Podcast appearances and mentions of Joseph Smith

Welcome to Episode 30 of our series The Joseph Smith Podcast with Dr. John Turner where we discuss chapters from his new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”In this episode, we dive further into Chapter 24 (“Upper Rooms”) from John Turner's work and unpack the origins of the LDS Relief Society in May of 1842 –right in the middle of Joseph Smith's secret practice of polygamy. We explore whether the Relief Society was meant to empower women, function as a stepping stone to priesthood-like authority, or help manage rumors and moral fallout from Nauvoo's growing scandals.From Emma Smith's complicated position, to whispered accusations, to the infamous “Happiness Letter,” this conversation traces how secrecy, power, and polygamy collide –and what it all says about Joseph Smith's character. We also look at whistleblowers, public denials, internal investigations (or lack thereof), and how victims and critics were treated when scandals became impossible to contain. This is part Mormon history, part true crime, and part moral reckoning –with big questions about leadership, secrecy, and accountability. Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt 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

The Murder Of Joseph SmithJump To The Ad-Free Safe House EditionEpisode 466 is the story of John C. Elliott, the Ohio woodcutter turned political assassin who rode 500 miles to execute a prophet. Hiding as a schoolmaster, Elliott was arrested and set free by Joseph Smith himself. Discover the man history forgot.Hear More Stories About CAPERS AND CONSPIRACIESBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crime-historian--2909311/support.You can pay more if you want to, but rent at the Safe House is still just a buck a week, and you can get access to over 400 ad-free episodes from the dusty vault, Safe House Exclusives, direct access to the Boss, and whatever personal services you require.We invite you to our other PULPULAR MEDIA podcasts:If disaster is more your jam, check out CATASTROPHIC CALAMITIES, telling the stories of famous and forgotten tragedies of the 19th and 20th centuries. What could go wrong? Everything!For brand-new tales in the old clothes from the golden era of popular literature, give your ears a treat with PULP MAGAZINES with two new stories every week.

Was Joseph Smith's relationship with Fanny Alger an early plural marriage, a sexless sealing, or a scandalous sexual affair? Long before Nauvoo polygamy, secret sealings, or theological justifications, there was Fanny Alger; a teenage girl living in Joseph and Emma Smith's home in Kirtland, Ohio. When the relationship was discovered, it triggered scandal, apostasy, and… Read More »Joseph Smith & Fanny Alger: Barely Scraping By

Was Joseph Smith's relationship with Fanny Alger an early plural marriage, a sexless sealing, or a scandalous sexual affair? Long before Nauvoo polygamy, secret sealings, or theological justifications, there was Fanny Alger; a teenage girl living in Joseph and Emma Smith's home in Kirtland, Ohio. When the relationship was discovered, it triggered scandal, apostasy, and… Read More »Joseph Smith & Fanny Alger: Barely Scraping By The post Joseph Smith & Fanny Alger: Barely Scraping By appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

Was Joseph Smith's relationship with Fanny Alger an early plural marriage, a sexless sealing, or a scandalous sexual affair? Long before Nauvoo polygamy, secret sealings, or theological justifications, there was Fanny Alger; a teenage girl living in Joseph and Emma Smith's home in Kirtland, Ohio. When the relationship was discovered, it triggered scandal, apostasy, and one of the earliest crises in Mormon leadership. In this episode, we start by taking a look into the life of Fanny Alger sharing details of her life that are little known even to those familiar with Mormon history. We then examine every major historical source connected to the Fanny Alger story including letters, later reminiscences, church disciplinary records. Then onto the Apologetics and what they are trying to resolve. And lastly we share something that hasn’t been used by either side in this discussion and this you won’t want to miss. We ask the uncomfortable questions: • Why did Oliver Cowdery call the incident a “dirty, nasty, filthy scrape”? • Why did church leaders discipline Cowdery for accusing Joseph of adultery — without denying the accusation itself? • Why does Fanny Alger quietly disappear from official church records for decades? • And do apologetic claims that “we can't know what happened” actually hold up? We also follow Fanny's life after Mormonism; her marriage, property ownership, and long, stable adulthood and ask what her silence might tell us about power, authority, and who controls the narrative. This is not folklore. This is not anti-Mormon spin. This is history read carefully. RESOURCES: https://mormondiscussionpodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Fanny-Alger-Episode-Sources-1.pdf

The post Joseph Smith Portrait at Morehouse College AoN 1013 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

Ready for more Dallin Oaks stuff? First we talk about a letter Joseph Smith wrote to W.W. Phelps. Then we discuss the law review article  "Ethics, Mortality, and Professional Responsibility", by Dallin Oaks published October 1975 in the BYU Law Review. For the Sword of Laman, we take a look at the first two chapters of Oaks' book Pure In Heart.  We finish it off with some happy news about a judge overturning Trump's block of an off-shore wind project that could power 600,000 homes. Enjoy!    Show Notes:  Letter to W. W. Phelps Jan 11, 1833 https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/letter-to-william-w-phelps-11-january-1833/2#historical-intro Modern D&C 52 https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/revelation-6-june-1831-dc-52/2 Ethics, Morality, and Professional Responsibility by Dallin Oaks http://digitalcommons.law.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1039&context=lawreview Wickersham Commission https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/law/wickersham-commission Criminal Justice in U.S. History https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/criminal-justice-us-history   Sword of Laman: Pure In Heart, by Dallin H. Oaks  Woes of the Pharisees: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woes_of_the_Pharisees  Cleansing the Inner Vessel by Ezra Taft Benson (April 1986 GenCon): https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1986/04/cleansing-the-inner-vessel?lang=eng  Inspiring Music, Worthy Thoughts by Boyd K Packer (GenCon 1973): https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1973/10/inspiring-music-worthy-thoughts?lang=eng  Worthy Music, Worthy Thoughts (1976 filmstrip): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ5Z6AoEKuY  Richard G Scott in April  GenCon 1992: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1992/04/healing-the-tragic-scars-of-abuse?lang=eng     Happy News: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/02/trump-halted-offshore-wind-project-to-proceed   Other appearances: Chris Shelton interviewed us in the beginning of a series on Mormonism on his Speaking of Cults series. Our most recent discussion was on The Unpaid Army of God: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=de543-d9tME  He has had MANY different fascinating people on so go take a look!  Here is the whole playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpGuS7GcsgA&list=PLGrPM1Pg2h72ADIuv8eYmzrJ-ppLOlw_g   Email: glassboxpodcast@gmail.com  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GlassBoxPod  Patreon page for documentary: https://www.patreon.com/SeerStonedProductions BlueSky: @glassboxpodcast.bsky.social  Other BlueSky: @bryceblankenagel.bsky.social and @shannongrover.bsky.social  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glassboxpodcast/  Merch store: https://www.redbubble.com/people/exmoapparel/shop Or find the merch store by clicking on "Store" here: https://glassboxpodcast.com/index.html One time Paypal donation: bryceblankenagel@gmail.com  Venmo: @Shannon-Grover-10  

This is part one of a two-part recap!Below Deck Down Under returns with a new crew and a boat full of unhinged Housewives. The glasses are flying, the tears are flowing, and the screams are screaming. Hold on to your nipple covers, it's going to be a season to remember. To watch this recap on video, listen to our bonus episodes, and get ad free listening, go to Patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens. Find bonus episodes at patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens and follow us on Instagram @watchwhatcrappens @ronniekaram @benmandelker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is part 2 of a two-part recap!Below Deck Down Under returns with a new crew and a boat full of unhinged Housewives. The glasses are flying, the tears are flowing, and the screams are screaming. Hold on to your nipple covers, it's going to be a season to remember. To watch this recap on video, listen to our bonus episodes, and get ad free listening, go to Patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens.Find bonus episodes at patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens and follow us on Instagram @watchwhatcrappens @ronniekaram @benmandelker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do some people feel their shelf of unanswered questions eventually breaks? In this Y Religion episode, Professor Jared Halverson discusses his article "Broken Shelves or Continuing Revelation? Extending the Shelf Life of Faith" and reframes the idea of a faith shelf into three shelves—revelation past, present, and future. He explains how remembering God's past mercies, engaging in current spiritual learning, and patiently awaiting future revelation can strengthen faith and prevent spiritual stagnation. Through scripture, storytelling, and years of working with students in faith crises, Dr. Halverson offers a shelf-by-shelf process for extending the shelf life of our faith. Publications: "Broken Shelves or Continuing Revelation? Extending the Shelf Life of Faith," Religious Educator, 25.3 (2024) "Just War and the Causes of Christ," in This Great and Lasting War: Studies in Alma 45–63, Religious Studies Center (2025) "'Covering the Seers': Antivisionary Skepticism in the Days of Joseph Smith," in Joseph Smith as a Visionary: Heavenly Manifestations in the Latter Days, Religious Studies Center (2025) "The Way, the Truth, and the Way to Truth: harmony in Pursuit of Orthodoxy," in I Glory in My Jesus: Understanding Christ in the Book of Mormon, Religious Studies Center (2023) Click here to learn more about Jared Halverson

Welcome back to our Joseph Smith Podcast series with historian Dr. John Turner!This is Episode 29, where we dive into Chapter 24, titled “Upper Rooms,” from John Turner's new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.In this episode, we focus on Nauvoo in 1842 –a pivotal year when Freemasonry, the Relief Society, secrecy, and the earliest forms of the Nauvoo Endowment ceremony all intersect.The central question we wrestle with is this: To what extent did Freemasonry shape Joseph Smith's use of secrecy –and was it intended to protect his authority and reputation?We explore the anti-Masonic climate of early America and the murder of William Morgan, why the Book of Mormon was once read as an “anti-Masonic Bible,” Joseph Smith's embrace of Freemasonry, the founding of the Nauvoo Masonic Lodge, Parallels between Masonic rituals and the original Nauvoo Endowment, the secret oaths, handshakes, signs, tokens, and penalties, and Joseph Smith's evolving theology around power and exaltation.This conversation is historically grounded, candid, and essential for anyone trying to understand how Mormon temple theology developed –and why it still matters today!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 PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

Professor Danny Ricks continues to examine Moses 7, showing how Enoch's sorrow turns to peace and hope through Jesus Christ and covenant faith.YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/W9iEsGXcmmwALL EPISODES/SHOW NOTESfollowHIM website: https://www.followHIM.coFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook  WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter  SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE:00:00 Part 2 - Brother Danny Ricks2:31 Youth Theme: Walk with Me5:04 Meridian of time?7:34 Losing a mother10:40 Covenantal power13:15 Veil of darkness16:01 Lame Duck President Satan17:41 What did President Oaks teach recently?19:21 Joy and sadness23:06 Like a movie24:20 Becoming like Jesus and Danny29:02 Joseph Smith preaches compassion32:35 Righteousness from heaven36:30 Best kept secret38:52 Savior's mercy42:28 Can't save them, love them45:11 Weakness vs rebellion47:21 Testimony of the power of Jesus Christ to heal52:02 End of Part 2 - Brother Danny RicksThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com

Jonathan Neville has been talking about two sets of plates being delivered to Joseph Smith for several years. Now, Don Bradley, a revered historian, published a paper on two sets of plates with BYU Studies. This is a "bombshell" theory having reached this level. It is no longer a fringe idea and may completely change the way you think about the Gold Plates and the translation process. Don Bradley BYU Studies Article - https://byustudies.byu.edu/article/we... Jonathan Neville's Book - https://amzn.to/4bpKMjk Link - https://www.mobom.org/two-sets-of-plates Blog - https://www.lettervii.com/2026/01/two... Cwic Media Website: http://www.cwicmedia.com

The Ericksons introduce a massive new scripture project for Independent Mormons and all Restorationists. We discuss the contentious issue of priesthood authority outside the LDS Church, and explain why they believe authority can exist in multiple branches of the Restoration simultaneously. https://youtu.be/aSKNhcLwtqY Don’t miss our other conversations on Mormon fundamentalism: https://gospeltangents.com/denominations/fundamentalim/ 00:00 – Independent Mormons Restored Version of Scriptures: Discussion of a new “triple combination” project spearheaded by Drew Briney. This edition includes the 1840 Book of Mormon text, formatted in paragraphs, and contains nearly 100 unpublished revelations from Joseph Smith and John Taylor. 12:00 – Details of the New Edition: The new scriptures are annotated to show every substantial change in the text over history. It excludes “press releases” like the Manifestos but includes the Lectures on Faith and the full Wentworth Letter. 20:00 – The Authority Question: Rick asks how the Ericksons claim authority without belonging to an established group like the AUB or Kingstons. Joshua argues that authority is broadly distributed, citing the Book of Mormon where Lehi and Jeremiah held authority simultaneously without coordinating. 28:00 – Priesthood vs. Church: A discussion on the fundamentalist view that the priesthood exists independently of the corporate church structure. Joshua shares his experience of being rebaptized and reordained to align with scriptural requirements for married priesthood holders. 35:00 – Rebaptism: Why independents view rebaptism as a renewable covenant and a preparation for special events (like temple dedications), rather than a one-time event3536. • 40:00 – Can Josephites and Brighamites Unite?: The group discusses the difficulty of unifying the various Restoration branches, noting that polygamy is often the “third rail” that prevents full unity

In this inaugural episode, hosts John Wilson and Camrey Fox, along with Professor Dan Peterson, visit the Carthage Jail to discuss a theory by some enemies of the Church that Brigham Young was behind the death of Joseph Smith. The post Becoming Brigham Episode 1 first appeared on The Interpreter Foundation.

James Perry is a historian and author of 'Brick by Brick: Early Latter-day Saint Meeting Places in the British Isles.' I wanted to speak to James about the lesser known stories of British 'Church-building missionaries' who built the Latter-day Saint chapels that we still worship in today.Some highlights from this episode include James's favourite journal entry from a Church-building missionary, what the safety conditions were like, and why the Church donated £6 million to this chapel-building effort.--You can find more of James's work at the following link:- https://www.deseretbook.com/product/6091205.htmlFollow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspodhttps://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Qhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via hello@forallthesaints.org or DM on InstagramConversations to Refresh Your Faith.For All The Saints podcast was established in 2023 by Ben Hancock to express his passion and desire for more dialogue around faith, religious belief, and believers' perspectives on the topics of our day. Tune into For All The Saints every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.Follow For All The Saints on social media for daily inspiration.

A funeral sermon reconstructed from four sets of notes shouldn't bear the weight of an entire theology—unless it did, over time. We dive into the King Follett Discourse with clear eyes, tracing how a two-hour address in 1844 became a flashpoint for modern conversations about the nature of God, prophetic authority, and what truly counts as doctrine in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Response to  @bayliebelieves  Two contrasting claims collide over the King Follett Discourse: a challenge that it's non-canon and unreliable versus a rebuttal that later LDS prophets taught its themes for decades. We trace what counts as doctrine, how sermons turn into beliefs, and why splinter groups say the center changed.• framing the LDS vs Christian critique over God's nature• the status of King Follett as non-canon funeral sermon• limits of note-based reconstructions and windy-day reporting• claims that Joseph Smith affirmed God's eternal divinity• the seventy-year continuity of related teachings by LDS leaders• canon versus sustained teaching as sources of doctrine• splinter groups alleging apostasy and doctrinal retreat• a plea for rigorous, charitable truth-seeking and reading full sourcesWe lay out the core tension. On one side, you'll hear the case for treating King Follett as non-canon, incomplete, and unreliable for defining belief, especially when listeners cherry-pick a sentence to score a point. On the other, we follow the historical thread: the ideas associated with the discourse were reiterated by successive LDS leaders for decades, shaping nineteenth-century Mormon thought and leaving a long tail that still touches today's debates. When doctrines appear in sermons and are echoed across presidencies, do they become functionally authoritative, even without formal canonization?Along the way, we cut through the noise: the windy-day reporting, the four accounts, the claim that Joseph Smith affirmed God's eternal divinity, and the counterclaim that he taught divine progression from manhood. We also map why splinter groups like the FLDS say mainstream LDS leadership abandoned earlier teachings, and how that accusation reframes the question of continuity versus change. If you care about LDS doctrine, Christian theology, or how living faith communities define truth, this conversation offers a thoughtful, historically grounded roadmap for better questions and better answers.If this resonated with you, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves religious history, and leave a review with your take: what should define doctrine—canon, sermons, or sustained teaching?Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!

Welcome to Episode 70 of our LDS Discussions series!In this episode, our panel takes a deep dive into one of the most debated questions surrounding the Book of Mormon: were ancient metal plates a known concept in Joseph Smith's world, and are they truly comparable to the golden plates he described?We examine historical sources from the 18th and 19th centuries that reference metal records –brass, copper, lead, and stone –and place them within Joseph Smith's cultural and intellectual milieu. From biblical scholarship and early American speculation about Native American origins to apologists' use of presentism, this episode carefully distinguishes between general awareness of metal inscriptions and the specific, unprecedented claims of a large golden codex containing extensive narrative text.Along the way, we explore major figures, books, and ideas circulating before and during Joseph Smith's lifetime, assess whether these sources were likely known to him, and ask a crucial question: at what point does probability break down –not because of a single anachronism, but because of the sheer scale and complexity of the plates described in the Book of Mormon?This conversation builds toward a detailed timeline of Joseph Smith's environment, highlighting how concepts expanded, evolved, and were ultimately synthesized into something entirely new.Leave a comment letting us know if you like this format with John Dehlin being “not home.”___________________YouTubeAt 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

Isaac found great consolation in his Mormon faith, but years of reading, talking, and studying made him have second thoughts. Ultimately, he had to ask himself: is this true, and why or why not? Isaac Hess joins the show to discuss his conversion process, growing ever-deeper into the heart of Christ.Reach out to Isaac: ldstocatholic@gmail.comFollow his new Substack: isaachess.substack.comNEW: Check out our Merch store! https://shop.lilaroseshow.com/Join our new Patreon community! https://patreon.com/lilaroseshow - We'll have BTS footage, ad-free episodes, and early access to our upcoming guests.A big thanks to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading Catholic network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/ Check out our Sponsors:-Brave+: Screen Time Made Good - Get a week free trial at https://braveplus.com/lila-EveryLife: https://www.everylife.com Buy diapers from an amazing pro-life diaper company and use code LILA to get 10% off!-Seven Weeks Coffee: https://www.sevenweekscoffee.com Buy your pro-life coffee and Save up to 25% with promo code 'LILA' & get a free gift: http://www.sevenweekscoffee.com-Hallow: https://www.hallow.com/lila Enter into prayer more deeply this season with the Hallow App, get 3 months free by using this link to sign up! 00:02:33 - Intro00:03:09 - Mormon Baptism00:06:20 - Growing up Mormon00:15:04 - His Mormon Mission00:21:08 - Where did the early church ‘go wrong'?00:24:35 - Who was Joseph Smith?00:36:07 - First Joseph Smith bio from non-LDS member00:37:09 - Was Joseph Smith a prophet?00:43:33 - Polygamy 00:56:13 - Joseph's wives01:09:34 - Spiritual Experiences as a Mormon?01:18:13 - Discovering Traditional Christianity01:23:46 - Getting challenged by his brother01:32:49 - Historical Problems in Mormonism01:36:14 - Joseph Smith vs King David01:37:03 - How to interpret prophets01:48:26 - Is Book of Mormon legit?01:58:22 - Why Catholic instead of Orthodox?02:03:55 - Early Church Disagreements02:11:24 - Was the Great Schism justified?02:15:33 - Journey into Catholicism02:18:37 - Protestant vs Catholic baptism?02:30:51 - Life as a Catholic

Welcome to Episode 70 of our LDS Discussions series!In this episode, our panel takes a deep dive into one of the most debated questions surrounding the Book of Mormon: were ancient metal plates a known concept in Joseph Smith's world, and are they truly comparable to the golden plates he described?We examine historical sources from the 18th and 19th centuries that reference metal records –brass, copper, lead, and stone –and place them within Joseph Smith's cultural and intellectual milieu. From biblical scholarship and early American speculation about Native American origins to apologists' use of presentism, this episode carefully distinguishes between general awareness of metal inscriptions and the specific, unprecedented claims of a large golden codex containing extensive narrative text.Along the way, we explore major figures, books, and ideas circulating before and during Joseph Smith's lifetime, assess whether these sources were likely known to him, and ask a crucial question: at what point does probability break down –not because of a single anachronism, but because of the sheer scale and complexity of the plates described in the Book of Mormon?This conversation builds toward a detailed timeline of Joseph Smith's environment, highlighting how concepts expanded, evolved, and were ultimately synthesized into something entirely new.Leave a comment letting us know if you like this format with John Dehlin being “not home.”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 PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

We begin this week's episode by asking if Gerrit is the reincarnated Apostle Matthias? (He's not saying he is, but he is also not not saying it.) Where did the thief on the cross go when he died? If Jesus went to “paradise,” why does Peter say He preached to “spirits in prison”? We read from theologian R.C. Sproul (because nothing says “good time” like Calvinism) and then pivot to Joseph Smith's sermon teachings that reframe paradise, prison, and the afterlife in a way that resolves contradictions without doing interpretive backflips. We would love to invite you to join us on Saturday, February 28th, at 6:30 for fun, faith, and frivolity as we make predictions for the 2026 Super Bowl that occurred three weeks earlier and likely talk about who is dead and in hell, part 73. Still not convinced? What if we told you that we combed through all of our litner data to find a venue central the the largest number of litners, but ultimately settled on a location based on how close it was to Richard's house? Click the link below for tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980902400404?aff=oddtdtcreator We have had a couple of people cancel for the upcoming 2026 Summer Standard of Truth Tour scheduled for Kirtland/Palmyra, June 14th through the 20th https://pci.jotform.com/form/260194925241153 Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

The LDS Church teaches that its top leaders are prophets, seers, and revelators; men who speak for God and whose guidance deserves trust, obedience, and moral authority. When serious problems arise in Church history, doctrine, or policy, the most common explanation offered is simple: prophets are fallible. But does that explanation actually resolve the issue? In this episode of Mormonism Live, we take a step back and examine what prophetic fallibility is being asked to accomplish, and whether it truly holds up under scrutiny. We walk through multiple categories where prophetic authority is expected to function reliably and where the Church and its apologists claim fallibility resolves the concerns, including: Foundational integrity Doctrinal and theological accuracy Moral judgment Prophetic discernment Revelation in real time Ethical leadership Institutional accountability Pastoral care and protection of the vulnerable Using clear historical examples including Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, modern prophets, and recent institutional decisions, we show how the same explanation is repeatedly used to absorb contradiction, reverse teachings, and excuse harm. Along the way, we ask the question that often goes unspoken: If prophets can confidently teach error, attribute it to God, and only later have it reclassified as opinion or mistake… how is anyone supposed to know when God is actually speaking? Fallibility may explain why mistakes happen — but it does not explain how members are meant to trust leaders in real time. Rather than attacking belief, this episode carefully examines whether the prophetic model itself functions as advertised — and what it means when authority becomes clear only in hindsight. This is not about expecting perfection. It's about whether divine authority can be trusted to guide human lives safely, honestly, and consistently.

More of Mormonism's canonized revelations originated in or near Kirtland than any other place. Yet many of the events connected with those revelations and their 1830s historical context have faded over time. Barely twenty-five years after the first of these Ohio revelations, Brigham Young lamented in 1856: “These revelations, after a lapse of years, become mystified [sic] to those who were not personally acquainted with the circumstances at the time they were given.” He gloomily predicted that eventually the revelations “may be as mysterious to our children . . . as the revelations contained in the Old and New Testaments are to this generation.” Now, more than 150 years later, the distance between what Brigham Young and his Kirtland contemporaries considered common knowledge and our understanding of the same material today has widened into a sometimes daunting gap. Mark Staker narrows the chasm in Hearken, O Ye People by reconstructing the cultural experiences by which Kirtland's Latter-day Saints made sense of the revelations Joseph Smith pronounced. This volume rebuilds that exciting decade using clues from numerous archives, privately held records, museum collections, and even the soil where early members planted corn and homes. From this vast array of sources he shapes a detailed narrative of weather, religious backgrounds, dialect differences, race relations, theological discussions, food preparation, frontier violence, astronomical phenomena, and myriad daily customs of nineteenth-century life. The result is a “from the ground up” experience that today's Latter-day Saints can all but walk into and touch. Mark Lyman Staker was a senior researcher in the Church History Department of the LDS Church when this was written. He received his PhD in cultural anthropology from University of Florida. For more than fifteen years, Mark has been involved in historic sites restoration and nineteenth-century expressions of the Latter-day Saint experience. He received the J. Talmage Jones Award of Excellence for an Outstanding Article on Mormon History from the Mormon History Association, and he has been involved in numerous museum exhibits. He and his wife, Kimberly, are the parents of seven children and live in West Bountiful, Utah. The post Hearken, O Ye People: The Historical Setting of Joseph Smith's Ohio Revelations – Mark Staker – appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

This is a rebroadcast of a podcast episode from Teaching Restored, a podcast exploring the how of teaching the restored gospel of Jesus Christ to bring others unto Him, helping gospel teachers become more confident, converted, and consecrated. Hosts Kevin Jones and Julie Hillyard are both former guests on the Leading Saints Podcast and you can join Kevin for further teaching-related discussion in Zion Lab. Links Teaching Restored Teaching Restored on YouTube @teachingrestored Teaching Sunday School with Questions | An Interview with Kevin Jones Stimulating Sunday School Discussion… But Not Too Much | An Interview with Julie Hillyard Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Kevin and Julie explore the concept of “flipped” learning as a model for “home-centered, church-supported” gospel study. They discuss transitioning from a lecture-based church experience to a “laboratory” environment where members act as a council to solve problems and apply doctrines learned at home. Key Insights The Flipped Classroom Model: In a traditional setting, teachers lecture and students do “homework” alone; in a flipped model, students learn the material at home and use class time to work through practical applications with the teacher's help. Defining Scriptural Understanding: Citing Elder Bednar, Kevin notes that scriptural “understanding” is not merely mental comprehension, but occurs when the heart confirms what the mind has learned. The “Preparer” as the Primary Learner: The person who prepares a talk or lesson historically learns the most. The goal of a flipped church is to elevate every member to the status of a “preparer” before they arrive at Sunday meetings. Accountability Through System Changes: To motivate home study, Kevin suggests “blowing up” the traditional lecture system. If members know they will be required to participate in a solution-based council rather than listen to a lecture, they are more likely to engage with the materials at home. Utilizing Existing Tools: Julie highlights that the Come, Follow Me manuals and Gospel Library app already provide the necessary “lab” prompts—such as writing a eulogy for Joseph Smith—but these are often ignored in favor of passive reading. Leadership Applications Transitioning from Teacher to Moderator: Leaders can “release” traditional teachers and instead call “discussion heads” or moderators. This shifts the burden of learning onto the quorum or class members and prevents “spiritual engines” from turning off during a lecture. Implementing Solution-Based Councils: Instead of sharing “happy thoughts,” leaders should present specific ward or family conundrums—such as helping elderly members attend the temple—and ask the council to generate actionable solutions. Closing the Feedback Loop: When a council generates a solution, leaders must take those ideas to the Ward Council or Bishopric and report back to the members. This demonstrates that their participation has a direct impact on the ward’s operation. 00:04:22 – Introduction to Flipped School Concept 00:06:25 – New Year’s Resolutions and Teaching Goals 00:07:07 – Understanding Flipped School Model 00:09:05 – Home-Centered, Church-Supported Learning 00:10:24 – The Role of Preparation in Learning 00:12:01 – The Importance of Family Engagement 00:13:05 – Elder Oaks on Family Togetherness 00:17:02 – The Challenge of Utilizing Extra Time 00:19:04 – Elder Bednar on Understanding and Revelation 00:21:44 – The Need for Personal Preparation 00:24:51 – Tools for Effective Gospel Study 00:28:32 – Practical Application of Come Follow Me 00:30:32 – The Role of Motivation in Learning 00:32:08 – Innovative Elders Quorum Model 00:36:05 – Benefits of Council-Based Learning 00:40:34 – Youth Engagement in Problem Solving 00:43:00 – The Importance of Practice in Councils 00:46:34 – Reframing Youth Teaching Opportunities The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

Rick Bennett and Kurt Francom announce the launch of the Gospel Tangents Network and its new community forum, LDS Faith Journeys.org, designed to support members looking for support with history, doctrine, social issues, etc. The hosts discuss reframing the concept of a “faith crisis” into a “faith journey” to remove shame, with Kurt offering his “scuba gear on a bicycle” analogy to explain how personal trauma or baggage can hinder religious practice. The conversation covers Kurt's experience as a bishop with a counselor who left the Church, his involvement in Warrior Heart boot camps, and the dangers of publicizing polygamy denial or the book Visions of Glory. Finally, Rick pays tribute to the late podcaster Troy Ables and previews upcoming guests for the network, hopefully including Janice Allred. https://youtu.be/5PayNjM0y1s 00:00 — Introduction and Launch Rick Bennett welcomes Kurt Francom, host of the Leading Saints podcast, to announce the launch of the Gospel Tangents Network. Rick introduces the network’s 2nd website, LDSFaithJourneys.org, a forum designed for members to discuss history, doctrine, social issues and other issues where members needs support. 05:00 — “Faith Crisis” vs. “Faith Journeys” Rick and Kurt discuss the terminology used for those struggling with the Church. Kurt argues that the term “Faith Crisis” carries a heavy, negative connotation of brokenness, whereas “Faith Journey” suggests a natural evolution of faith. Kurt emphasizes that avoiding the “crisis” label helps remove shame, which is often a tool of the adversary. Rick hopes people don't stay in crisis very long and move onto more productive faith journeys. 15:00 — The Scuba Gear Analogy Kurt introduces a metaphor for religious struggle: imagining the Gospel as a functional bicycle that some members try to ride while wearing heavy “scuba gear” (trauma, baggage, or specific upbringing.) He suggests that for some, stepping away or “hitting the reset button” is necessary to remove the gear before they can successfully ride the bike again. 25:00 — A Bishop's Heartbreak Kurt shares a personal story from his time as a bishop regarding his second counselor, an attorney and capable leader. After reading Richard Bushman's Rough Stone Rolling in a BYU religion class, the counselor struggled with the “raw and real history” of Joseph Smith and eventually removed his name from Church records. This experience taught Kurt that just because the “standard formula” works for him, it does not mean it works for everyone. 35:00 — Warrior Heart Boot Camps Responding to a listener question, Kurt discusses his involvement with Warrior Heart, a non-denominational Christian men's retreat. He describes it as a place to “strip away all of the baggage” of faith tradition and allow men to focus solely on their relationship with God. 45:00 — Polygamy Revisionists & Excommunication Rick asks Kurt about the trend of members being excommunicated for claiming Joseph Smith did not practice polygamy. Kurt argues that while people are free to believe what they want, using a public platform to claim Brigham Young was a liar while Joseph was innocent creates a movement the Church must address. Rick adds that D&C 132 and the sealing power are so intertwined that rejecting Joseph's polygamy creates a massive theological problem. Rick doesn’t agree with polygamy revisionists and encourages leaders to avoid taking away membership. He shares a conversation with a Jewish friend who said it is impossible to be excommunicated from the Jewish religion, even for murder. “Let God be the judge.” Rick wishes the LDS Church moved closer to that admonition. 55:00 — Visions of Glory A listener asks about the book Visions of Glory. Is it helpful or harmful? Kurt describes it as harmful because it creates unhealthy narratives about the “mechanics of heaven” and end-times obsession. He notes that it consistently sells well, alongside Under the Banner of Heaven, which shows a cultural fascination with these topics. 58:00 — Future Content and Wrap Up Rick hopes to have a future episode involving the Succession Crisis, featuring figures like James Strang and William Bickerton. They conclude by encouraging listeners to register at the new website https://ldsfaithjourneys.org to ask questions and find support.

Brandt Peacock is a chaplain in the US military. I wanted to speak to Brandt to understand how someone qualifies for that role and what it entails, especially the specifics about being a military chaplain when his faith is as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Some highlights from this episode include Brandt's journey to becoming a military chaplain, his most touching experience in his ministry, and what a standard day is like.Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspodhttps://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Qhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via hello@forallthesaints.org or DM on InstagramConversations to Refresh Your Faith.For All The Saints podcast was established in 2023 by Ben Hancock to express his passion and desire for more dialogue around faith, religious belief, and believers' perspectives on the topics of our day. Tune into For All The Saints every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.Follow For All The Saints on social media for daily inspiration.

LDS scripture only contains a portion of Joseph Smith's alterations to the King James Version of the Bible. What about the rest?

Brigham didnt dissolver Relief Society! That’s what Katie Rich’s recent article on Brigham Young & the Relief Society claimed. It goes against the historical consensus and won an award at the Mormon History Association. She will explain her reasons here. We’ll also discuss how Exponent II accepts multiple positions on controversial issues. Is it hard to keep disparate opinions together? It’s only available to newsletter subscribers so sign up to gospeltangents.com/newsletter and I’ll send you the secret link to the final part of our conversation! https://youtu.be/dceZ4SYPG4Y Check out this playlist for more info on this topic! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGUWDGlv87I&list=PLLhI8GMw9sJ4VKeJi6eTv4OMaRZiZnA0h In this concluding episode, we discuss the personal impact of Exponent II and a groundbreaking re-examination of 19th-century history with authors Katie Rich and Heather Sundal. Katie shares her personal journey from being “terrified” to publish her first blog post in 2020 to becoming an award-winning historian. She describes Exponent II as an “incubator of voices,” providing a supportive community for women to move past the fear of being perceived as critical of the Church while exploring cognitive dissonance and authenticity. The authors also address the “big tent” philosophy of their organization. Both emphasize that Exponent II allows them to remain in a community that “speaks their language” without needing to explain their complex identities. Brigham didnt dissolver Relief Society The highlight of the episode is a deep dive into Katie's award-winning research regarding Brigham Young and the Relief Society. Contrary to the widely accepted historical narrative that Brigham Young “shut down” or “disbanded” the Relief Society in 1845 due to his frustrations with Emma Smith, Katie argues that the organization actually fell apart in March 1844 due to internal conflicts over polygamy. Key insights include: Shadow Succession Crisis: While men were publicly debating who should succeed Joseph Smith, women were influencing the trajectory of the Church through their work in the Anointed Quorum and the Nauvoo Temple. Polygamy Tension: The organization fractured a full year before Brigham Young’s infamous “incendiary comments” because Emma Smith was using the Relief Society to police morality and oppose secret plural marriages that her own counselors and secretaries were already participating in. The “Great Gap”: While there was a nearly 20-year gap before the Relief Society was formally reorganized as an ecclesiastical body in 1867, women continued to lead through informal spiritual meetings, blessing one another and performing temple ordinances. Don't miss our other conversations about Mormon feminism: https://gospeltangents.com/lds_theology/feminism/ Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved

I was surprised to learn that Troy Ables passed away on Thursday, Jan 15, 2026. In this special episode I'm sharing a previously unpublished interview from October 2020 to honor the memory of Troy Ables, a YouTuber and podcaster known for “The Last Dispensation,” who passed away suddenly around the age of 54. In a reversal of roles, Troy interviews Rick, delving into Rick's personal history, his views on controversial church topics, and the evolution of Mormon historical transparency. https://youtu.be/l8GdztsUrZU 0:00 Generational Shifts and Literature The conversation highlights the generational differences in how Latter-day Saints engage with church literature. Troy recounts devouring Bruce R. McConkie's “Mormon Doctrine” and “The Miracle of Forgiveness” as a youth, while I admitted to avoiding them, viewing them as sources of unnecessary guilt or false doctrine. We discuss how the Church has shifted from the politically conservative era of the 1980s to a modern era characterized by greater openness, exemplified by the release of the Gospel Topics Essays. 8:59 Polygamy vs. Sealing A significant portion of the interview focuses on plural marriage. I tried to articulate a clear distinction between the sealing power, which I support and finds beautiful, and the practice of polygamy, which I'm not a fan of. Specific issues such as Joseph Smith's marriage to Fanny Alger and the secrecy kept from Emma Smith as reasons for discomfort. I don't agree with the apologetic defense that Joseph was merely sealing families together, noting the sexual component and the sneakiness involved. 11:57 Nuance, History, and “The Middle Way” I maintain my testimony while acknowledging historical difficulties. I have a problem with the “we don’t know” defense used by some apologists, arguing that we do know certain uncomfortable facts—such as Joseph Smith being a “terrible money manager” regarding the Kirtland Safety Society. Instead, it seems better to accept Joseph Smith as an inspired but imperfect human being. 16:31 Church Discipline The discussion also touches on the treatment of intellectuals and dissidents, such as the “September Six.” The Church has been inconsistent approach to discipline and reinstatement, contrasting the rebaptism of Maxine Hanks with the denial of Lavina Fielding Anderson. I hope that the Church is becoming more tolerant of diverse voices than it has in the past. The contributions of scholars like Matt Harris and Margaret Toscano deserve great praise. 19:38 Gospel Topics Essays Origin and Purpose The essays were initiated under Church Historian Elder Marlin Jensen and continued by his successor, Elder Steven E. Snow. They were created as a direct response to the explosion of the internet, where members were encountering disturbing information about Church history that was causing them to lose their testimonies. The goal was to provide fficial good information” on difficult subjects such as the translation of the Book of Mormon, race and the priesthood, and the Mountain Meadows Massacre. The “Quiet” Launch Rick explains that the Church purposely did not advertise the essays when they were first published (roughly between 2012 and 2015). According to Elder Snow, leadership wanted the answers to be available for those who were struggling, but they feared that broadcasting the essays might cause testimony loss among members who were not previously aware of the controversies. Handling Polygamy A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the three essays regarding polygamy. Rick gives the Church credit for admitting to difficult facts, such as Joseph Smith's practice of polyandry (marrying women who were already married) and his marriage to teenage brides. However, Rick notes that some language appeared “softened” by leadership; for example, the essays described a 14-year-old bride as being “in her 15th year” to make it sound less jarring. Overall Assessment Despite some critiques, Rick views the essays as “leaps and bounds better” than what was available in previous decades. He mentions that historian Matt Harris (along with Margaret Toscano) has written a book critiquing the essays, highlighting that while they are a vast improvement, there are still areas where the essays are weak or where the Church is hesitant to fully engage.

Welcome to Part 28 of our John G. Turner series of the Joseph Smith Podcast! Today we continue our deep dive into the Egyptian Materials, the Book of Abraham, and how its theology shaped Mormonism's most distinctive doctrines –including premortal existence, exaltation, intelligences, and the idea of God becoming God.This episode explores how Joseph Smith resumed work on the papyri in Nauvoo, publicly introduced the Book of Abraham, and used it as a vehicle for unfolding expansive cosmology and theology. We examine the papyri themselves, the facsimiles, translation claims, the catalyst theory, and why there is little evidence that key scrolls are missing.More importantly, we trace how the Book of Abraham becomes the theological backbone for ideas that later crystalize in the King Follett Discourse, the Plan of Salvation, the War in Heaven, and the belief that humans can become Gods.This is Part 2 of our discussion on the Egyptian Materials and their lasting influence on Mormon doctrine.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeShow NotesAt 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

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

Isaac Hale, Emma Smith's father, was one of the very first people to observe Joseph Smith during the early Book of Mormon translation period. While Joseph and Emma lived in Hale's home in Harmony, Pennsylvania, Hale saw Joseph working long before any official witnesses were called. This gave him a rare inside view of the process while it was still private and unconfirmed. Hale later said Joseph was not reading from plates in a normal way but dictating with a stone placed in a hat, often without the plates present. To Hale, this looked suspicious, and he concluded Joseph was using folk-magic practices rather than translating ancient records. Because Hale saw this before the Three and Eight Witnesses gave their formal testimonies, he believed he had already seen the truth of what Joseph was doing. His account has remained important because it comes from someone who was there at the very beginning, watching the story unfold before it became public. So why doesn't it get more attention? Ganesh Cherian joins Mormonish to dive into the important and controversial witness account of Isaac Hale.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

In this author-read episode, Steven C. Harper explores the creation accounts found in Genesis, the Book of Moses, and the Book of Abraham, using the idea of “noise” in communication to explain why scripture can be difficult to interpret. He introduces a Restoration-based hermeneutic—the tools and practices Joseph Smith used to read the Bible with reverence, honesty about its limits, and openness to revelation. Listeners will be guided through: How language and culture affect our reading of Genesis Why Genesis includes more than one creation account What the Books of Moses and Abraham add to our understanding of creation How restored scripture clarifies God's purposes without claiming to explain every detail of how creation occurred Rather than resolving every question, this episode offers perspective, context, and hope. It invites listeners to approach the Old Testament thoughtfully, combining careful study with spiritual inquiry, and to trust that God revealed enough about creation to help us understan

Creation: What I Learned Watching My Husband Build a House by Autumn Dickson This week, we read about the Creation story. I don't have a specific verse to share, but I have an overarching idea that I want you to contemplate while reading the Creation story. There are many principles that we can talk about; we could talk about the power of God or His creative abilities. However, there is one principle I want to focus on because I feel like I'm watching a mini-version of it right before my eyes. These scriptures are rather poignant for me right now. My husband, Conner, is currently working alongside others to build a house for our family. He has worked so hard on it; he has been actively involved in every step of the process including the construction itself, and he has the chemical burns from the wet concrete to prove it. It has been an exhausting process for him; there have been extra challenges to face that I won't go into detail over, but I wish I could describe the depth for which he fought for us to have this. There have been many times that I have watched his tenacity with fascination and curiosity because it's so different from my eager willingness to walk away and give up. I legitimately don't understand how he can be so obstinate and relentless to have made this come together for our family. There have been endless nights of research, gray hairs, even legitimate nightmares over the challenges that we (but mostly, he) faced in trying to make it all come together. There were a lot of times when I felt like, “Enough is enough. Let's cut our losses. We're happy enough where we are.” But not Conner. He wouldn't let it go. Conner had more than one motivating factor that kept him going when I'm convinced that 99% of people would have given up. When he was a young boy, his family moved to Sharon, Vermont. It's a tiny town where Joseph Smith Sr. met Lucy Mack. We went back to visit this town a couple of years ago, and they were still using the same General Store that had been used in Joseph Smith's time. You could see through the floorboards. Conner's family lived on an obscure piece of land, and it was heaven for Conner. He spent all day every day outside, playing in the stream and running through the woods even when the snow was as tall as him. He loved it. He was so proud to take me back and show me. Conner is building us a house on a bit of land where our kids can experience the happiness that he experienced. I'm convinced that's his motivating factor. That was what caused him to continue on despite obstacles that would have chased away anyone else. I have watched my husband labor (and honest, labor seems like a euphemism for what he's done) on behalf of my family. I have watched him go through the wringer because he wants his kids to have what he had. And yes, one of the parallels of THE Creation story and our mini-creation story is the fact that there was sacrifice involved. However, I want to draw your attention to another detail. You are so loved. Christ worked so hard to make this come together for us, and He gave an unfathomable sacrifice all because He. Loved. You. I look forward to the day that my kids can walk into what my husband built. I look forward to sitting on our porch and watching them play, get dirty, wash off, and do chores alongside us in order to grow. I hope that one day, I can convey the price their father paid for them to have what they have. I don't want them to become depressed over the price or feel like they can't go out and learn for fear of ruining everything. I don't want them to sit and mope and lament that they didn't deserve all the work their father put into it. Of course they don't deserve it! Of course they didn't earn it! It wasn't meant to be earned. It was a gift. I hope they are filled with tremendous gratitude that only sweetens the gift that we want them to enjoy. I hope they take advantage of the gift. I hope they run their little hearts out, following our rules for safety. I hope the gift helps them grow so that they can be as good as their father. I currently try to teach my children about the gifts that their Savior gave them. I don't want them to become depressed over the price that He willingly paid. I don't want them to be terrified of going out to learn for fear of making mistakes. I don't want them to sit and mope and lament that they didn't deserve it. Of course we don't deserve it. Of course we didn't earn it. It wasn't meant to be earned. It was a gift. I hope we are filled with tremendous gratitude that sweetens the gift that our Savior wants us to enjoy. I hope we take advantage of the gift. I hope we wear ourselves out utilizing His gift, following His rules for safety and also trying to grow to become as good as Him. I hope my kids look at their father one day and realize what it cost him to build this. I KNOW that my husband will look back at them and feel like he got a gift back just because he had the pleasure of watching them grow and receiving their love in return. I hope that we look at Christ and realize what it cost Him to build this. I KNOW that Christ will look back at us and feel like He got a gift back just because He had the pleasure of watching us grow and receiving our love in return. I testify that our Savior gave us many gifts. I testify that He sacrificed and built us a home. I testify that it cost Him more than we can understand. I also testify that He did it because He wanted to. He really just wanted the pleasure of watching us find what He has. He wanted the pleasure of us loving Him for it. He just wants us all to be happy together. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5 – Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

Welcome to episode 27 of the Joseph Smith Podcast with Dr. John G. Turner! In this episode, we take a deep dive into Joseph Smith's early practice of polygamy in Nauvoo, tracing how it began, how it expanded so rapidly, and what it reveals about power, belief, and risk.We examine the first plural marriages, the people Joseph trusted to introduce the practice, and the recurring patterns that emerge as polygamy spreads among church leadership. Along the way, we ask difficult questions about revelation, consent, secrecy, scripture, and whether Joseph believed his actions were divinely required –or something else entirely.This discussion also situates polygamy within the broader political and social pressures Joseph faced in the early 1840s, including legal threats, growing opposition, and his increasing confidence and recklessness as Nauvoo flourished. Ultimately, we explore whether Joseph's polygamy can be understood as sincere belief, institutional experimentation, abuse of authority, or some combination of all three.If you find this series valuable, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. More episodes in this series are coming next!Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt 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

We dig into one of the lesser-known but deeply revealing historical sources from early Mormonism: the Fayette Lapham interview with Joseph Smith Sr. Lapham's account places Joseph Smith's father in conversation about the earliest days of the movement — before the Church had polished narratives, before later offices were cleanly defined, and before memory had… Read More »Interview with Joseph Smiths Father

We begin the episode with a loving tribute to President Holland and move on to a discussion of a fraudulent email that was sent out to many members of the Church representing itself as an email coming from the Church while making a series of false claims. We also discuss a litner's email about Joseph Smith's successor and a tremendous scientific experiment on YooHoo performed by a litter in Fairbanks, Alaska.   Link to the YooHoo Scientific Experiment: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-Tg5QE6bRRpsRC_yg7rG82uXzC__dk2m?usp=sharing   Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

We dig into one of the lesser-known but deeply revealing historical sources from early Mormonism: the Fayette Lapham interview with Joseph Smith Sr. Lapham's account places Joseph Smith's father in conversation about the earliest days of the movement — before the Church had polished narratives, before later offices were cleanly defined, and before memory had… Read More »Interview with Joseph Smiths Father The post Interview with Joseph Smiths Father appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

We dig into one of the lesser-known but deeply revealing historical sources from early Mormonism: the Fayette Lapham interview with Joseph Smith Sr. Lapham's account places Joseph Smith's father in conversation about the earliest days of the movement — before the Church had polished narratives, before later offices were cleanly defined, and before memory had decades to smooth out the rough edges. What emerges is a version of early Mormon leadership that feels far less settled and far more experimental than most members were ever taught. One claim in particular raises eyebrows: the suggestion that Joseph Smith may have identified or spoken of twelve apostles years before the traditionally accepted 1835 calling. Was this an early attempt at organization? A loose use of terminology? Or a later memory shaped by what the Church eventually became? We walk carefully through the evidence, the problems, and the implications — without overstating the case and without pretending the question isn't uncomfortable. As always, we separate what the sources actually say from what later narratives need them to say. We look at how early language was used, how memory works, and why moments like this matter when trying to understand how Mormonism developed in real time rather than in hindsight. If you care about early Mormon history, shifting priesthood structures, and how institutional stories get built — sometimes retroactively — this is an episode you won't want to miss. RESOURCES:https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/license-for-john-whitmer-9-june-1830/1https://archive.org/details/volume-1_202010/page/456/mode/2uphttps://books.google.com/books/download/The_Historical_Magazine_and_Notes_and_Qu.pdf?id=x7MTAAAAYAAJ&output=pdf Support Mormonism Live: https://mormonismlive.org/Donate-To-Mormonism-Live/ Time to Vote for X-MoOTY and the Brodie Awards 2025!! https://mainstreetplaza.com/2026/01/01/time-to-vote-for-x-mooty-and-the-brodie-awards-2025/

David Whitmer is one of the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon, but his life after Mormonism raises some of the most challenging questions anyone serious about truth claims has to wrestle with. He broke with Joseph Smith. He rejected Brigham Young. He condemned polygamy, secret combinations, and priesthood hierarchy. And yet, for nearly… Read More »David Whitmer: Book of Mormon Witness Examined!

In this episode of Pretty Lies & Alibis, we break down the disturbing backstory behind the upcoming trial of Brendan Banfield, a former federal investigator accused of orchestrating the murders of his wife, Christine Banfield, and a man named Joseph Ryan inside their Fairfax County, Virginia home.Prosecutors allege Banfield carried out the killings with the help of the family's live-in au pair, Juliana Peres Magalhães, with whom he was having an affair. According to the state, the pair used an online fetish website and encrypted messaging to lure Ryan to the home under the guise of a consensual encounter — a plan that allegedly ended in murder and a staged crime scene.This episode covers:The alleged affair and digital trailClaims of long-term planningWhat happened the morning of the murdersConflicting detective theoriesJuliana's plea deal and cooperationInternal police disputes and prosecutorial issuesWhat to watch for as the trial beginsBrendan Banfield has pleaded not guilty and faces life in prison without parole if convicted. Jury selection is expected to begin January 12, and this case is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched trials of the year.