Podcasts about LDS

Please join us as we interview Chase McWhorter from Secret Lives of Mormon Wives about his Mormon Story.___________________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

Join Michelle Stone and Cheryl Bruno as they discuss the history of the Mormon polygamy wars that erupted in the U.S. AFTER the death of Joseph Smith.___________________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

Send us a Positive Review!Series Title: Straight Talk on Patriarchy and Harm [Part I of II] In this episode I read to you a shocking and brilliant article that I wish every Latter-day Saint can hear. This is a tough topic but one where reform will not touch until we start looking it in the eye. Please listen and share this article. Thank you to the Dialogue Foundation and to the author Suzanne E. Greco, whose trailblazing work may eventually be instrumental in preventing countless LDS women and girls from future harm. She wrote the article. I read the article. Please do your part and share the article (via the podcast or linked HERE!)Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Context00:26 Upcoming Episode Preview 03:31 Reading the Article: Confronting Men's Violence 05:26 Author's Background and Article Introduction 06:26 Article Reading: Violence Against Women in LDS Church 11:11 Personal Story of Abuse 14:56 Credibility Issues and External Validation 19:59 Global Perspective on Violence Against Women 25:38 Utah Statistics and Under-Reporting 28:38 Male Ecclesiastical Leaders as First Responders 32:38 Challenges and Solutions 33:18 Solution One: Legal Changes and Clergy-Penitent Laws 38:31 High-Profile Cases and Institutional Betrayal 42:58 Solution Two: Women's Ministry and Male Protection Racket 46:23 Solution Three: Training and Education 48:23 DARVO Tactics and Victim-Perpetrator Dynamics 52:52 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupport the showSupport the show Listen, Share, Rate & Review EPISODES Friday Episodes Annual Access $89 Friday Episodes Monthly Access $10 Valerie's Support & Processing Groups Gift a Scholarship Download Free Resources Visit our Website

In a repeat broadcast, MRM's Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson interview Dr. Rob Bowman, who leads a ministry called IRR.org. The topic this week is about the Trinity.

Week 12 - Genesis 42-50:  "Therefore let your light so shine, that you may glorify your Father in Heaven."

Send a textJoin Dustin and René as they discuss Genesis 18-23 through the Queer Perspective of PROVING!Study along in the "Come, Follow Me" Manual (February 23-March 1).SHOW NOTES:Guide to the Scriptures: SarahWomen in Scripture: SarahGuide to the Scriptures: HagarWomen in Scripture: HagarGuide to the Scriptures: Lot/Lot's WifeLot's WifeScripture Help: Genesis 18-23Unshaken Youtube ChannelJoin the conversation by sending your own Queer Perspective on Gospel Topics (or Haikulelujah) to: lovespokenqueer@gmail.comor DM us on Social:Instagram: @lovespokenqueerFacebook: Love Is Spoken Queer

Prior to the Men's Big 12 Tournament, Commissioner Brett Yormark addressed the anti-LDS chants that have been occuring more and more often.

Join us as we conclude Carol Lynn Pearson week on Mormon Stories Podcast!Today we have planned a celebration & Q&A with beloved author, poet, feminist, and activist Carol Lynn Pearson. We will have several guests on to share their dedications to Carol Lynn. And Barbara Brown from Signature Books will join us as we also discuss the new release of: The Diaries of Carol Lynn Pearson--Mormon Author, Feminist, and Activist: Volume 1 (1956-1990).Please help us support Carol Lynn Pearson and purchase her new memoir, here.___________________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

Patrick gives practical guidance for Catholics facing challenging conversations with Mormon missionaries, unpacking the "Great Apostasy" claim and recommending specific resources for those discussions. He welcomes Tim Glemkowski, who shares candid thoughts about his new show, family life, and staying faithful amid modern pressures. Throughout, Patrick fields calls on being denied Communion on the tongue, whether moderate drinking or marijuana use is sinful, and what type of baptism gift to give a Protestant teen. Todd (email) – I feel the entire Legislative Branch has failed in their mission (01:51) Email from Texas – LDS and the great apostasy (04:17) Article by Patrick Madrid: Why Catholics Reject the Mormon “Great Apostasy” Theory - https://patrickmadrid.substack.com/p/why-catholics-reject-the-mormon-great There’s a new show coming to Relevant Radio: The Tim Glemkowski Show. Tim stops by to talk to Patrick about what his new show is all about. Premieres on Monday at 12:30pm Central! (12:45) Maria - I was denied Holy Communion on the tongue. What should I say in response to this? (20:10) Jessica - Why is drinking, smoking marijuana, or cigarettes not a sin? Isn't self-harm a sin? (27:38) Is Drinking Alcohol a Sin? What the Bible Actually Says About Wine, Strong Drink, and Drunkenness – by Patrick Madrid - https://patrickmadrid.substack.com/p/is-drinking-alcohol-a-sin Joshua - What is the focal point in a Catholic Church supposed to be? (38:01) Meredith - What gift should I give to a non-Catholic for a Protestant Baptism? (44:22)

Here on The LDS Mission Podcast, Episode 247 – Stop Fighting Yourself, I'm sharing a powerful mindset shift for missionaries, returned missionaries, and missionary moms who feel like they're constantly battling their own thoughts, emotions, or motivation. So many of us have been taught that growth requires fighting ourselves—battling the natural man, conquering weakness, or pushing through fear with sheer force. But in this episode, I challenge that idea and explain why internal war with yourself actually slows growth instead of creating it. When missionaries shame themselves for normal human emotions like anxiety, sadness, fear, or exhaustion, they often end up feeling divided, discouraged, and exhausted instead of empowered. I talk about how our lower brain is wired for survival—seeking pleasure, avoiding pain, and conserving energy—and why compassion toward that part of ourselves is actually the key to emotional resilience and personal growth. In this episode we explore the difference between intentional growth and internal aggression, and why beating yourself up isn't the same thing as discipline. I explain how fighting your thoughts and emotions often makes them louder, drains your energy, and splits you into "good" and "bad" versions of yourself. Instead of living in a constant tug-of-war with your lower brain, I teach how to drop the rope and bring your higher brain and lower brain into harmony. Through self-compassion, awareness, and intentional self-leadership, missionaries can move out of the boxing ring with themselves and begin creating peace, confidence, and emotional strength. When you stop shaming yourself for normal human experiences and instead lead yourself with kindness, you actually accelerate growth and create the mission experience—and life—you truly want. You are not meant to live at war with yourself. You are meant to become whole. By learning to approach your thoughts, fears, anxiety, and emotions with compassion instead of hostility, you create the internal peace that allows real progress to happen. If you've ever felt frustrated with yourself, overwhelmed by your thoughts, or stuck in a cycle of self-criticism, this episode will help you step out of the tug-of-war and move forward with clarity and self-trust. Episode 247 – Stop Fighting Yourself reminds us that growth doesn't come from conquering ourselves, but from learning to lead ourselves with compassion and harmony. As always, if you found this episode helpful, I want to invite you to subscribe if you aren't already, share this episode with your friends and missionaries you know, and write a review. I know this work will help LDS missionaries around the world and it would mean so much to me if you did. Until next week my friends. Underneath Summary on Libsyn and Website -    Website | Instagram | Facebook   5 Ways to Process Any Less-Than Happy Mission Memories Article: HERE   Get the Full Show Notes and Text/PDF Transcripts: HERE   Free PDF Download:  Podcast Roadmap   Free PDF Download:  Preparing Missionary Cheat Sheet   Free Training for Preparing Missionaries:  Change Your Mission with this One Tool   RM Transition Free Video Series:  3 Tools to Help RMs in Their Transition Home   Free Guide:  5 Tips to Help Any Returning Missionary   Schedule a Free Strategy Call:   Click Here

Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson use quotes from Martin Luther and Charles Spurgeon to address the faith-versus-works debate, pushing back against LDS leaders like Joseph Fielding Smith who called justification by faith alone "pernicious." The key takeaway: evangelicals aren't against good works — they just insist works are the result of saving faith, not the means of earning justification.

Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson analyze an article by LDS General Authority Randy D. Funk, who uses the legal concept of "unilateral acceptance" to frame covenant-keeping and temple ordinances as the means by which Latter-day Saints receive God's blessings. The hosts contrast this works-based approach with the evangelical view that good works are the result of justification, not the basis for it.

In episode 400! of the Words of the Prophets podcast Todd, Burke and Rivka discuss the talk “Forsake Not Your Own Mercy” by Elder Holland from the October 2025 general conference.#wordsoftheprophets #generalconference #conference #ldsconference #LDS #ldspodcast #podcast #sharegoodnesshttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/words-of-the-prophetsFind us on instagram or email us at wordsoftheprophetspodcast@gmail.comFind us at youtube.com/wordsoftheprophetspodcast

In this episode, Jack sits down with Pastor Braden Patterson to hear his powerful testimony of growing up in Mormonism, coming to faith in Jesus Christ, and now serving as a pastor in biblical Christianity. Braden shares what life was like in a deeply committed LDS home, how he viewed Christians while growing up, and how Mormon theology shaped his understanding of God, salvation, and purpose. He also explains the crushing burden of works-based religion and the peace he found in the finished work of Christ. The conversation walks through the turning point that began his departure from Mormonism, the role Scripture played in exposing error, and the dramatic moment when he could no longer deny that Jesus is Lord and God. Braden also gives thoughtful, practical advice for Christians who want to engage Mormons faithfully, biblically, and lovingly. Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: chorusinthechaos@email.com Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They've built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order. This is a helpful and sobering conversation about false religion, true conversion, the necessity of sound doctrine, and the beauty of the gospel of grace.  

Welcome back to Carol Lynn Pearson week on Mormon Stories podcast, as we re-visit two very important interviews with a one-of-a-kind Mormon woman.Today's episode was originally recorded in 2018, when we teamed up with Sunstone to do a live recording where we discussed Pearson's book, The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy. Special thanks to the Salt Lake City Community of Christ for hosting such a wonderful evening and for the many listeners who came to enjoy the experience.In our next episode, we will close out the week by welcoming Carol Lynn Pearson back on the podcast to celebrate the release of her new book, The Diaries of Carol Lynn Pearson. We will also be joined on that interview by the director of Signature Books, Barbara Jones Brown.___________________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

Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark addressed the anti-LDS chants directed at BYU during the Big 12 Tournament, but the conference also faced other issues this week. Heartland College Sports' Pete Mundo explains how the commissioner handled the big issue this week.Also, from the much-hyped Big 12 glass court that turned into a major bust, to Kansas State's interim coach delivering a bizarre postgame press conference, there has been no shortage of drama.Mundo also explains why the Big 12 still has work to do when it comes to building true conference rivalries in the new 16-team league.Subscribe to Heartland College Sports for independent Big 12 coverage every week.

Mykelti visits the "world famous" fashion designer David Tupaz, Robyn makes Dayton's surgery all about herself and then gets hit on by a lesbian polygamist, Maddie moves away from home and Kody pretends to care. Love the girls? Get more of their cringey, awesome content at Patreon.com/realitytvcringe!Follow us on IG https://instagram.com/realitytvcringeSubscribe to see our raccoon faces on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_2CgqXLWjIEKV9PCtH3Kjw?sub_confirmation=1Leave a message for us on SpeakPipe: https://speakpipe.com/realitytvcringeSupport the pod by leaving a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform! Thank you so much.

Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson analyze an article by LDS General Authority Randy D. Funk, who uses the legal concept of "unilateral acceptance" to frame covenant-keeping and temple ordinances as the means by which Latter-day Saints receive God's blessings. The hosts contrast this works-based approach with the evangelical view that good works are the result of justification, not the basis for it.

Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson analyze an article by LDS General Authority Randy D. Funk, who uses the legal concept of "unilateral acceptance" to frame covenant-keeping and temple ordinances as the means by which Latter-day Saints receive God's blessings. The hosts contrast this works-based approach with the evangelical view that good works are the result of justification, not the basis for it.

Before the death sentence. Before the backyard graves. Before the "zombie" doctrine.Chad Daybell was a gravedigger in Idaho who claimed the dead spoke to him.This is Part 2 of "The Chosen Ones," our psychological examination of spiritual abuse and religious trauma through the Vallow-Daybell case. Today we analyze Chad Daybell — not just what he did, but how he built the authority to make others believe he spoke for God.Chad Daybell couldn't find significance through normal channels. He wasn't a prophet in the mainstream LDS church. So he built a space where he could be one — through self-published apocalyptic novels, fringe conferences, and online communities like AVOW.He charged for books, charged for speaking appearances, charged for "readings" where he'd tell followers their light ratings and past lives. The more people paid for access to his "visions," the more power he accumulated.Then the beliefs became operational.According to testimony, Chad Daybell taught that some people had been possessed by demons — that they were "zombies" who could only be destroyed, not saved. He kept spreadsheets rating people as light or dark. Everyone rated dark ended up dead.If you've experienced religious narcissism or spiritual abuse from a charismatic leader — you'll recognize how this authority gets built.Join Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-vxmbhTxxG10sO1izODJg?sub_confirmation=1Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/TrueCrimePodThis publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.#ChadDaybell #LoriVallow #TrueCrimeToday #CultLeader #HighControlReligion #SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #ZombieDoctrine #ReligiousNarcissism #Deconstruction

In this episode, Bryan sits down with two siblings who grew up on an ostrich farm in a strict Mormon home. Their stories took very different paths—one running into rebellion, the other chasing perfection—but both eventually discovered the life-changing difference between performance-based religion and the gospel of grace.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now--James and Madi grew up in an unexpected setting—an ostrich farm—inside a deeply committed LDS home led by parents who valued hard work, obedience, and doing “all you can.” As James hit his teen years, the pressure of performance-based religion collided with real-life struggles, leading to conflict, shame, and eventually being asked to leave home at 15. Madi, only seven at the time, watched it all happen and absorbed a powerful message: don't mess up. She doubled down on Mormon checklists and perfection, while James spiraled into instability, early fatherhood, and chasing acceptance wherever he could find it.As the years passed, James carried that same performance mindset into the Marine Corps, then into adulthood—along with addiction and a strained marriage. Madi's story took a different path: religious OCD, emotional despair, theological questions she couldn't get answered, and eventually stepping away from the church entirely. But when James and his wife encountered Jesus through a local Christian church, everything shifted—his identity, his marriage, and his sense of being loved without conditions. Watching that transformation sparked Madi's own journey of deconstruction, as she began to see the profound difference between Mormon doctrine and the gospel of grace—and the hope of becoming a disciple-maker for others coming out of the same world.

In Part 2 of their conversation with licensed marriage and family therapist Ashley Buckner, the Sunday School Dropouts crew explores the deeper psychological and therapeutic impact of Mormon purity culture. Ashley shares clinical insights into how LDS structures such as worthiness interviews, the Law of Chastity, and confession culture shape a person's relationship with their body, sexuality, and sense of autonomy. Drawing from both her professional work and personal experience growing up in an unorthodox Mormon community, Ashley discusses the lasting effects purity culture can have on survivors of childhood sexual abuse, including shame cycles, anxiety, disembodiment, and difficulty trusting oneself. The conversation also addresses institutional failures within the church's handling of abuse, gender specific harms caused by purity teachings, and what real healing can look like through body based therapies, supportive communities, and rebuilding safety and self trust outside high control religion.Share your purity culture stories with us by leaving a voicemail or sending your story to us!Guest Info: Social Media: @ashleyb_therapyResources discussed in this episode: Melissa Urban - The Book of BoundariesNon Violent Communication bookNon Violent Communication graphicThis podcast is brought to you by the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery: an online trauma coaching company whose practitioners are trauma informed and trauma trained to work with individuals, couples and families who have experienced high control religion, cults, and religious trauma. For more information on the support that CTRR provides, for resources–including courses, workshops, and more–head to traumaresolutionandrecovery.com or follow us on Instagram: @traumaresolutionandrecovery The views and opinions expressed by Sunday School Dropouts are those of the hosts and not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. Any of the content provided by our guests, sponsors, authors, or bloggers are their own ideas and opinions.The Sunday School Dropouts podcast is not anti-religion but it is anti -harm, -power and control, -oppression and, -abuse and will speak to the harmful practices and messaging of fundamentalist groups. Follow Andrew on Instagram @andrew_kerbsFollow Andrew's post-SDA account @lifeafteradventismFollow Andrew's account on neurodivergence and high control religion @divergent.faith Join Andrew's Substack (Kerb Your Enthusiasm) www.andrewkerbs.substack.com To begin working with Andrew as a coach, schedule your FREE inquiry call hereFollow Laura on Instagram and TikTok @drlauraeanderson or on her website: www.drlauraeanderson.com Join Laura's Substack (Therapy in the Headlines) www.drlauraeanderson.substack.com To work with Laura as a coach, therapist, consultant, or to inquire about other services, you can do so hereHosts: Laura Anderson and Andrew Kerbs

During Chad Daybell's murder trial, prosecutors introduced some of the most chilling evidence in true crime history: spreadsheets.Documents recovered from Chad Daybell's computer showing lists of names — Tammy Daybell, Charles Vallow, Tylee Ryan, JJ Vallow, and many others — each assigned a "light and dark rating" on a spiritual scale Chad Daybell invented.Everyone rated "dark" ended up dead.This is Part 2 of "The Chosen Ones," our deep dive into the psychology of spiritual abuse and religious trauma through the Daybell case. Today we examine how Chad Daybell built his belief system, where it came from, and how it evolved from eccentric theology into a framework that justified murder.We cover: Chad Daybell's background as a gravedigger and cemetery sexton His self-published apocalyptic novels and claims they were visions from God The fringe LDS conference circuit and AVOW community How religious narcissism operates in high control religion Testimony about "light and dark ratings" and their escalation The "zombie" doctrine — how Chad Daybell taught that possessed people could only be destroyed The failed casting on Tammy Daybell and what happened next How the spreadsheets became evidence of premeditation If you're following the Daybell case closely, this episode provides essential psychological context for understanding how the murders were justified within Chad Daybell's belief system.Chad Daybell was convicted of first-degree murder in May 2024 and sentenced to death in June 2024.Join Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-vxmbhTxxG10sO1izODJg?sub_confirmation=1Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/TrueCrimePodThis publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.#ChadDaybell #DaybellTrial #LightAndDark #ZombieDoctrine #LoriVallow #CultLeader #SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #TrialEvidence #HighControlReligion

Today, we are thrilled to kick off Carol Lynn Pearson week on Mormon Stories Podcast! Join us for the re-broadcast of two very important interviews with a one-of-a-kind Mormon woman. Then, we will close out the week by welcoming Carol Lynn Pearson back on the podcast to celebrate the release of her new book, The Diaries of Carol Lynn Pearson, where we will also be joined by the director of Signature Books, Barbara Jones Brown.Carol Lynn Pearson is the author of a 1986 memoir, Goodbye, I Love You, about the death of her gay husband from AIDS.Her musical, My Turn on Earth, is among the most successful Mormon musicals of all time.Carol Lynn is an advocate for women and LGBTQ+ Mormons. Her 2007 book, “No More Goodbyes,” tells the stories of gay Mormons (and those of other faiths), coping with family, religion, and, occasionally, suicide.Today's interview was filmed in 2010, and was originally broken into four parts and released as episodes 173-177. We have compiled them into a singular episode in order to re-introduce it to our listeners.CONTENT WARNING: This series contains discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. Please listen responsibly.___________________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

** This episode talks about suicide. If you are suicidal, please call/text chat 988 ** My friend Bruce Butcher (late 50s, married father of three, active LDS) joins us in a powerful episode to share the following: Loving and accepting people in his life who are no longer in the Church “We don't punish a man for his beliefs” Losing his wonderful son Taylor to suicide in June 2024 Taylor's prayer “bless the sick and sad, help us to be the best versions of ourselves” Painful doctrine the Church used to teach about suicide—led to no hope Love of a mother is the most powerful force on earth Love of our Heavenly Mother is the most powerful force in heaven—she isn't going to cut off any of Her children Excluding people is not Christ's doctrine David Archuleta—“I'm still a fan” Being a cafeteria Mormon My apology to my LGBTQ friends I deeply loved listening to and learning from Bruce. If you are looking for more hope in your life, be more like Jesus, and love/accept people walking different roads, please listen to and share Bruce's podcast. Thank you, Bruce, for being on the podcast. You are a good man—helping so many. I'm so sorry your good son Taylor is gone. Love Taylor's heart as reflected in the words of his prayer.

Send us a Positive Review!One thing that Val is always juggling is how to do it all and maintain her sense of humor, high commitment to play, and overall sanity.  She loves running the podcast, the groups, and squeezes work with amazing LDS faith-journeying individuals and couples between the cracks (which is a highlight of her week!) Fitting it all in can become tricky, which is why she has been looking for the 'just right' person to help with individuals & couples in Utah looking for a mental health worker with the stamp of approval from Val at Latter Day Struggles. In today's episode you will meet Heather Sundahl, the newest member of Valerie's Latter Day Struggles team.  Heather is a licensed mental health worker, a resident of Utah and strongly endorsed by Valerie as someone you can trust on your faith expansion journey.   If you loved their laughter, tears (mostly Val!) and banter, you'll love knowing that Heather plans to come on a few times a year to tackle tough topics with Val relevant to your healing and growth.  Jump over to latterdaystruggles.com if you're from Utah and want to work with Heather.  Timestamps:00:00 Welcome And Guest Intro01:01 Heather Background And Mentors04:07 Early LDS Gender Messages07:03 BYU Awakening Moment09:58 Storytelling And Exponent Two12:27 Becoming A Therapist14:23 Healing Through Narrative17:42 Owning Faith Narratives19:18 Eve And Going Off Script21:35 Life Beyond The Script25:47 Navigating Church Tensions26:57 Community Over Purity28:05 Permission to Be Honest29:05 Jesus as the Anchor29:23 Self Care for LDS Women31:24 Beyond Constant Sacrifice33:51 Therapy Approach and Boundaries35:33 Staying or Leaving the Church39:02 Trusting Your Inner Compass43:43 Faith Journeys and Belonging49:08 Honoring Mormon Identity51:14 Closing Vision and Next StepsSupport the showSupport the show Listen, Share, Rate & Review EPISODES Friday Episodes Annual Access $89 Friday Episodes Monthly Access $10 Valerie's Support & Processing Groups Gift a Scholarship Download Free Resources Visit our Website

How do you recognize spiritual abuse before it's too late?It starts with feeling chosen. Someone tells you that you're special — that they can see your divine purpose, that you were set apart before birth, that the rules don't apply to someone at your level.That's how it started for Lori Vallow. A religious conference. A man named Chad Daybell. A claim that they'd been married in a past life.Within a year, her husband was dead. Within fourteen months, her children were buried in Chad Daybell's backyard.This is Part 1 of "The Chosen Ones" — a 5-part psychological deep dive into spiritual abuse, religious trauma, and high control religion through the lens of the Vallow-Daybell case.This episode examines: → How spiritual love bombing creates dependency → Why seekers and the devout are most vulnerable to religious manipulation → The fringe LDS conference circuit where Chad Daybell built his following → How "you're special" becomes "the rules don't apply to you" → Warning signs of coercive control in religious settingsIf you're experiencing a faith crisis, questioning a toxic church, or in the middle of deconstruction — you'll recognize these patterns. The tactics are the same across high control religions. Only the vocabulary changes.The first step in spiritual manipulation is making you feel chosen. The second step is making you feel exempt. Understanding these mechanics is the first step toward healing from religious trauma.CHAPTERS: 0:00 - The Conference Room [Additional chapters TBD]RESOURCES FOR SURVIVORS: Religious Trauma Institute Recovering from Religion Tears of Eden (spiritual abuse support) Join Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-vxmbhTxxG10sO1izODJg?sub_confirmation=1Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/TrueCrimePodThis publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.#SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #ChadDaybell #LoriVallow #CultPsychology #LoveBombing #HighControlReligion #Deconstruction #ToxicChurch #CultSurvivor

Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson analyze an article by LDS General Authority Randy D. Funk, who uses the legal concept of "unilateral acceptance" to frame covenant-keeping and temple ordinances as the means by which Latter-day Saints receive God's blessings. The hosts contrast this works-based approach with the evangelical view that good works are the result of justification, not the basis for it.

Send a textWe sit down with 4 young ladies that about to serve the Lord.  With the lowering of the age to 18 years old, more and more young ladies of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints are accepting the call to Serve The Lord.  In this episode we talk with Kaylee Hester, Maggie Corbitt, Logan Markette, and Ashlyn Woolsey about their desire to serve an 18 month proselyting mission.  From overcoming fears, following spiritual promptings, putting in the spiritual work, and discussing scripture, they all share why they feel a need to serve.  We discuss favorite scriptures, who inspires them, and what they are most nervous about.  Check out the latest episode of Saints In The South.  Support the Show!www.patreon.com/SaintsintheSouth(The thoughts, ideas, and beliefs we express on this channel do not officially represent The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  For additional information or official statements, please visit the website below.  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/?...)#biblestudy #oldtestament #religion #churchofJesusChrist #ldspodcast #christianpodcast #missionary #lds #biblestories #christ #faith #faithinchrist #scriptures #bookofmormon #doctrineandcovenants #pearlofgreatprice #temples #houseofthelord #mormon #mormonbeliefs #christiansandmormons #god #endure #ironrod Beyond The BeaconJoin Bishop Kevin Sweeney for inspired interviews with Catholics living out our faith!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showThanks for listening! Keep on Strivin'! Support the Show & become a "Patron Saint"!

In episode 399 of the Words of the Prophets podcast, Todd, Burke and Rivka discuss the talk “The Name by Which You are Called” by Elder Cuvelier from the October 2025 general conference.#wordsoftheprophets #generalconference #conference #ldsconference #LDS #ldspodcast #podcast #sharegoodnesshttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/words-of-the-prophetsFind us on twitter, instagram or email us at wordsoftheprophetspodcast@gmail.comFind us at youtube.com/wordsoftheprophetspodcast

Kurt Francom is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Executive Director and host of Leading Saints.I wanted to speak to Kurt about what he's learned after 16 years of having important conversations about effective leadership in Church settings.Some highlights from this episode include the biggest misunderstanding about church leadership, how to lead like the Saviour, and what the next generation of leaders should do differently.--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.

October 2018. A "Preparing a People" conference in Utah. Chad Daybell walks up to Lori Vallow and tells her they were married in a past life.This is the moment everything changed.Part 1 of "The Chosen Ones" examines how Chad Daybell used spiritual love bombing to transform Lori from a devoted LDS mother into someone who believed she was "a god assigned to carry out the work of the 144,000."We break down the mechanics of spiritual abuse:First, he made her feel seen. Chad Daybell told her she was special, chosen, set apart. He said he could recognize her spiritual significance when no one else could.Then, he made her feel exempt. According to testimony, Lori would say "It doesn't count for me" when doing things that would normally require repentance. Chad Daybell had convinced her the rules didn't apply to someone at her level.Then came the labels. Charles wasn't her husband anymore — he was a demon named "Ned." The children weren't her children — they were "zombies" possessed by dark spirits.This episode traces the path from that first conference to Charles Vallow's death in July 2019. We examine the AVOW community, the fringe LDS conference circuit, and the belief system Chad Daybell built that would eventually justify murder.If you're following the Daybell case — or if you've experienced religious trauma yourself — this episode provides essential psychological context.Join Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-vxmbhTxxG10sO1izODJg?sub_confirmation=1Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/TrueCrimePodThis publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.#ChadDaybell #LoriVallow #DaybellCase #SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #LoveBombing #CultPsychology #HighControlReligion #AVOW #Deconstruction

Week 11 - Genesis 37-41:  "have you heard of the story of Joesph backwards?"

Jared Lambert explores the hidden biblical and historical truths about the divine feminine, the role of women in scripture, and the linguistic and cultural influences shaping our understanding of the Bible and ancient texts. This conversation reveals how these truths are often erased or hidden, and how modern study by regular people can restore them.Eliza R. Snow referred to as "Priestess, Prophetess, and Presidentess": www.reliefsocietywomen.com/blog/2009/07/08/eliza-r-snowLearn more about Jared and find his classes: https://veiledroots.com/Follow him: instagram.com/jrichardlambertJoin the conversation! Go to patreon.com/InHerImagePodcast to be added to a Facebook chat and Marco Polo group with podcast host Meg Rittmanic, producer Jess Burdette, and other IHI listeners.Biblical history, divine feminine, scripture study, Hebrew linguistics, temple symbolism, biblical narratives, women in scripture, ancient Near Eastern traditions, restoration, LDS teachings

Here are the top four vote-getters of notable Latter-day Saints — from outside the ranks of the church's general authorities and officers — whom you would like to have speak at next month's General Conference? https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/02/26/hows-this-lds-conference-speakers/ New “Greater Love” Easter video celebrates Jesus Christ's love for “you”? https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/03/01/new-greater-love-easter-video-celebrates-jesus-christ-love-for-you/ Watch Elder Caussé play, speak of this newly added Easter hymn? https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/02/27/watch-elder-causse-play-piano-speak-of-new-hymn/ Watch: Free Easter lesson for families to learn about Christ (title inferred from page references)? https://www.ldsliving.com/watch-free-easter-lesson-for-families-to-learn-about-christ/s/13168 Find long-lost family at LDS Church–sponsored event (RootsTech 2026 coverage)? https://www.abc4.com/news/wasatch-front/find-long-lost-family-at-lds-church-sponsored-event/ Iconic LDS Church temple in San Diego offering once-in-a-generation public access? https://fox5sandiego.com/san-diego-guide/san-diego-lds-church-temple-open-house-2026/ Joyful photos from Zimbabwe's first temple dedication? https://www.ldsliving.com/joyful-photos-from-zimbabwes-first-temple-dedication/s/13166 Harare Zimbabwe Temple (almanac entry; title on Church News almanac page)? https://www.thechurchnews.com/almanac/temples/harare-zimbabwe/ Utah wife allegedly killed rich Mormon husband in their mansion so she could be with new lover... now HIS marriage secrets are aired in court? https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/crime-desk/article-15608361/kouri-richins-utah-trial-affair-husband.html LIVE UPDATES | Day 9 of Kouri Richins murder trial ? https://www.eastidahonews.com/2026/03/live-updates-day-9-of-kouri-richins-murder-trial/ ‘Word of Wisdom Amendments' introduced as alternative in Utah kratom ban debate (exact headline styling may vary)? https://www.fox13now.com/news/politics/mormon-word-of-wisdom-introduced-in-bill-debate-over-utahs-kratom-ban ‘Rise Up and Speak' showcases Eliza R. Snow's timeless discourses in early days of LDS Church (ABC4 religion feature)? https://www.abc4.com/news/religion/rise-up-and-speak-book-eliza-r-snows-discourses/ New LDS book highlights words of Eliza R. Snow? https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/03/04/new-lds-book-highlights-words/ No forgiveness: ‘Murder in the Mormon Frontier' with journalist, author Dan Neal? https://buckrail.com/no-forgiveness-murder-in-the-mormon-frontier-with-journalist-author-dan-neal/ ‘Let scripture surprise you' — LDS authors on how to teach the Old Testament to children? https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/03/01/lds-authors-teaching-old-testament/ Quentin L. Cook on AI's ‘unique spiritual challenges' (guidance facing the AI age)? https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/03/03/elder-cook-guidance-facing-ai-age-unique-spiritual-challenges/ LDS Church–backed A.I. bill would make it easier to sue over damaging ‘deepfakes'? https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2026/03/03/deep-fakes-lds-church-backs-bill/ The truth behind Utah's latest plastic surgery phenomenon: the ‘Mormon makeover'? https://www.dailymail.co.uk/lifestyle/beauty/article-15547481/mormon-face-truth-utah-plastic-surgery-trend-craze-cosmetic.html Church of Jesus Christ releases statement on Iran strikes? https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/02/28/church-of-jesus-christ-releases-statement-on-iran-strikes/ Following cartel-related violence, Mexico Area Presidency invites members to pray for peace in the country? https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/02/27/following-cartel-related-violence-mexico-area-presidency-invites-members-to-pray-for-peace-in-the-country/ An LDS pioneer-era extermination order still weighs on the Timpanogos Nation? https://www.kuer.org/race-religion-social-justice/2026-03-02/an-lds-pioneer-era-extermination-order-still-weighs-on-the-timpanogos-nation 60 years ago today (Mar 6, 1966) – Today in Mormon History? http://www.todayinmormonhistory.com/2026/03/60-years-ago-today-mar-6-1966.html 105 years ago today (Mar 5, 1921) – Today in Mormon History? http://www.todayinmormonhistory.com/2026/03/105-years-ago-today-mar-5-1921.html 175 years ago today (Mar 4, 1851) – Today in Mormon History? http://www.todayinmormonhistory.com/2026/03/175-years-ago-today-mar-4-1851-tuesday.html

Here on The LDS Mission Podcast, Episode 246 – Reclaiming Purpose, we talk about what to do when you feel like you've lost your purpose on the mission, after the mission, or even as a missionary mama. If you're currently serving and struggling with anxiety, rejection, comparison, or discouragement, or if you're a returned missionary feeling directionless and wondering what's next, this episode is for you. I share why purpose is not something assigned externally through a calling, leadership role, or title—but something you intentionally create. When life feels hard, when you're on the "struggle bus," or when your lower caveman brain tells you something has gone wrong, you are not broken. Highs and lows are part of the plan. In this episode, we explore how to reclaim purpose by shifting from "this is happening to me" to "this is happening for me." I teach how to reframe rejection, conflict with companions, anxiety, post-mission transition struggles, and unmet expectations into resilience, growth, compassion, and future leadership capacity. We talk about consecrating our afflictions for our gain (2 Nephi 2:2), giving meaning to difficult experiences, and choosing empowering purpose instead of victim energy. Through stories like David and Goliath, Romans 8:28, and real coaching examples, I show you how your struggles can become preparation—not proof that you're failing. You may not control what happens on your mission or after it, but you do get to choose the meaning you assign to it. Ask yourself: What is happening? What purpose am I currently giving it? What purpose would I like to give it instead? When you intentionally reclaim your purpose, even anxiety, rejection, loneliness, or transition seasons can become fuel for growth, momentum, and becoming more like Christ—because that is the ultimate work and glory. Episode 246 – Reclaiming Purpose reminds you that purpose isn't discovered… it's created. As always, if you found this episode helpful, I want to invite you to subscribe if you aren't already, share this episode with your friends and missionaries you know, and write a review. I know this work will help LDS missionaries around the world and it would mean so much to me if you did. Until next week my friends.   Website | Instagram | Facebook   5 Ways to Process Any Less-Than Happy Mission Memories Article: HERE   Get the Full Show Notes and Text/PDF Transcripts: HERE   Free PDF Download:  Podcast Roadmap   Free PDF Download:  Preparing Missionary Cheat Sheet   Free Training for Preparing Missionaries:  Change Your Mission with this One Tool   RM Transition Free Video Series:  3 Tools to Help RMs in Their Transition Home   Free Guide:  5 Tips to Help Any Returning Missionary   Schedule a Free Strategy Call:   Click Here  

Send me a DM here (it doesn't let me respond), OR email me: imagineabetterworld2020@gmail.comToday I'm honored to have back on the show, LDS abuse whistleblower, investigative researcher, journalist and reporter, creator of LDS Abuse, excommunicated lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, loving father, nature lover, and a man on a mission to help members of the spiritual body known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints know what to expect from their church if they become victims of abuse: Justin Riggs In case you are new here or missed Justin's previous episodes, here is a little bit about him and what we've discussed to catch you up as well as a sneak peek into what he will be discussing with us today: A life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Justin was recently ex-communicated from the church - which ironically aims to help cultivate a safer environment in the church for abuse victims, children, and survivors. As many of you know from listening to this podcast or similar podcasts, religious institutions have - over time - become cesspools for abuse to happen and for abusers to hide - and the LDS church is no exception. This is not to say that all members of the church are corrupt or bad - this is to say that Justin has revealed some hidden connections that have been in plain sight connecting the LDS church to a long-standing relationship with the CIA as well as exposing the systemic problem of ritual abuse that has since manifested into countless testimonies from survivors who were preyed upon by perpetraitors hiding behind the goodwill and secrecy embedded into the church's very foundations. In Justin's words: “When people get abused in the Church and seek help, they think they're going to get treated as a child of God, but instead they learn very quickly that their experience is dangerous to the brand of LDS, Inc., and they get treated like a Human Resource problem.”On today's episode, Justin is going to examine the alleged ties between the recently released Jeffrey Epstein documents and Utah/Mormon communities, highlighting mentions like Park City trafficking references, a bizarre 2022 letter claiming a woman's University of Utah daughter sent weekly pints of “Mormon blood” to Epstein in exchange for school expenses, and drawing parallels to ritual abuse survivor testimonies. Through Justin's tireless investigations, he amplifies the voices of survivors, challenges entrenched power structures, and calls for accountability, healing, and safer spaces for children and victims. Justin's work embodies the rare blend of intellectual rigor, moral conviction, and heartfelt empathy - reminding us all that one person's relentless pursuit of light can ignite hope, spark reform, and ultimately help break cycles of darkness for generations to come. His bravery inspires us to confront uncomfortable truths, stand with the silenced, and believe that justice and compassion can prevail when good people refuse to look away.CONNECT WITH JUSTIN:X: @ldsabuse - https://x.com/ldsabuseWebsite: https://ldsabuse.info/CONNECT WITH EMMA:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationpodcastofficialRumble: https://rumble.com/c/TheImaginationPodcastEMAIL: imagineabetterworld2020@gmail.com OR standbysurvivors@protonmail.comMy Substack: https://emmakatherine.substack.com/BUY ME A COFFEE: Support the show

Why are Latter-day Saints so eager to build temples, and are "temple works" really a New Testament practice? In these Viewpoint shows, MRM's Eric Johnson and Bill McKeever explore the doctrine behind LDS temples. Mormonism's practice of temple building has no basis in either the New Testament or early Christian history, making LDS temple worship a uniquely Mormon doctrine.

Why are Latter-day Saints so eager to build temples, and are "temple works" really a New Testament practice? In these Viewpoint shows, MRM's Eric Johnson and Bill McKeever explore the doctrine behind LDS temples. Mormonism's practice of temple building has no basis in either the New Testament or early Christian history, making LDS temple worship a uniquely Mormon doctrine.

Aaron Koppe knew he was gay when he was just 10 years old. Growing up in the Netherlands, the culture around him was accepting. But inside his LDS faith, the path forward felt far less clear. Aaron tried for years to reconcile his identity with the expectations of the church. He came out to his father at 16, later served in a temple mission, and did everything he could to live the life he believed he was supposed to. But eventually, the weight of living someone else's version of happiness became too heavy. At 25, Aaron made the decision to start dating men. Not long after, his church membership was revoked. And yet, Aaron's story didn't end there. Today, he still attends church and continues to build a life defined by his own choices, his own faith, and the people who love him as he is.  

Today, we are very excited to have back on the podcast Bible scholar and best selling author, Bart Ehrman! Bart has very recently retired as a professor from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and he is here with us today to “meet the Mormons” and answer questions on the Old Testament, New Testament, and even offers his professional opinions on Book of Mormon History. Bart and the panel will also discuss his brand new book, Love Thy Stranger, and some of his other works that we believe our audience would love.We are truly privileged to have Bart with us today to share his thoughts on the history of Jesus and the Bible, and hope you find this conversation as engaging as we did. You can pre-order Love They Stranger here.___________________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

Can we start a petition to bring back Tamron Hall for the tell-all's? Fire Sukanya!Love the girls? Get more of their cringey, awesome content at Patreon.com/realitytvcringe!Follow us on IG https://instagram.com/realitytvcringeSubscribe to see our raccoon faces on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_2CgqXLWjIEKV9PCtH3Kjw?sub_confirmation=1Leave a message for us on SpeakPipe: https://speakpipe.com/realitytvcringeSupport the pod by leaving a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform! Thank you so much.

The time has come for a new apostle in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Clark G. Gilbert; time for your podcast hosts to rise to the occasion with another Apostolic Profile episode. He escaped the religious persecution Mormons often suffer growing up in Scottsdale, AZ, to go to BYU. Then off to Harvard for business, to acquire more useful skills for his forthcoming career in the Church Education System (CES). Before CES, however, Gilbert was responsible for trimming all the fat at Deseret News, which amounted to firing 40% of the workforce and shifting it to an unabashedly apologetic mission statement defending the church. Once appointed to CES, Gilbert instituted a series of Orwellian surveillance systems at BYU to punish thought crime; Ernest Wilkinson would be proud and Jeffrey Holland finally has a man to fire some muskets. Now Gilbert joins as the youngest apostle, securing his future position as prophet circa 2050s-70s. This "disruptive innovator" has a lot of new ideas to keep the church as extremist-conservative as is legally permissible heading into the 22nd century. This call to the Apostleship by Dallin Oaks ensures Oaks' legacy remains long after he's become a shepherd of worms. Patrons get a bonus segment comparing Gilbert's interviews at Deseret News and SL Tribune immediately after his ordination, which tangentially serves as a case study for the deterioration of journalism at Deseret Media, due to Gilbert himself. After that, it's our next installment of Oaks' book, Pure in Heart, where he discusses the importance of mindset and intentionality when rendering service, especially for the church. We end with happy news about a potential future cure for Type 1 Diabetes.    Show Notes:  Clark Gilbert https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clark_G._Gilbert Gilbert's likely tenure as future prophet https://www.reddit.com/r/mormon/comments/1r8c74x/on_his_first_day_in_the_q15_clark_g_gilbert/ Official press release https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/clark-gilbert-called-quorum-of-the-twelve-apostles Gilbert Op-ed for ChurchNewsroom https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/how-education-family-and-testimony-are-fundamental-in-the-life-of-elder-clark-g-gilbert The Parable of the Slope https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2021/10/16gilbert?lang=eng Disruptive Technologies: Catching the Wave https://hbr.org/1995/01/disruptive-technologies-catching-the-wave The Disruption Machine by Jill Lepore https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2014/06/23/the-disruption-machine Gilbert's profile on BYU Law and Wheatley Institute with law-focused talks https://www.religiousfreedomlibrary.org/authors/clark-g-gilbert Gilbert: Stewardship of Our First Freedom https://www.religiousfreedomlibrary.org/documents/the-stewardship-of-our-first-freedom#note-30 Gilbert: The Courage of Our Convictions https://www.religiousfreedomlibrary.org/documents/the-courage-of-our-convictions-how-religious-expression-goes-beyond-religious-liberty Gilbert: Dare to be Different https://www.deseret.com/2022/9/14/23319209/elder-clark-gilbert-religious-universities-should-dare-to-be-different/ American Disestablishment: The Conclusion by Miles Smith https://davenantinstitute.org/american-disestablishment-the-conclusion/ Disestablishmentarianism https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disestablishmentarianism Governance and the Religion Question: Voluntaryism, Disestablishment, and America's Church-State Proposition by Carl H. Esbeck https://scholarship.law.missouri.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1156&context=facpubs Becket Foundation "Religious Liberty" SCOTUS victories https://becketfund.org/cases/?fwp_case_court=us-supreme-court&fwp_case_status=past Hosanna-Tabor https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/565/171/ Trinity Lutheran https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/582/15-577/ Our Lady of Guadalupe https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/591/19-267/ Carson v. Makin https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/596/20-1088/ How SCOTUS is Dismantling the Separation of Church and State https://www.americanprogress.org/article/how-the-supreme-court-is-dismantling-the-separation-of-church-and-state/ American Council of Education https://www.influencewatch.org/non-profit/american-council-on-education/ Becoming BYU https://aims.byu.edu/becoming-byu LDS Education Boss Touts BYU's Commitment to Religious Freedom by Peggy Fletcher Stack https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2025/01/24/byu-will-never-back-away-its/ Spiritual Crackdown at BYU? By RadioWest https://radiowest.kuer.org/podcast/radiowest/2025-01-16/a-spiritual-crackdown-at-brigham-young-university BYU New Employment Policy https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2022/03/10/new-employment-policy/ BYU employment questionnaire https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/ecclesiastical-leader-questions-new-ces-hires Fine Print: The Deseret News Spins its Circulation Numbers by Rachel Piper https://www.cityweekly.net/news/fine-print-the-deseret-news-spins-its-circulation-numbers-2207487 Dallin Oaks and Clark Gilbert: Stand Fast with Love in Proclaiming Truth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6IXLufuAAQ Gilbert Deseret News interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORUY06HPmfM Gilbert SL Trib interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FPwhJhBJ-A Ben Park video on Gilbert https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTXXNeydptg Gordon Monson: Clark Gilbert has been called as an LDS apostle. Now, we'll see if he's chosen. https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/02/13/maybe-clark-gilbert-will-be/  Gordon Monson: LDS Church education boss should put down the hammer at BYU and pick up an olive branch: https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2025/01/06/byu-there-is-too-much-fear-too/  Dark days: New rules have BYU professors running scared https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2025/01/05/byu-blue-why-these-are-dark-days/    Sword of Laman: Pure In Heart, by Dallin H. Oaks  The Mansion, by Henry Van Dyke: https://americanliterature.com/author/henry-van-dyke/short-story/the-mansion    Happy News:  A bold new plan could finally cure Type 1 diabetes: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260302030648.htm    Quackery: A Brief History of the Worst Ways to Cure Everything by Lydia Kang and Nate Pedersen   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 We

Why are Latter-day Saints so eager to build temples, and are "temple works" really a New Testament practice? In these Viewpoint shows, MRM's Eric Johnson and Bill McKeever explore the doctrine behind LDS temples. Mormonism's practice of temple building has no basis in either the New Testament or early Christian history, making LDS temple worship a uniquely Mormon doctrine.

Why are Latter-day Saints so eager to build temples, and are "temple works" really a New Testament practice? In these Viewpoint shows, MRM's Eric Johnson and Bill McKeever explore the doctrine behind LDS temples. Mormonism's practice of temple building has no basis in either the New Testament or early Christian history, making LDS temple worship a uniquely Mormon doctrine.

When Latter-day Saints hear the phrase "Purity Culture," they may associate it more with evangelical churches than with our own. LDS talks and lessons focus on words like virtue, modesty, morality, and chastity to describe our ideals. But regardless of the specific words used, the messages are the same. Therapist C.A. Larson points out, "Purity culture is a moral control system that ties worth to sexual behavior, especially for women. [...] Purity culture in the LDS Church is institutional, enforced through interviews, modesty rules, and silence around consent." In Episode 253, Cynthia and Susan welcome C.A. back to ALSSI for a discussion about Purity Culture: what it is, its psychological and emotional impacts, and its systemic connection to sexual abuse. It's a conversation that makes space for grief and anger, and identifies healing paths. C.A. explains, "Healing is not about becoming more sexual or less sexual. It is about embracing our agency...relearning consent, trusting bodily signals, separating worth from obedience, reclaiming choice, going slowly and allowing ambivalence. You don't owe your body to doctrine, and you don't owe your healing to anyone else's timeline."CW: sexual abuse

In this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we speak with Christopher Jenkins, a former LDS bishop, about his personal experience with the Church's abuse hotline. While serving as bishop in Washington, a ward member confessed abuse to him. When Christopher called the Church's hotline for guidance, he says he was told he was not a mandatory reporter and felt pressured not to report the abuse to authorities.Christopher walks us through both calls he made to the hotline, the legal framing of the guidance he received, and the lack of follow-up afterward. He also discusses broader issues surrounding clergy confidentiality, how reporting requirements vary by jurisdiction, and what he perceived as the Church's focus on institutional liability rather than victim care.We also explore how he now views mandatory reporting laws, the Church's opposition to certain reporting requirements in Washington, and larger questions about abuse prevention, bishop training, and accountability. Christopher shares how this experience, along with navigating life as the father of LGBTQ+ children, contributed to significant shifts in his faith.This conversation centers on leadership responsibility, ethical decision-making, and what happens when institutional guidance conflicts with personal conscience.___________________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

Send us a Positive Review!In this episode Val is joined by Jana Riess, author and researcher of the LDS spectrum of experience and Jason Bergman, former BYU professor & faculty member.  Together they discuss the many facets of the Clark Gilbert call to the Q12 of the LDS church.   In this conversation Jason contrasts his experience on the BYU faculty both before and during Gilbert's leadership and candidly shares the painful and life altering impact Gilbert's fervor for loyalty and conformity of LDS orthodoxy had on him and his career.  They also explore the possibility that well-intended loyalty to tradition can actually fracture lives, families, and even the potential good that churches can do in the long run--especially when loyalty to old ways end up getting in the way of further light and truth hiding in plain sight.  Join them for another bold, courageous, and candid conversation inviting spiritual growth in and around the LDS church.  Jana's Salt Lake Tribune ArticleTimestamps:00:00 Welcome and Guests00:36 Why This Topic Matters01:55 Jana Riess Research03:42 Jason BYU Background07:20 Mixed Reactions Online12:11 Why Gilbert Stands Out17:27 Culture Warrior Defined27:12 Polarization and Autonomy35:53 BYU Orthodoxy Crackdown40:43 Honor Code Turmoil Timeline43:58 Choosing to Leave BYU44:56 Faculty Fear and Silence47:15 Big Tent Tensions49:14 Incognito Faculty Support52:41 Loyalty Oath Explained58:33 Surveillance and Dismissals01:00:35 Hiring and Worthiness Filters01:02:52 Growth Versus Orthodoxy01:07:31 Data on Same Sex Marriage01:10:02 What BYU Lost01:17:44 Evolution One Funeral01:20:46 Gerontocracy and Mini Me01:22:07 Final Thanks and FarewellSupport the showSupport the show Listen, Share, Rate & Review EPISODES Friday Episodes Annual Access $89 Friday Episodes Monthly Access $10 Valerie's Support & Processing Groups Gift a Scholarship Download Free Resources Visit our Website

My friend Mark White (professor, LMFT, aspiring ally, mid-60s, active LDS) joins us to talk about his new children's book—which is focused on an 8-year-old's decision about being baptized in the context of having two gay dads who attend church with her—and what we can do to be better allies/advocates to queer Latter-day Saints and their families. Mark shares the following: Journey to be an aspiring ally/advocate Clinical experience His publishing company (Firefly Inkworks) and new book, Indigo's Baptism George Gerbner's cultivation theory The power of stories Representation matters To be seen Future books Need for all kinds of queer stories, including narratives for a book on LDS Trans and gender nonconforming persons Mark invites a discussion about how we can be a better ally/advocate (friend, parent, local leader, etc.), including asking our queer friends to let us know what they need and indicate whether we truly are an ally/advocate. The children of queer LDS parents are essentially invisible in LDS culture. Mark hopes Indigo's Baptism is a small step in increasing representation. He desires we use all the resources available to better support our queer friends. And if you are queer or have queer parent(s), Mark prays his work will give you hope as he talks about his love for and support of the queer community. Please contact him if you are interested in publishing a book or are willing to contribute a narrative to the book he and colleagues are working on that focuses on the needs and stories of current or former members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who are trans and gender nonconforming. Thank you, Mark, for being on the podcast. You are making a difference. You give me hope. Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587754991132 Mark's publishing company: www.fireflyinkworks.com Etsy store where you can buy Indigo's Baptism: https://www.etsy.com/shop/FireflyInkworks?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=4459276962&from_page=listing Instagram: fireflyinkworks Mark's e-mail: fireflyinkworks@gmail.com Mark's outline: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/awvy653dh8ubvi44uxcyb/LLL.Podcast-Outline.Indigo-s-Baptism.Feb-2026.pdf?rlkey=2b6fn8xxu4e37iiiqvexk6c20&dl=0

Welcome to Part 33 of our series with historian John G. Turner, based on his landmark biography Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.In this episode, we dive into Chapter 26 (titled “David”) and explore one of the most controversial patterns in Joseph Smith's leadership: how he responded when trusted insiders became vocal critics.As pressure mounted from Missouri over the attempted assassination of Lilburn Boggs, Joseph faced internal dissent from figures like John C. Bennett and Orson Pratt. We examine the fallout surrounding Sarah Pratt, the publication of the so-called “Happiness Letter,” and the devastating public denunciation that followed.Was Joseph defending himself from slander? Or was he fighting dirty in the press?Today we discuss the allegations surrounding Nancy Rigdon and Sarah Pratt, Joseph's public rebukes and “Judas” comparisons, the (embarrassing) re-baptism of the Pratts, the role of Brigham Young in publicly acknowledging plural marriage, the publication of John C. Bennett, Joseph's legal maneuvers to avoid extradition, his complicated and evolving stance on slavery, and the larger pattern of character assassination within early Mormonism.We also explore Joseph's interaction with Illinois Governor Thomas Ford, the power of the Nauvoo Charter, and the increasingly emboldened posture of the church leadership as dissent intensified.This is a complex and uncomfortable chapter –one that forces us to wrestle with competing testimonies, public smears, loyalty under pressure, and the high cost of dissent.If you'd like to help keep this project going, please consider donating to support this series here. Your support makes long-form, in-depth historical discussion like this possible!Purchase John Turner's book here.___________________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