within their political faction. ODT helps explain why urban progressives might distinguish themselves through niche ideological positions (e.g., Socialists in Brooklyn vs. Tech libertarians in San Francisco), while rural conservatives in swing states may lean into Christian nationalism or libertarianism (e.g. Christian nationalists in rural Pennsylvania vs. Tea Party libertarians in rural Wisconsin).American political power is unevenly distributed. The Senate majority can be won with just 17% of the population, and the Electoral College inflates rural influence. The 10 smallest states hold 3% of the population but 20% of Senate seats and 6% of electoral votes. This imbalance amplifies rural conservative power, giving certain regions outsized political sway.ODT also helps explain why political polarization has deepened over time rather than softened with economic shifts. Historically, political realignments occurred when crisis moments forced cross-cutting alliances — like when poor white and Black farmers joined forces during the Populist Movement of the 1890s to challenge banking and railroad monopolies.However, these coalitions often fell apart due to racial and regional pressures. The Populist Party was ultimately absorbed into the Democratic Party's white Southern wing, leaving Black farmers politically stranded. They still are. Around 1890 Black farmers made up an estimated 14% of farmers in America, now it's fewer than 2% due to racist lending practices, discriminatory federal policies, land dispossession, and systemic barriers to credit and resources.Today, realignments are rare because identity-based partisanship satisfies both belonging and distinctiveness (ODT). Rural conservatives see themselves not just as Republicans but as defenders of a distinct way of life, reinforcing identity through regional pride, gun rights, and religion. Urban liberals, meanwhile, develop sub-identities — progressives, moderates, democratic socialists — within the broader Democratic Party. This illusion of uniformity masks deep internal ideological divides.This sorting shapes where people live, what they watch, and which policies they support. The false consensus effect deepens political silos, as rural conservatives and urban progressives assume their views are widely shared. When elections defy expectations, the result is shock, anger, and further retreat into ideological camps.This explains why U.S. political alignments resist economic and geographic shifts that once drove realignments. Where hardship once built coalitions, modern partisanship acts as a psychological refuge. The question is whether climate change, automation, or mass migration will disrupt these patterns — or cement them. Will today's anxieties redraw party lines, or will political sorting persist, turning geography into a fortress for the familiar, deepening division and partisan pride?FROM REALITY TV TO ALTERNATE REALITYIf geography and identity sketch borders of polarization, then media is the Sharpie darkening the divide. The digital age hardens these political divides, where confirmation bias runs rampant and algorithms push people to one side of the ideological line or the other.In a recent interview, political psychologist and polarization expert Liliana Hall Mason, known for her research on identity-based partisanship and rising affective polarization, recalled a 2012 TiVO study that analyzed TV viewing habits of Democrats and Republicans. The study found that among the top 10 most-watched TV shows for each party, there was zero overlap — Democrats and Republicans were consuming completely separate entertainment. Cultural, and presumably geographical, divergence was already well underway in the 2010s.Republicans favored shows like Duck Dynasty while Democrats gravitated toward satirical cartoons like Family Guy​. While it predates TiVO, I was more of a King of Hill fan, myself. I thought Hank Hill humanized conservative rural life without glorifying extremism while critiquing aspects of modernity without being elitist. Hulu has announced its return sometime this year. But Republicans and Democrats today don't even consume the same reality — they don't watch the same news, follow the same influencers, trust the same institutions, or even shop at the same grocery stores. Will both tune into watch Hank Hill walk the tight rope of a pluralistic suburban American existence?This media-driven fragmentation fuels geographic sorting, as political preferences influence where people choose to live. A person might leave a liberal city for a conservative suburb, or vice versa, based on what media tells them about their “kind of people.” Over time, partisan enclaves harden, reducing exposure to opposing viewpoints and making political shifts less likely.When political identities are so deeply entrenched that losing an election feels like an existential crisis, the risk of political violence rises. Mason's research on rising authoritarian attitudes and partisan animosity shows that political opponents aren't just seen as rivals anymore — they're seen as enemies.January 6th, 2021, wasn't an anomaly — it was the inevitable explosion of years of identity-based sorting and status-threat rhetoric. The rioters who stormed the Capitol weren't just protesting an election loss; they saw themselves as defenders of a nation slipping from their grasp, fueled by a deep-seated fear of demographic change, progressive policies, and shifting cultural power.Studies show that people who feel their group is losing influence are more likely to justify violence, particularly when they perceive existential threats to their way of life. Right-wing media reinforced these fears, political leaders legitimized them, and geographic and social sorting further entrenched them. In an era where partisan identity feels like destiny, and grievance is turned into a rallying cry, the potential for future political violence remains dangerously real.History teaches us that political geography isn't destiny — alignments shift when necessity forces cooperation. As the world faces climate crises, economic instability, and mass migration, new political realignments will emerge. The question is whether they will lead to solidarity or further strife.At the end of the Mason interview, she mentions the role anger and enthusiasm play in political motivations. This concept is part of the Norwegian philosopher and social theorist, Jon Elster, who is best known for his work on rational choice theory, emotions in politics, and historical institutionalism. He has written extensively on how emotions like anger, enthusiasm, resentment, and hope shape political behavior and social movements, especially in historical contexts like the French Revolution and modern populist movements.Anger mobilizes movements, making people willing to fight for change or push back against it. The Populist farmers of the 1890s, the labor activists of apartheid South Africa, and the displaced communities of Partition-era India all channeled rage into resistance. At the same time, enthusiasm — a belief in the possibility of transformation — is what sustains coalitions beyond crisis moments. The formation of the EU, the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland, and Brazil's leftist labor movement all survived because hope outlasted grievance.Political movements often begin with anger, but only survive through enthusiasm. This is why some burn out quickly (Occupy Wall Street, the Tea Party) while others reshape history (the Civil Rights Movement, Brexit, Trump's populism). Looking ahead, the political geography of the future will be shaped by whichever emotion proves stronger. Will fear and resentment deepen polarization, or will shared enthusiasm for economic justice, environmental sustainability, and democratic resilience create new cross-cutting alliances? The past suggests both are possible. But if history has one lesson, it's that the lines on the map are never as fixed as they seem — and neither are the people who live within them.Bibliography This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit interplace.io

Embrace Our Opportunity - Acts 25:23 - 26:2 - John Turner

Steve Paikin is back, and he has a new book about former prime minister John Turner, as well as a wonderful story about having dinner with the late Gordon Lightfoot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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John Turner is an avid listener to our HRN podcasts and is a board member of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club–and a trail ambassador. John completed a five-year section hike in 2022, and is here to share his story with us. We have a wide-ranging chat; not only about his hike, but his work with GATC, and his new book, Killing the Buddha on the Appalachian Trail. John's story is of a man who came late to our wonderful trail, and a man giving back to the trail he fell in love with. That's quite a calling. You can check out John's book at Killing the Buddha on the Appalachian Trail while he can also be found on his website at The Blue Ridge Hiker and on Facebook at The Blue Ridge Hiker . If you'd like to learn more about The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, check out their website at Home - Georgia Appalachian Trail Club Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman's POV and a woman's voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you'd like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail, or on Emily's website, at Happy Hiking. I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I've been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters %. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don't forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer There, you'll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I'm sure several of you say, “I could do that. I've got an awesome story to tell.” You're the person we need to hear from. If you'd like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I'll be in touch. Come on the show! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at Hiking Radio Network . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. Additionally, you can “Zelle” us a donation to steve@hikingradionetwork.com. It works! Trust me! If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

More than 400 years ago this month, a group of English protestants—separatists from the Church of England—landed in the New World in search of religious freedom. But what did freedom really mean to these pilgrims?

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of call-to-actions (CTAs) with special guest John Turner, co-founder of SeedProd. John shares seven actionable tips to craft CTAs that grab attention, inspire action, and ultimately drive conversions. Whether you're running a WordPress website, an online store, or a blog, this episode is packed with insights to help you optimize your landing pages and boost results.Key Takeaways:Add One Clear CTA Per PageAvoid overwhelming your visitors with too many choices. One CTA per page is key to reducing "choice paralysis" and guiding users toward the action you want them to take.Fun Fact: Pages with a single CTA can boost clicks by 371% and sales by up to 1,617%.Use Strong, Action-Oriented LanguageAction words like “Get,” “Start,” “Subscribe,” and “Download” are proven to drive more engagement.Pro Tip: Add urgency or scarcity to encourage immediate action (e.g., “Claim Your Spot Today!”).Focus on BenefitsHighlight what the user gains by clicking the CTA. For example, instead of "Sign Up," say "Sign Up to Unlock Exclusive Perks."Make Your CTA Buttons PopUse contrasting colors, bold text, and even small icons like arrows to make your CTA stand out visually.Position CTAs for Maximum VisibilityPlace CTAs above the fold so they're immediately seen. On longer pages, repeat the CTA at key intervals.Support Your CTA with Short, Persuasive CopyAdd a compelling sentence near the CTA to emphasize urgency or value, like "Limited Time Offer: Ends Today!"Test and Optimize Your CTAsRun A/B tests on different versions of your CTAs, tweaking wording, design, or placement to find what works best.Tools like heatmaps and analytics can help identify how visitors interact with your CTAs.Resources Mentioned:SeedProd – John Turner's WordPress plugin for creating high-converting landing pages.Unbounce – A tool for A/B testing landing pages and CTAs.OptinMonster – Example of effective CTA supporting copy.Square – Referenced for examples of clear and concise CTAs.Action Steps for Listeners:Audit your existing CTAs. Are they clear, actionable, and visually appealing?Choose one page to optimize using the tips shared in this episode.Try A/B testing a small change, like the button color or CTA wording, and track the results.Enjoyed the episode?Leave us a review and let us know which CTA tip you're excited to try! Don't forget to subscribe for more WordPress tips and strategies.Connect with Us:Website: WPBeginnerSocial Media: Twitter, FacebookIf you liked this episode, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for WordPress video tutorials. Or watch our Podcasts on YouTube. You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook.

Time in the cabinets of Pierre Trudeau, John Turner and Jean Chretien allowed Axworthy to see power close up.

Neil Manthorp is joined by the former England fast bowler Steve Harmison to look back at the first 2 ODIs between the West Indies and England, as Liam Livingstone sets up a series decider with his maiden ODI century. They hear from the England captain, and discuss if that innings in Antigua was the coming of age for him. They also hear exclusively from the England bowler John Turner after taking his first international wickets, and England batter Jordan Cox ahead of making his Test debut in New Zealand. They are also joined by the New Zealand captain Tom Latham to look back at their historic 3-0 series clean sweep over India, and ahead to next month's Test series against England, with every ball live and exclusive on talkSPORT 2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is brought to you by Glacier Rifle Company Discover the precision and craftsmanship behind ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Glacier Rifle Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a third-generation family business from Hamilton, New Zealand, with over 63 years of experience in the aerospace, satellite, and defense industries. Legacy of Precision: For over six decades, Glacier Rifle Company has been a leader in precision engineering, producing mission-critical components for various industries. Innovative Rifle Design: Their custom rifles, like the GRC Bush Hunter and GRC Mountain Hunter, are crafted using advanced materials like titanium and carbon fiber, ensuring unmatched accuracy, lightweight build, and reliability. Customization at Its Best: Glacier Rifle Company offers bespoke customization options to meet the specific needs of hunters and shooters, making each rifle not just a tool but a statement. Why Choose Glacier Rifle Company? Learn More and Connect: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Glacier Rifle Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@glacier_rifle_company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Glacier Rifle Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out their innovative products and experience the perfect blend of tradition and modern technology. Thank you, Glacier Rifle Company, for supporting The Big Game Records Series. Explore more with GRC. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JOIN THE STAG ROAR COMMUNITY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Time in the cabinets of Pierre Trudeau, John Turner and Jean Chretien allowed Axworthy to see power close up.

The Herle Burly was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as CN Rail.A helluva guest on the pod today. Because he's an historic guest. The Honourable Lloyd Axworthy is with me today. Elder statesman and academic. PhD in Politics from Princeton University. MLA in the Manitoba Legislature for 6 years, before embarking on a 21-year career in the House of Commons – more than half of those in the cabinets of Pierre Trudeau, John Turner and Jean Chretien.Minister of Foreign Affairs.Minister of Employment and Immigration.Minister of Labour. Among other portfolios.In his post-political life, President of the University of Winnipeg. And in 2015, promoted to Companion of The Order of Canada. Mr. Axworthy has a new book which I highly recommend: “Lloyd Axworthy: My Life in Politics”.No exaggeration to say he was a key figure in some of the most important stories of the last half century. It's a lot to cover in an hour. I want to talk about his view on cities, given his pre-political academic life as an acclaimed urbanist. Getting elected in Winnipeg. And then his time in Ottawa – with a focus on 3 areas: The Western Grain Transportation Act, Modernizing our Social Security System, and the Land Mines Treaty. And then a little about current politics and his post political life.Thank you for joining us on #TheHerleBurly podcast. Please take a moment to give us a rating and review on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.Watch episodes of The Herle Burly via Air Quotes Media on YouTube.

Scott MacKenzie hosts John Turner, CEO of Gafcon Digital, to discuss the application of digital twins in data centers and the construction industry. Turner emphasizes the inefficiencies in current construction processes due to silos and the need for a digital building lifecycle. He highlights the importance of digitizing construction through BIM and integrating data from various sources like reality capture. Turner explains the benefits of a digital twin, including predictability in safety, cost, and schedule, and mentions that buildings consume 41% of the energy in the US. He advocates for a transformational approach to organizational change management to achieve these efficiencies. Action Items [ ] Send paper on digital twins and building energy usage. [ ] Reach out to John Turner at jturner@gafcondigital.com to discuss further. Outline Introduction and Overview of Industrial Talk Podcast Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and trends. Scott highlights the importance of the podcast in educating and collaborating within the industrial community. The episode features John Turner, CEO of Gafcon Digital, who is a leading voice in the world of digital twins. Scott encourages listeners to visit the Industrial Talk YouTube channel for additional slides and information. Introduction of John Turner and Gafcon Digital Scott MacKenzie welcomes John Turner to the podcast and asks for a brief introduction about himself and his company. John explains that Gafcon Digital focuses on developing a digital building lifecycle to improve efficiency in design, construction, and operations. John emphasizes the inefficiencies in the current design-construction-operational process due to silos and legal enforcement. Gafcon Digital targets serial builder-owner operators, particularly hyperscalers, retail, and life science sectors. Standardization and Efficiency in Construction Scott and John discuss the concept of standardizing construction processes, using McDonald's as an analogy for optimized design and building processes. John compares the construction industry's lack of standardization to the automotive industry's use of lean techniques. Scott and John explore the potential for standardizing data centers and other large-scale construction projects. John introduces the idea of digitizing the construction process to create a foundational data model using BIM (Building Information Modeling). Digital Twin and Reality Capture John explains the importance of digitizing the construction process to create a foundational data model using BIM. He discusses the role of BIM in integrating 2D, 3D, cost, schedule, embodied carbon, and document properties. John introduces the concept of reality capture, including 360 cameras, photogrammetry, laser scanning, and LIDAR, to bring real-time data into the design process. John differentiates between a visual twin and a digital twin, explaining the real-time monitoring and control capabilities of a digital twin. Challenges and Organizational Change Management Scott and John discuss the challenges of shifting the construction industry to a more efficient, digital-twin-based approach. John emphasizes that the transformation has more to do with organizational change management than technology. He explains the need for serial builders to change their processes to scale efficiently, especially for data centers. John outlines the three-step evolution of the construction process: planning, design, construction, and operation, with

Henry Moeran speaks to TMS's pundits at Old Trafford on the state of England's white ball sides ahead of the ODI series with Australia, starting on Thursday.Among those giving their viewpoints are Michael Vaughan, Phil Tufnell, Sir Alastair Cook, Isa Guha and Dawid Malan.And we also hear from four of the new faces in England's squad: John Turner, Jordan Cox, Jacob Bethell and Dan Mousley on their experiences so far.

Jonathan Agnew is alongside Alastair Cook, Steven Finn & Kevin Howells to discuss which young players could become England stars in the future. Following England's white ball squad announcement, 5 uncapped players have been called up with Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali the big names to miss out. They look at Essex batter Jordan Cox, Hampshire seamer John Turner and Leicestershire left-arm bowler Josh Hull. Whilst also focussing on Warwickshire's Dan Mousley and Jacob Bethell.

In this electrifying episode of the High Performance Zone, Gucci dives into an inspiring conversation with the executive producers of the new IMAX film, “The Blue Angels,” Greg “Boss” Wooldridge and Rob "Sticks" Stone. Greg, a three-time leader of the Blue Angels, and Rob, an acclaimed producer, share their journey of creating this groundbreaking documentary that captures the essence of the Blue Angels like never before. Get ready to soar through the skies and discover the dedication, challenges, and triumphs behind this extraordinary film.Key Takeaways:- (00:01:03) The Journey to Creating “The Blue Angels”.Boss and Rob share the five-year journey of making the film, highlighting the dedication, perseverance, and setbacks they faced. They discuss the importance of showcasing the behind-the-scenes efforts that make the Blue Angels a symbol of excellence.-(00:02:30) Capturing the Blue Angels' Essence.Rob elaborates on the challenge and privilege of capturing the Blue Angels' daily excellence on film. He emphasizes the impact of new technology and the importance of showing the human side of these elite aviators.-(00:05:05) Overcoming Challenges and Gaining Trust.Boss and Rob recount the obstacles they encountered, from navigating Navy protocols to securing funding, and how they built trust with the Blue Angels team to film authentic, high-stakes moments.- (00:10:23) Technical Mastery and Cinematic Excellence.Boss discusses the technical aspects of filming with IMAX cameras and the meticulous planning required to capture the Blue Angels' maneuvers.(00:10:39) Experiencing the Magic of IMAX.The conversation turns to the visceral experience of watching the Blue Angels on the big screen. Boss shares an anecdote about introducing IMAX executive John Turner to the Blue Angels' awe-inspiring live performance.(00:13:00) The Trust and Professionalism of the Blue Angels.John, Boss, and Rob delve into the trust built between the filmmakers and the Blue Angels, essential for capturing the high-octane footage without compromising safety.(00:31:33) Reflecting on the Journey.The episode wraps up with reflections on the journey and the impact of the film. Boss and Rob express their gratitude for the opportunity to showcase the Blue Angels' dedication and excellence to a wider audience.Key Quotes: “This project was years in the making and involved a lot of meticulous planning, but the result is a film that truly captures the essence of the Blue Angels.” It's one thing to see them in the air; it's an amazing show. But having the opportunity to show the public what goes into how the Blue Angels do what they do and the level of excellence they meet on a day-to-day basis was really just a tremendous privilege.” Join the ConversationTune in to this episode for an inside look at the making of “The Blue Angels” and be inspired by the stories of perseverance, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Don't miss out on experiencing the magic of the Blue Angels —it's a journey that will leave you saying, “Glad to be here!”For more inspiring conversations and insights, visit John Gucci Foley's website and join the High Performance Zone community.

Before the American Revolution, Sephardic Jews like Aaron Lopez found economic opportunity and religious freedom in Newport, Rhode Island, but not full citizenship, nor the right to vote. What promise did an independent United States hold for American Jews and their hope that President George Washington would preside over a new nation that “to bigotry gives no sanction?” Featuring: Yair Rosenberg Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

The California gold rush enticed many Jewish merchants west in search of prosperity in the mid-19th century, but their success drew unwelcome attention from state legislators, who passed laws requiring all businesses to close on the Christian Sabbath. Meanwhile, in the early Jim Crow South, Jewish peddlers and landowners faced resentment and violence, sometimes lethal. Featuring: Jeremy Zeitlin, David Sehat, Rachel Kranson, Zev Eleff, Jonathan Sarna, and Patrick Mason Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

In Gilded Age America, immigration from Europe rapidly grew the nation's Jewish population, convincing many Americans that Jews were a dangerous and undesirable race. As lawmakers debated ways to restrict immigration, business owners denied service to Jews in hotels, resorts, and other public accommodations.    Featuring: Mitchel Hart, Zev Eleff, Britt Tevis, Jonathan Sarna, and Alan Kraut  Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

At the turn of the 20th century, conspiracy theories about Jews ran rampant in American society. Many Americans – from the famed automaker Henry Ford to officers in the U.S. Army – believed that Jews controlled media, dominated international banking, and were conspiring to foment a communist revolution in the United States. Featuring: Yair Rosenberg, Victoria Saker Woeste, and Joseph Bendersky Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

Despite the rise of Nazi Germany in the 1930s and the threat of renewed war in Europe, most Americans remained resolutely opposed to higher levels of Jewish immigration. Even as Jews faced persecution and genocide, antisemitic beliefs delayed American efforts to assist Jewish refugees and resettle concentration camp survivors, with tragic results. Featuring: Bradley Hart, Rebecca Eberling, and Joseph Bendersky Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

In post-war America, Bess Myerson became the first Jewish woman to win the Miss America competition, but she confronted bigotry and exclusion far more daunting than any pageant. Meanwhile, changing demographics of urban neighborhoods and the emerging civil rights movement led to unprecedented tensions between American Jews and African Americans in New York. Featuring: Kristen Fermaglich, Pamela Nadell, Britt Tevis, Jonathan Greenblatt, Jerald Podair, Charles Isaacs, and Glen Harris  Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

In the early 1970s, two powerful men, President Richard Nixon and evangelist Billy Graham, held secret Oval Office conversations about Jews. “America's Pastor” and the 37th President of the United States didn't consider themselves antisemites, but they dredged up stereotypes and traded in conspiracy theories shared by many Americans about the “good Jews”:  Jews who were too smart, too powerful, and all too willing to corrupt the nation's morals. Featuring: Yaakov Ariel, Daniel Hummel, and Jonathan Greenblatt Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

In the decades following the Six-Day War in 1967, anti-Zionism gained momentum in American academia and led to the rise of the boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement on college campuses. Nearly sixty years later, the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, revealed how antisemitism and progressive critiques of Israel's war in Gaza could find a home in American universities. Featuring: Rachel Fish, Cary Nelson, Michael Feuer, Alana Mondschein, Adena Kirstein, and Yair Rosenberg  Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

In August 2017, white supremacists marched on Charlottesville, VA to silence the Jews, Black Americans, and other minorities whom they feared would “replace us.” The Unite the Right Rally was one of many ominous signs of persistent antisemitic attitudes and violence in the United States, but in this history of hate, some Americans found reason to hope. Featuring: Yair Rosenberg, Jonathan Greenblatt, Mehnaz Afridi, and David Sorkin  Narrated by Mark Oppenheimer Written by John Turner and Lincoln Mullen  This series is made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation and the David Bruce Smith Foundation.  Antisemitism, U.S.A. is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.