Podcasts about lds church

A repeat broadcast from March 2022 concerning an article written by SL Tribune religion writer Peggy Fletcher Stack. Join Bill and Eric as they discuss the article.

My friend Dr. Seth Bott (PhD in Music Arts and Organ Performance, Director of Music, late 30s, Choir Master and Organist at St. James Episcopal Church, organ instructor, frequent performer in LDS spaces like education week) joins us to share his powerful story: Growing up in Castle Dale, Utah—dream of being a Tabernacle Organist Knowing he was gay—never going to tell anyone—believe just being gay was a sin until an Elder Holland talk Great mission, great experience at BYU (undergraduate and graduate degrees). Dream of being a Tabernacle Organist on track Friends getting married, not able to make it with a girl, desired companionship, finally started to come out Positive coming out experiences with family—including very tender experience with his Dad Dating men, being in an 11-year relationship which ended, his current partner Michael (super good relationship) Finding new dreams—not going to be a Tabernacle Organist Respect for LDS Church and respect for all paths that LGB Latter-day Saints walk Going back to his childhood ward in Castle Dale with his boyfriend for his parents' homecoming and performing a musical number during the service. Love and acceptance for both of them—a little slice of Zion. Thank you, Seth, for being on the podcast. Respect for all your accomplished in your life with music, teaching and leading with love—like Jesus does. You are a good man and are doing so much to make this world a better place. Links: Seth's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seth.bott.5 Seth's IG: @sethgbott Church News Article about Seth: https://www.thechurchnews.com/living-faith/2024/09/18/organ-virtuoso-series-concert-2024-salt-lake-tabernacle-organ-seth-bott/

A repeat broadcast from March 2022 concerning an article written by SL Tribune religion writer Peggy Fletcher Stack. Join Bill and Eric as they discuss the article.

In Episode 80 of our LDS Discussions series, Julia, Kolby, and Nemo the Mormon join together for a deep dive into one of the most significant financial controversies in modern Latter-day Saint history: Ensign Peak Advisors and the SEC's investigation into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The discussion begins by examining what Ensign Peak Advisors is, why the Church created an enormous investment reserve, and whether maintaining such a fund is inherently problematic. From there, the panel walks through the timeline leading up to the 2019 whistleblower revelations and the 2023 SEC Order, exploring the Church's filing practices, the creation of 13 shell companies, and the legal findings that concluded the Church intentionally obscured the size of its investment portfolio. Along the way, we analyze statements from Church leaders including Roger Clarke, Christopher Waddell, Elder Ballard, Elder Packer, Joseph F. Smith, Lorenzo Snow, and others, comparing modern financial practices with historical teachings on tithing. We also discuss the evolution of tithing slips, the Church's growing investment portfolio, estimates of annual tithing revenue, David Nielsen's whistleblower allegations, and the ethical implications of the Church's financial secrecy. Finally, the panel examines the SEC's findings in detail, asking difficult questions about honesty, accountability, transparency, and whether a church that teaches integrity should be held to the same legal and ethical standards it expects of its members. This episode provides one of the most comprehensive examinations of the Ensign Peak controversy, combining historical documents, SEC records, Church statements, and primary sources to better understand what happened –and why it matters. If you enjoy these in-depth historical analyses, please like, subscribe, and share this episode. Your support helps us continue producing thoroughly researched content exploring the history and truth claims of Mormonism.___________________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

Why are so many people leaving the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—and what can families do to preserve their relationships when it happens?Jimmy sits down with Jeff Strong, author of Torn, for one of the most thoughtful and compassionate conversations ever featured on the podcast. Drawing from years of research, leadership as a bishop and mission president, and his own family's experience, Jeff shares what he learned about faith transitions, church culture, and why so many people feel misunderstood during one of the most difficult seasons of their lives.Rather than debating doctrine, this episode explores empathy, curiosity, family relationships, vulnerability, and how people with deeply different beliefs can continue to love and understand one another.Whether you're an active member, former member, or simply interested in better conversations around faith, this episode offers wisdom that extends far beyond religion.Follow Jeff Strong: IG

What was it like growing up as a girl in Mormonism? What about in Seventh-day Adventism? You might be surprised by how much these two very different religions have in common. In this episode, Melissa Duge Spiers joins Mormonish for an honest conversation about purity culture, modesty, dating, shame, and the expectations placed on women in our respective faith traditions. Melissa shares her experiences growing up Seventh-day Adventist, while I reflect on my own upbringing in the LDS Church. Along the way, we discover striking similarities in the messages we received about our bodies, our worth, and what it meant to be a “good” young woman. This isn't about comparing which religion was “better” or “worse.” It's about exploring the lasting impact of these teachings, sharing our stories with empathy, and talking about what healing and growth can look like on the other side. Whether you were raised Mormon, Seventh-day Adventist, or in another faith tradition, we think you'll find plenty to relate to in this heartfelt conversation. We'd love to hear your own experiences in the comments! SUBSTACK: https://substack.com/@melissadugespiers BOOK: https://www.lakedrivebooks.com/books/holy-disobedience/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/the.glory.whole/ TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@theglorywhole YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@theglorywhole3831This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Is Mormonism simply another Christian denomination, or does it teach a different gospel? In this episode, we examine the core doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) in light of Scripture. We'll compare what Mormonism teaches about God, Jesus Christ, salvation, authority, and eternal life with the truth revealed in the Bible. Topics include: The authority of Scripture vs. additional revelation Who God is according to the Bible The biblical identity of Jesus Christ Salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone The Book of Mormon and other LDS scriptures Temple ordinances, baptism for the dead, and exaltation Practical tips for sharing the gospel with LDS missionaries and friends Our goal is not to attack individuals but to lovingly test every teaching by God's Word (1 John 4:1) and contend for the faith once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3). Key Scriptures: Galatians 1:6–9, John 1:1–3, Isaiah 43:10, Ephesians 2:8–9, Romans 3:28, Titus 3:5–7, Hebrews 1:1–2. If this episode encourages you, like, subscribe, and share to help proclaim the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Soli Deo Gloria.

Why are so many young Mormons leaving the Church? Today, we're joined by Hailey Walker to explore that question through the lens of her own Mormon story.Hailey was raised in the Church in Alaska, where growing up Mormon looked very different from the experience many members have in Utah. As a teenager, she began asking questions about feminism, Church culture, and the role of women, but still considered herself a committed believer. Hoping to strengthen her testimony, she chose to serve a mission and was called to serve in Minneapolis, Minnesota.What followed would fundamentally reshape her relationship with the Church. Hailey was serving her mission when COVID-19 broke out, and was sent home. She was eventually allowed to return to her mission, but was then informed that her service would be extended by an additional six months. She describes feeling trapped by the decision, unable to simply return home on her own because missionaries do not control their own housing, transportation, or finances.Throughout the conversation, we discuss why so many young members—particularly young women—are questioning or leaving the LDS Church today. From gender roles and institutional authority to diversity, politics, and personal autonomy, Hailey offers a thoughtful perspective on why an increasing number of young people no longer feel at home in Mormonism.___________________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

Send us a Positive Review!In this episode Valerie tackles a seemingly contradictory pair of claims: The LDS church is experiencing record-breaking growth! The LDS church is experiencing record-breaking defection! Is one narrative simply not true? Interestingly, the answer is no, both narratives are true. Join Val as she unpacks these seemingly contradictory claims & breaks down how these claims reflect specific kinds of data collection.  She also explores how these narratives are tracking two different demographics of people in different stages of faith and consciousness development.Valerie's hope in episodes like this is to shine a light on normative human growth & development in the context of faith and to illustrate how the churches that do not understand or believe in stages of faith development only serve populations in [important but] earlier stages of growth & pathologize those in later stages, causing ever increasing levels of family fractures and institutional defection. PS: to read more & see the data, pick up a copy of download the book Torn: Why People We Love are Leaving the Church and What We Can Learn from Them by Jeff Strong, linked HERE.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome and Series Setup02:45 Two Conflicting Narratives04:16 Record Baptisms Data06:17 Disaffiliation Statistics12:01 Both And Explanation14:03 Three LDS Demographics14:21 Active Core Strengths17:58 Disaffiliated Core Growth22:30 Never Fully Affiliated26:11 Stages of Faith Framework29:26 Attachment Stage Church Fit31:02 Differentiation and Homelessness41:44 Integration and Compassion44:20 Closing ReflectionsSupport the showStories of Healing: Live Event July 30th in SLCSupport the showListen, Share, Rate & Review EPISODESFriday Episodes Annual Access $89Friday Episodes Monthly Access $10Valerie's Support & Processing GroupsGift a ScholarshipDownload Free ResourcesVisit our Website

Back in 2017, I sat down with Anne Wilde, one of the foremost experts on modern-day polygamy. While I like to call her the First Lady of Fundamentalism, she has lived an incredibly unique life as an Independent Fundamentalist. For 33 years, Anne lived as the secret second wife of Ogden Kraut, a prolific fundamentalist author whose 65 books she personally helped write and edit. From the secret history of Mormon schisms to her own spiritual journey, you won’t want to miss this fascinating conversation! https://youtu.be/LH2zMt27kxM Don't miss our other conversations Shannon: https://gospeltangents.com/people/shannon-flynn Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Check out a transcript of the interview on Amazon. Pick up a transcript of our conversation! Raised in the mainstream LDS Church, Anne later became an “Independent Fundamentalist” and lived for 33 years as the secret second wife of prolific fundamentalist author Ogden Kraut. This sweeping conversation covers everything from the hidden history of Mormon schisms to controversial theology and modern civil rights. Hidden History of Post-Manifesto Polygamy Many believe plural marriage ended abruptly with the LDS Church’s 1890 Manifesto, but Anne explains it was more like a sunset: “when does it get dark? It’s just gradually.” She points to an uncanonized 1886 revelation received by Church President John Taylor, which fundamentalists believe declared plural marriage an everlasting covenant that could not be changed. Consequently, polygamy continued underground and in places like Mexico and Canada. It took the 1904 Second Manifesto and the 1933 Third Manifesto—which enforced excommunication for those practicing plural marriage—to create a permanent rift between the mainstream church and fundamentalist groups. Untangling the Polygamous Sects One of Anne’s main goals is to dispel the myth that all polygamists are the same. She breaks down the diverse landscape of modern polygamy: The AUB (Apostolic United Brethren): With about 7,500 members, this group has a priesthood council and allows members more free agency in choosing their spouses. (Kody Brown of the TV show Sister Wives comes from this tradition.) FLDS (Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints): Notorious for the extreme one-man rule of Warren Jeffs, this group practices arranged marriages and strict dress codes. Anne notes that Jeffs’ oppressive control and habit of splitting up families has caused their numbers to plummet. Since he went to prison, the numbers are about 10% of what they were. Centennial Park: A breakaway group of about 2,000 members who separated from the FLDS because they wanted a priesthood council rather than a one-man dictatorship. Ervil LeBaron: Anne also discusses dangerous outliers like Ervil LeBaron, a militant polygamist who claimed his own priesthood authority and became an assassin responsible for roughly 20 deaths, including that of AUB leader Rulon Allred. Independent Fundamentalists: Anne identifies with this category—believers who adhere to early doctrines and plural marriage but choose not to affiliate with any centralized sect. Surprising Stances on Gay Marriage Despite their conservative theology, Anne reveals that many fundamentalists support the legalization of gay marriage. Viewing it through the lens of civil rights, she argues that if polygamists want the government to decriminalize their own family structures, they must grant the same free agency to the LGBTQ+ community. She also expressed deep disappointment with the LDS Church’s 2015 policy that temporarily barred the children of gay parents from being baptized, feeling it wrongly punished children. Anne Wilde’s Controversial Theology: Was Jesus a Polygamist? Anne Wilde and her late husband, Ogden Kraut, authored numerous books, including a highly popular 1969 text arguing that Jesus Christ was a polygamist. She suggests that the wedding feast at Cana was actually Christ’s own wedding, and that he was married to at least Mary, Martha, and Mary Magdalene. She also tackles difficult aspects of Doctrine and Covenants Section 132, such as the “Law of Sarah,” which ideally requires a first wife’s consent for subsequent marriages. However, Anne notes that if a first wife adamantly refuses to consent to a priesthood law, the husband is exempt from her approval and can marry anyway. Furthermore, she interprets the scriptural mentions of “concubines” not as sex slaves, but as lesser, non-covenant wives permitted by the customs of the era. Advocacy and the 2002 Olympics After living in secret for decades, Anne stepped into the public eye ahead of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics. Tired of seeing only bitter ex-members defining the narrative around plural marriage, Anne co-founded an advocacy group called “Principle Voices“. During the Olympics, they provided hundreds of press packets and fielded interviews with global media to offer a positive perspective on the lifestyle and to clearly distinguish themselves from the abuses of the FLDS church. Ultimately, Anne's story is a call for understanding. Whether you agree with her lifestyle or not, her experiences provide a rare, inside look at a marginalized community deeply woven into the fabric of Mormon history. Questions to ponder: 1. In what ways do the civil rights struggles of polygamists align with those of the LGBTQ+ community? 2. Why is it important to recognize the structural and cultural differences between various polygamous sects? 3. How does the “Law of Sarah” impact the balance of agency and power within a plural marriage? 4. What role does media representation play in shaping the narrative of marginalized or secretive religious communities? Don't miss our other conversations Shannon: https://gospeltangents.com/people/shannon-flynn Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Check out a transcript of the interview on Amazon.

President Dallin Hoaks has gone on record giving us every reason we need to not trust what he says. In this episode, Radio Free Mormon brings the receipts, showing that the current president of the LDS Church is the kind of guy who will try to get you to believe something, even when he knows… Read More »Dallin Oaks Exposed: RFM: 471

President Dallin Hoaks has gone on record giving us every reason we need to not trust what he says. In this episode, Radio Free Mormon brings the receipts, showing that the current president of the LDS Church is the kind of guy who will try to get you to believe something, even when he knows… Read More »Dallin Oaks Exposed: RFM: 471 The post Dallin Oaks Exposed: RFM: 471 appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

I had the great experience of sitting down with Jeralyn Glass, an internationally acclaimed opera star turned sound healing pioneer and author of Sacred Vibrations. Following the tragic loss of her son, Jeralyn transitioned from the stages of Broadway to the forefront of holistic medicine, discovering how crystalline sound can act as a powerful healing tool for the mind and body. From a scientific perspective, sound healing is rooted in the principles of entrainment and vibro-acoustics. Every organ and cell in the human body vibrates at a specific frequency; when we are stressed or ill, these frequencies can fall out of "tune."  Jeralyn explains how coherent sound waves can physically interact with the nervous system to shift brain states from active Beta waves to restorative Alpha and Theta patterns. This process measurably lowers cortisol, reduces blood pressure, and stimulates the vagus nerve, moving the body out of a "fight or flight" response and into a state of cellular repair. We dive into the science behind Alchemy Crystal Singing Bowls and how specific vibrational frequencies can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, and assist patients ranging from veterans to those in hospice care. Jeralyn—who has shared her expertise on The Kelly Clarkson Show and worked with icons like Jhené Aiko, SZA, Bruce Lipton, Greg Braiden and Kobe Bryant—shares how to treat your own body as a "vibrating instrument." Tune in to learn how to integrate "Music as Medicine" into your daily life through simple humming, movement, and intentional listening. If you listen to the end, in the audio podcast version, not the YouTube one, you will be able to enjoy Jeralyn's amazing voice in five musical pieces (One being a meditation) ————————————————————————————————————— Also, there is a small but important correction I wish to make. Talking about the power of music and how it is often divinely inspired, the story came to my mind of how Naomi Randall composed the beloved hymn, 'I am a child of God.' Thanks to my fashion design focused mind, I instead said it was Naomi Campbell, who is a great model but *not* the composer of this hymn, bless her.  For those who might be interested, here is how the hymn words came to the original Naomi: "That evening, I got down on my knees and prayed aloud, pleading that our Heavenly Father would let me know the right words. Around 2:00 A.M. I awakened and began to think again about the song. Words came to my mind. . . . I immediately got up and began to write the words down as they had come to me. Three verses and a chorus were soon formed. I gratefully surveyed the work, drank of the message of the words, and returned to my bedroom where I knelt before my Father in Heaven to say 'Thank you!'" (Source: https://www.ldsliving.com/the-powerful-stories-behind-i-am-a-child-of-god-i-need-thee-every-hour-3-other-beloved-hymns/s/88514_)  Copyright note: the copyright to "I Am a Child of God" is owned by Intellectual Reserve, Inc., a corporation established by the LDS Church to hold its intellectual property. Intellectual Reserve allows copying or downloading of the music and lyrics of the song for incidental, noncommercial church, or noncommercial home uses.   I also mentioned the Christmas Truce. During the recording, which is not scripted, I could not remember any details about it, as this idea came as we were talking. However, the Christmas Truce recounts the story of German and British soldiers who sung together Silent Night at Christmas. During the editing process, I found a Sainsbury's advert made with the Royal British Legion, which accurately describes how the scene unravelled. I dare you not to cry when you watch it and think of how the power of music brought these brave young men together that week. In some areas, men from both sides ventured into no man's land on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to mingle and exchange food and souvenirs. There were joint burial ceremonies and prisoner swaps, while several meetings ended in carolling. Watch the Sainsbury's advert here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWF2JBb1bvM  I am in no wya affiliated...     Topics Covered Definition of music as medicine, The origins of sound healing, Science of crystalline sound and singing bowls, Vibrational frequencies for mental focus, Music as a prescription for stability, Physical health benefits of sound, journey through grief, Using the human voice as a healing tool, Mindfulness in musical consumption, Highlights from the Source - Be Inspired App, I am a child of God, how music touches the soul, music as connection. Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/fgDyxEFX0Xc   The Source - Be Inspired app is available for download. Sacred Vibrations is now available anywhere you buy books. Affiliate Amazon Book Link: https://amzn.to/4uvoCT1 Jeralyn Glass Website: http://www.jeralynglass.com/ Crystal Cadence Website: http://www.crystalcadence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystalcadencela/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crystalcadencela/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqJQkuTKj6u8ZiUAFGVC3w  

On today's episode of Mormon News, Nemo the Mormon and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with new research identifying seven trends shaping the future of the LDS Church, including changing missionary priorities, evolving member behaviors, and what the data suggests about where Mormonism may be headed.Link:https://religionnews.com/2026/07/16/more-about-jesus-less-about-coffee-seven-lds-church-trends-according-to-data/Next, we examine growing questions about whether the Church's rapid temple-building pace is outstripping its ability to staff those temples, as members continue raising concerns about volunteer shortages.Link:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/wUhf29KocOsWe'll also cover new developments in the Reese Riggin case, including newly released character letters submitted to the court, one of which was written by his LDS bishop, as prosecutors presented additional allegations while arguing he should remain in custody.Links:https://theelectricgf.com/2026/07/08/judge-denies-bail-reduction-for-riggin-based-on-new-allegations/https://www.tiktok.com/@krtvgreatfalls/video/7657320783747878175?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pchttps://floodlit.org/a/b753/We'll also discuss allegations against an AI executive and BYU adjunct professor accused of creating deepfake images of friends and children, and what this case says about the growing risks of AI technology.Link:https://www.ksl.com/article/51600979/ai-chief-technology-officer-accused-of-creating-deepfakes-of-friends-and-childrenWe'll also examine a widely shared faith-promoting miracle story involving Briel Adams-Wheatley and discuss some of the ethical questions surrounding how stories like these are presented and used.Link:https://youtu.be/uZKXCiAarBs?si=vrli_sl3967u1BcfFinally, we wrap up with two stories out of Rexburg Idaho that say a lot about Mormon Culture.Link:https://x.com/RealPlantBrah/status/2073394722219942098?s=20https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19G9xk7nbM/___________________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 LDS Church claims huge growth in membership numbers in Africa. But is this claim true? Or is it manufactured like the baptism numbers claimed for Central and South America back in the 1970s? During Mormonism Live last night, an African named Riya Ngambi called in and spilled the beans on the whole operation, showing… Read More »Mormon Africa Baptism Fraud: RFM: 470

The LDS Church claims huge growth in membership numbers in Africa. But is this claim true? Or is it manufactured like the baptism numbers claimed for Central and South America back in the 1970s? During Mormonism Live last night, an African named Riya Ngambi called in and spilled the beans on the whole operation, showing… Read More »Mormon Africa Baptism Fraud: RFM: 470 The post Mormon Africa Baptism Fraud: RFM: 470 appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

Welcome to LDS Discussions Part 79, where we continue our deep dive into the Book of Abraham, examining one of the most popular apologetic arguments: the claim that Joseph Smith drew on ancient traditions about Abraham rather than translating the surviving papyri.We begin by exploring the history of the Joseph Smith Papyri and the various theroies proposed to explain the Book of Abraham, including why so many copeting models exist. From there, we focus on the “ancient traditions” theory, looking at stories about Abraham preserved in later Jewish, Christian, and Islamic writings and askign whether they actually support Joseph Smith's text.Along the way, we compare the timelines of the Book of Mormon and Book of Abraham translations, disucss the implications of the Church's Gospel Topics Essay, and examine whether Joseph Smith had access to contemporary biblical commentaries such as Adam Clarke's. We then compare the Book of Abraham's narrative --including Abraham's calls, the famine in Chaldea, Terah, Haran, Abraham's age, the attempted sacrifice of Abraham, Egyptian idolatry, human sacrifice in ancient Egypt, and Abraham's knowledge or astronomy --with the historical sources often cited by apologists.This episode evaluates whether these ancient parallels strengthen the Book of Abraham's authenticity --or instead demonstrate that Joseph Smith was drawing from ideas available in his own time.As always, we examine the historical evidence, compare the primary sources, and let the documents speak for themselves.___________________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

For years, Mormon News Roundup was built around cohosts, guests, and collaborations. I shared my platform with dozens—maybe hundreds—of creators from across the Mormon and ex-Mormon worlds. Many of them felt like genuine friends.At least, that's what I thought.In this deeply personal episode, I talk about the reality of online friendships, content creator relationships, and the hard lessons I've learned after years of podcasting and producing nearly 3,000 videos.We discuss:• Why many creator friendships turned out to be surprisingly fragile• The difference between real friendship and professional convenience• One-sided collaborations and platform dynamics• Doxxing attempts, privacy concerns, and threats against my family• The emotional toll of online drama and public controversy• What happened when I announced the LDS Church had taken steps toward litigation• Why I no longer bring regular cohosts onto Mormon News Roundup• How my views on trust, loyalty, and community have changedThis isn't a callout video. I'm not interested in relitigating old conflicts or naming names. Instead, this is an honest reflection on what happens when online relationships collide with real life, and what I've learned about boundaries, privacy, and protecting the people I care about most.Sometimes the hardest lessons come from the people you thought were closest to you.If you've ever experienced friendship, collaboration, betrayal, or disappointment in online communities, I'd be interested to hear your perspective in the comments.#ExMormon #MormonNewsRoundup #Mormonism #Podcasting #ContentCreator #ExMormonCommunity #LDS #OnlineFriendships #YouTubeCreator #FaithJourney #Doxxing #Commentary #PersonalStory #MormonDiscussion #YouTubeDramaPlease consider making a donation by joining our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/MormonNewsRoundup Email: kolob@mormonnewsroundup.org Website: https://mormonnewsroundup.org/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonnewsroundup Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mormon_news_roundup/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093511869924 X: https://twitter.com/NewsMormon New episodes LIVE every Sunday and Monday nights at 9:30PM ESTPlease like and subscribe and hit the notifications bell. Remember remember, no unhallowed hand can stop this podcast from progressing!The Mormon News Roundup is NOT affilated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Shannon Flynn was a former close associate of the notorious Mormon forger and bomber, Mark Hofmann. Recorded before Flynn's 2021 passing, this conversation provides a chilling, up-close look at Hofmann’s methods, his personality, and the desperate unraveling that led to two murders. We’ll get up close and personal and discuss this crazy chapter of Mormon History. https://youtu.be/9QcITtuSxLo Don't miss our other conversations Shannon: https://gospeltangents.com/people/shannon-flynn Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Check out a transcript of the interview on Amazon. Mark Hofmann’s Beginnings The Origins of a Forger (Early Life & Coins): Hofmann's life of deception began long before he forged church documents; he started electroplating fake mint marks onto coins at just 12 years old. Flynn reveals that Mark Hofmann successfully fooled experts for years, though a simple block of dry ice would cause the forged mint marks to flake right off. Fabricating Provenance (The “Oath of a Freeman”): Flynn details the ingenious ways Mark Hofmann established legitimate backstories for his fake documents. For the highly valuable “Oath of a Freeman,” Hofmann slipped a forged copy into a stack of pamphlets at a massive New York bookstore, took it to the register, and obtained a genuine receipt to prove where he “found” it. Mastering the Art of Deception (Forgery Techniques): Mark Hofmann’s historical research and chemical techniques were unprecedented. He would steal blank flyleaves from 19th-century books at the University of Utah and BYU so the paper would pass carbon dating. To age the ink instantly, he placed documents in a fish tank with an old electric train motor, using the ozone (O3) to oxidize the ink. This technique eventually led to his downfall, as the rapid drying caused the ink to crack—a telltale sign investigators later used against him. Beating the Polygraph: Despite murdering two people and fabricating dozens of documents, Mark Hofmann passed a polygraph test with a highly truthful score of +14. Flynn explains that Hofmann had a genius-level IQ of 137 and used intense self-hypnosis and biofeedback—skills he learned from a hypnotist at age 13—to suppress his physical stress responses. Police Coercion and Flynn's Arrest: Flynn was briefly caught up in the investigation and was arrested for possessing an unregistered automatic weapon that actually belonged to Hofmann. Flynn vividly recounts how the police lied to the media about finding a “bomb factory” in his storage unit, which initially made Flynn believe that the police were framing Hofmann for the bombings too. The Murders and Mark Hofmann’s Unraveling: Hofmann operated heavily on a “forgery on demand” basis, constantly producing documents to put out financial fires. The pressure reached a breaking point when a $185,000 bank loan for the nonexistent “McLellin collection” came due. Hofmann built pipe bombs to kill Steve Christensen and Kathy Sheets purely to buy himself time and distract investigators. The third bomb, which injured Hofmann himself, was likely triggered in a moment of desperation as he realized his web of lies had trapped him. Life in Prison & Church Fallout: Flynn visited Mark Hofmann several times in prison during the early 1990s, noting that Hofmann had fully adapted to convict life and still practiced self-hypnosis daily. Flynn also addresses the faith crises many experienced over the Hofmann saga, arguing that it is unreasonable to leave the LDS Church just because its leaders failed to detect the forgeries, pointing out that general authorities “don’t have magic powers.” 00:00 Introduction 01:39 How Shannon Met Mark 02:32 Mark’s Early Forgery Career – Coins 09:07 Shannon’s Work with Mark 11:33 Oath of a Freeman Forgery 16:57 Mark’s Legitimate Collecting & Financial Dealings 20:31 McLellin Collection Scheme & First Interstate Bank Loan 25:12 Mark’s Personality 27:57 Beating the Polygraph 51:49 Shannon’s Arrest & Jail Time 1:02:09 The Bombings – Initial Response 1:32:03 Document Forgery Techniques – Paper & Ink 1:38:04 Advanced Forgery Methods – Oxidation & Cracking 1:23:16 Bombing Motives & Third Bomb 1:11:20 Mark’s Production to Demand Strategy 1:15:45 Impact on LDS Scholarship 1:43:40 Prison Life & Suicide Attempt 1:46:05 Shannon’s Prison Visits & Correspondence 1:57:28 Legal Strategy & Plea Agreement 1:40:03 Parole Hearing & Life Sentence 2:04:30 Closing Thoughts on Church Authority Don't miss our other conversations Shannon: https://gospeltangents.com/people/shannon-flynn Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved

D. Todd Christofferson is one of the most senior leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he has been one of the most recognizable voices in modern LDS leadership.His brother, Wade Christofferson, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Ohio to charges involving coercion and enticement of a m*nor. He now faces the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence.Wade Christofferson had previously been excommunicated from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over CSA allegations, but was later rebaptized and returned to church membership. Reports have raised questions about his subsequent involvement in church settings and what safeguards were in place.This video is a complete supercut of the latest news coverage, commentary, and public reactions surrounding the Wade Christofferson case.The discussion has prompted difficult questions among both faithful Latter-day Saints and former members:• What did church leaders know, and when did they know it?• How were decisions regarding membership and church participation made?• Could more have been done to protect ch*ldren?• How should institutions respond when allegations of ab*se involve members with connections to leadership?This episode examines the reporting, reactions, and ongoing conversation surrounding this case.⚠️ Content note: This video discusses CSA and related legal proceedings.Subscribe to Mormon News Roundup for commentary, analysis, and discussion of news and issues involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.#MormonNewsRoundup #LDSChurch #WadeChristofferson #DarrenChristoffersonPlease consider making a donation by joining our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/MormonNewsRoundup Email: kolob@mormonnewsroundup.org Website: https://mormonnewsroundup.org/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonnewsroundup Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mormon_news_roundup/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093511869924 X: https://twitter.com/NewsMormon New episodes LIVE every Sunday and Monday nights at 9:30PM ESTPlease like and subscribe and hit the notifications bell. Remember remember, no unhallowed hand can stop this podcast from progressing!The Mormon News Roundup is NOT affilated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Thomas Westbrook, creator and host of Holy Koolaid, joins Mormon Stories to share his remarkable journey from growing up in an intensely fundamental Christian environment to becoming one of YouTube's leading voices for skepticism, science, and critical thinking.Raised by missionary parents and immersed in evangelical culture from childhood, Thomas recounts life overseas, homeschooling, Youth With A Mission (YWAM), purity culture, sexual shame, biblical literalism, and the constant pressure to evangelize. He explains how years of indoctrination shaped his worldview –and how education, science and asking difficult questions gradually unraveled it.Thomas discusses the pivotal experiences that led him to leave Christianity, including confronting Young Earth Creationism, discovering contradictions he had never been allowed to examine, and realizing that curiosity was viewed as a threat rather than a virtue. He also reflects on the personal cost of deconstruction, including strained family relationships, fear of hell, and learning to rebuild his identity outside of religion. This conversation also explores: growing up as a missionary kid and “third-culture kid”, sleep paralysis and supernatural beliefs, the role of science, evolution, and critical thinking in deconstruction, why Thomas started Holy Koolaid, exposing pseudoscience, misinformation, and religious grifters, Christian nationalism and religion's role in modern politics, building secular community through the Faithless Forum, and what curiosity, uncertainty, and intellectual honest look like after faith.Whether you're questioning your beliefs, interested in religious deconstruction, or simply fascinated by how people change their minds, this episode offers an honest and thoughtful look at one man's journey from certainly to curiosity. If you enjoy this conversation, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help support more long-form conversations about faith, doubt, and the pursuit of truth.___________________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 Fan MailVideo podcast here:In his recent interview, Jacob Hansen never once quotes from or references the Book of Mormon. It's no wonder—doing so would have forced him to confront the clear differences between what the Book of Mormon actually teaches and what the modern LDS Church teaches today.Instead of relying on the Book of Mormon, he turns to later teachings from Joseph Smith and other church traditions that came after the book was published. This pattern is common among the LDS Church, the RLDS/Community of Christ, and many other Mormon offshoots: they often set aside their original book of scripture in favor of later developments.In this episode, we look at what the Book of Mormon actually says about who Jesus is.We believe the Book of Mormon is the word of God. Its message is centered on Jesus Christ. Far from contradicting the Bible, it beautifully complements and clarifies it. The Book of Mormon powerfully reinforces the core doctrines of mercy, justice, repentance, salvation, and eternal life so they cannot be misunderstood.Above all, it testifies of the atonement of Jesus Christ. It presents Jesus as God Himself who took on flesh, came to earth, and died for our sins. It is a sacred record of the descendants of Joseph—specifically the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh—preserved for our day.The Bible was originally written in Hebrew and Greek before being translated into English. Because of this, many different English versions exist—each the result of careful work by scholars, linguists, and translators. In contrast, the Book of Mormon was translated only once, by the gift and power of God, using divinely prepared instruments. The Lord Himself guided the process, removing human interpretation and choosing words that precisely convey the meaning He wants us to understand.This is an extraordinary gift that helps us clearly know what we need for our salvation and for building a personal relationship with our Creator.purchase RCE Book of Mormon https://bomf.org/shop/ Restored Gospel  - Scripture Search and Study Resources Contact us:restoredgospelpodcast@gmail.comMusic by Michael Barrett

On today's episode of Mormon News, Nemo the Mormon and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with the Church's announcement that more than 88,500 missionaries are now serving worldwide, which leaders say is an all-time record. We'll examine whether today's LDS missionary statistics are truly comparable to previous Church records.Links:Deseret News: https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/07/14/new-record-88500-missionaries-latter-day-saints-why/2014 Statistical Report: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/04/statistical-report-2014Additional Missionary Statistics: https://news-pacific.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-provides-additional-missionary-statisticsWe'll also discuss new research on how lowering the missionary age has affected sister missionaries and their educational outcomes.Link:https://www.abc4.com/news/religion/sister-missionary-age-change-womens-college-success-research/Next, we'll cover new developments involving former LDS bishop Leo Lopshire and former Cache County teacher Patrick Alan Green, including investigators' requests for additional victims to come forward.Links:https://floodlit.org/a/b755/https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/deputies-seek-additional-victims-spartanburg-204433996.htmlhttps://www.hjnews.com/news/local/former-elementary-teacher-arrested-in-cache-county-for-child-sex-crimes/article_5bfc4b0e-d6e5-43e1-9f95-88b7880ed3cc.htmlhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-duncan-a404b3b0/We'll examine BYU's connection to Monster Energy and how attitudes toward energy drinks have changed within Latter-day Saint culture.Show notes can be found on the Mormon Stories blog here: https://www.mormonstories.org/lds-church-claims-record-88500-missionaries/___________________⁠⁠⁠Show Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠At 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

For the first time since its opening in 1993, the San Diego California Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is open to the public. And our team got to take a tour. While most Christians have met members of the LDS Church, many wonder what Mormons actually believe? Pastor Adriel Sanchez reflects on his recent temple visit and compares LDS theology with historic Christianity.  GET YOUR FREE SOLA NEWSPAPER A quarterly print publication featuring articles on theology, the historic creeds and confessions, and reflections for the Christian life, delivered straight to your mailbox. For free. FOLLOW US YouTube | Instagram | X/Twitter | Facebook | Newsletter WHO WE ARE Sola Media serves today's global church by producing resources for reformation grounded in the historic Christian faith. For over thirty-five years, Sola has walked alongside Christians in their faith, pointing away from novelty and ourselves, and toward Christ and his gospel as proclaimed in the Scriptures, articulated in the ancient Christian Creeds, and summarized in the confessions of the Protestant Reformation. Learn more: https://solamedia.org/

Tonight’s Mormon Newscast is packed with major developments affecting the LDS Church, Mormon culture, and the communities surrounding it. Our lead story examines the guilty plea entered by the brother of a sitting LDS apostle, D. Todd Christofferson, in a child sexual abuse case. We also cover: • A Southern Utah active Latter-day Saint, bishopric… Read More »Mormon Apostle’s Brother Pleads Guilty ! The post Mormon Apostle’s Brother Pleads Guilty ! appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

What Can Christians Learn from the Mormon Church?It might seem strange to ask this on a podcast usually dedicated to exposing the doctrinal and historical flaws of Mormonism. But while we remain uncompromising on biblical truth, we have to ask: Are there things the LDS Church simply does better than many Christian churches?Drawing from 27 years of ministry in Utah, pastor and host Bryan breaks down 4 powerful principles that ministry leaders and churchgoers can glean from their Mormon neighbors. From creating a "high bar" culture to relentlessly prioritizing the family, we explore how to elevate our commitment to Christ without falling into the trap of legalism.In this episode, we discuss:The High Bar Culture: Why lowering the bar makes it too easy for people to walk away from the church.Prioritizing the Family: Shifting the spiritual burden from church programs back to the home.Proactive Community Support: Building a structural safety net so no one falls through the cracks.Shared Identity: Overcoming Christian infighting to build a unified front for the gospel.Read the full article and get the group discussion guide at pursueGOD.org: What Can Christians Learn from the Mormon Church?--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--

After years away from the microphone, John Larsen returns to Mormon Stories Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation. A legend in the Mormon and ex-Mormon podcasting world, John Larsen helped shape an entire generation of critical Mormon thought through Mormon Expression. Now, he sits down with John Dehlin to reflect on the journey that brought him here –from his Mormon upbringing and faith crisis to build one of the most influential podcasts in the space, and ultimately stepping away to build a very different kind of life.In this candid interview, John shares what life looks like today: living sustainably, growing much of his own food, working in local government, and creating intentional community. He also opens up about his mission, the questions that led him out of the church, why apologetics never worked for him, his fascination with primary historical sources, and how Mormon Expression came to be. The conversation also explores the rise of Mormon Studies, the challenge of creating content for years on end, community dynamics within the ex-Mormon movement, current events, AI, politics, the future of society, and what it really means to move on after leaving Mormonism. Whether you've followed John Larsen for years or are meeting him for the first time, this episode offers a rare glimpse into one of the most respected voices in the Mormon studies and post-Mormon communities. If you enjoy thoughtful conversations about Mormon history, faith transitions, and building a meaningful life after religion, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode. ___________________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

Are Latter-day Saint women oppressed? What are their roles in the LDS Church? How does it compare to the role of women in Protestant churches? Pastor Jeff discusses with Latter-day Saint influencer, Jasmin Rappleye. Special thanks to Jasmin Rappleye:  Check out her YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@jasminrappshow Check out here podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@InformedSaintsPod Support this effort: https://www.HelloCreative.life Get exclusive access to bonus content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/hellosaints Hello Saints! My name is Jeff McCullough and I'm a Christian Pastor. This channel is devoted to fighting criticism with curiosity as I invite dialogue between mainstream Christians and Latter-day Saints. Are Mormons Christians? What do Evangelicals and Latter-day Saints agree and disagree about? Join me as I compare and contrast the lifestyle, culture and beliefs of Mormons and non-LDS Christians.  #LatterDaySaints #Mormon #ldswomen

Ladies and gentlemen and whoever else is listening, welcome back to the show. CONTENT WARNING - The opinions of the host and our guests have not been sanitized or scientifically tested so please consume at your own risk. What happens when someone raised to believe they have all the answers discovers they're no longer sure of the questions? In this deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation, Cale Strong, shares the story behind one of the most difficult decisions of his life, walking away from the LDS Church only days after entering the Missionary Training Center. While many know his story through his father, Jeff Strong's book Torn: Why People We Love Are Leaving the Church and What We Can Learn from Them, this episode gives Cale the opportunity to tell his own story in his own words. Rather than attacking faith or defending disbelief, Cale explores the emotional, relational, and cultural realities that often accompany faith transitions. He reflects on feeling unheard, the unintended harm that can come from trying to "fix" people, and the difference between loving someone as they are versus seeing them as a project. Together, Brian and Cale discuss family relationships, missionary culture, agency, judgment, belonging, and what genuine Christlike compassion can or should look like, even when people reach very different conclusions. Whether you're firmly rooted in your faith, wrestling with difficult questions, or trying to better understand someone you love, this conversation offers an invitation to replace assumptions with curiosity and fear with empathy. CONTACT CALE Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cale_strong_music/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cale.strong Email - cale.strong@gmail.com JEFF STRONG - TORN BOOK Website - https://www.tornbyjeffstrong.com/ #ParrishTheThoughtPodcast #FaithJourney #FaithTransition #HumanConnection #ChooseCuriosity #LeadWithLove  #LDS #MeaningfulConversations #TornBook #JeffStrong #CaleStrong #LoveThyNeighbor

A few years ago, I criticized Jacob Hansen's fellow Mormon apologist Michelle Stone. But that's not what this video is about.While browsing community clips from Mormon News Roundup, I stumbled across an obscure YouTube channel belonging to a user named "Jacob H 1986." After digging through the uploads, I became convinced the channel belongs to Jacob Hansen of the Thoughtful Faith channel.What followed was an unexpected journey into the past.These videos show a much younger Jacob Hansen long before he became one of Mormonism's most recognizable online defenders. Family gatherings, hunting trips in the Nevada mountains, missionary-era optimism, LDS youth activities, business ventures, and everyday life all combine to create what feels like a fascinating Mormon time capsule.Watching these videos, I didn't see a villain. I saw a young believing Latter-day Saint who reminded me of my own younger self.Unfortunately, that's where our paths diverged.In this video, I discuss Jacob Hansen's defense of Joseph Smith's polygamy, racist LDS teachings, anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, criticism of ex-Mormon women, and support for the LDS Church's vast financial empire. I explore how Mormonism can shape otherwise decent people into defenders of ideas that many modern observers find harmful.I also examine the broader role religious indoctrination plays in perpetuating belief systems across generations and why I continue speaking out against Mormon truth claims.Most importantly, I ask a simple question:What do YOU see when you watch these old videos?Do you see a sincere believer?A future Mormon apologist?Or someone whose life might have looked very different outside the influence of the LDS Church?Watch and let me know your thoughts in the comments.Jacob H's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@hansenjacob1986#Mormonism #JacobHansen #ThoughtfulFaith #ExMormon #LDSChurch #MormonNewsRoundup #JosephSmith #MormonApologetics #ReligiousDeconstruction #PostMormon #MormonStories #Religion #ExLDS #Nevada #MormonDiscussion**Original video discussed:** [https://youtu.be/ATJHUOyZ-rU?is=aEer7j6SUvdqP7uR](https://youtu.be/ATJHUOyZ-rU?is=aEer7j6SUvdqP7uR)

On today's episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with breaking news involving the family of Apostle D. Todd Christofferson. His brother, Wade Christofferson, has pleaded guilty in federal court to sexually abusing minors and sending sexually explicit letters to a young Utah girl. He now faces a potential life sentence in prison. We'll break down the case, the charges, and why this story is making headlines.Next, we take a closer look at Domo founder Josh James, one of Utah's most influential tech CEOs and a featured voice in the documentary An Inconvenient Faith. We'll examine newly released bodycam footage from his DUI arrest and revisit his public defense of Mormonism.We'll also discuss the heartbreaking case of Mitchell and Carrie Murray, an LDS couple who pleaded guilty to child abuse homicide following the death of their toddler. We'll examine the disturbing details released by prosecutors and why this case has shocked so many people across Utah.We'll examine Mitt Romney's comments that people in their 80s should not be running the country or the world, and ask whether that conversation also applies to leadership within high-demand religions like the LDS Church.We'll cover the case of Adam Clark, a former LDS youth Sunday School teacher accused of stealing thousands of dollars from an Eagle Mountain youth sports organization. We'll discuss why trust, reputation, and religious identity can sometimes influence how people evaluate character.We'll also discuss Utah County's new Zoom wedding service, which allows couples to get married online from anywhere in the world. Is Utah becoming the new Las Vegas?Finally, we'll examine growing concerns over Flock license plate cameras near BYU. We'll discuss the university's use of automated surveillance technology, why some students and former members are raising privacy concerns, and what this debate reveals about safety, trust, and institutional oversight.Join us live as we provide context behind the headlines, separate fact from speculation, and discuss what these stories reveal about Mormonism today.___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt 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

Why was Joseph Smith killed? What new doctrines did Joseph Smith teach in his final year? Why did Joseph Smith run for President of the United States in 1844? What was the Nauvoo Expositor newspaper? Why was it destroyed? Step into one of the final chapter of Joseph Smiths life and the intrigue and controversy surrounding this American Prophet. #JosephSmith #LDSHistory #MormonHistory #Restoration #AmericanHistory #MiniDocumentaryKeywords: Joseph Smith, Joseph Smith history, founder of Mormonism, Mormon history, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, LDS Church origins, gold plates, angel Moroni, seer stone, treasure digging, polygamy, Nauvoo, martyrdom of Joseph Smith, Carthage JailOur LinksWebsite: http://thoughtfulfaith.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtful.faithTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thoughtful.faithPodcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1478749DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this video are entirely the opinion of the creator and do not necessarily reflect any officially endorsed positions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints or channel sponsors.

What happens when one spouse loses their faith while the other is serving as an Elder's Quorum President? In this episode of Mormon Stories, Devlyn and Randy Day share their remarkable journey through one of the most difficult challenges a Mormon marriage can face: a mixed-faith relationship.Raised in a deeply faithful Latter-day homes, they built what they believed was the ideal Mormon family. But after Devlyn began studying Church history–including Rough Stone Rolling, the Gospel Topics Essays, and the CES Letter–her testimony unraveled. Terrified of losing her marriage, she struggled for years with guilt, shame, postpartum depression, and the fear of disappointing everyone she loved. Meanwhile, Randy remained a devoted believer. He served as an Elder's Quorum President, met regularly with bishops, prayed endlessly for his wife to return, and wrestled with the heartbreaking belief that his eternal family might be slipping away. Rather than ending in divorce, their story became one of patience, empathy, therapy, and unconditional love. Together they discuss growing up in Mormon culture, temple experiences, the November 2015 policy, church history, navigating depression, serving in callings and the impact those callings had on their family. Whether you're experiencing a faith crisis yourself, supporting a believing spouse, or trying to understand the challenges of a mixed-faith marriage, we hope this conversation brings hope, compassion, and understanding.If this episode was meaningful to you, please consider subscribing, leaving a comment, and sharing it with someone who may need to hear this story. ___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt 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

How did the early Latter-day Saints navigate one of the most difficult and divisive issues in American history—slavery? In this episode of Church History Matters, hosts Casey Griffiths and Scott Woodward are joined by historian and author Paul Reeve for an in-depth discussion on slavery, race, and the Latter-day Saint experience in nineteenth-century America. Together, they explore the broader history of slavery in the United States, the political tensions that surrounded westward expansion, and how these national debates influenced the Utah Territory. What were the views of early Church leaders regarding slavery? Why did slavery exist in Utah Territory, and how did it differ from slavery in the American South? How did questions surrounding slavery affect Utah's relationship with the federal government and its long road to statehood? Drawing on historical documents and recent scholarship, Paul Reeve helps unpack the complex realities of race, slavery, territorial politics, and religion in the nineteenth century. The conversation examines the legal status of slavery in Utah, the experiences of enslaved individuals in the territory, and the ways national conflicts over slavery shaped perceptions of the Latter-day Saints during the years leading up to the Civil War and beyond.

What do you do when your personal conscience clashes with official LDS Church positions? Why did the LDS Church transition from the fiery, anti-communist speeches of Ezra Taft Benson in the 1960s to the strict political neutrality we see today? https://youtu.be/cDExXX00Y0o Oman is the author of 2 volumes of Law and the Restoration Volume 1 and Volume 2, from Greg Kofford Books. Don't miss our other conversations Nathan: https://gospeltangents.com/people/nathan-oman Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved In this episode of Gospel Tangents, I sat down with Nathan Oman, law professor and author of Law and the Restoration, to explore the fascinating evolution of Mormon political theology and the realities of modern Church discipline. We dive into the Church’s shift toward “quietism”—a strategy of withdrawing from global political conflict to focus on personal righteousness and international missionary work. Discover why praise for the U.S. Constitution has largely vanished from General Conference, replaced by an emphasis on the 12th Article of Faith and being an unthreatening, law-abiding citizen in international environments. Personal Conscience The conversation also tackles the complex tension between personal conscience and institutional authority. Oman explains the “epistemic advantage” of church doctrine and shares practical, ethical advice on how faithful members can navigate deep personal disagreements with the Church without undermining its global mission. Finally, we pull back the curtain on LDS Church discipline. While liberal intellectuals and internet critics dominate the media headlines, Oman reveals a surprising historical truth: the modern concept of apostasy was primarily developed for, and is overwhelmingly used against, polygamist fundamentalists. In this video, we cover: The legacy of Ezra Taft Benson’s Cold War apocalypticism. Why the Church avoids taking stances on hot-button political issues like immigration. The “epistemic advantage” of obedience and trusting Church doctrine. How to ethically handle personal disagreements with Church leaders without being insubordinate. The truth about who actually gets excommunicated for apostasy.

Welcome to another episode of LDS Discussions! We are joined again by Bryan Buchanan to discuss the William Clayton Diaries.The William Clayton Diaries are among the most important firsthand records from Joseph Smith's final years in Nauvoo. Few individuals stood closer to Joseph Smith than William Clayton, who served as clerk, confidant, and participant in many of the most controversial events of Mormon history. In this episode, we dive directly into the diaries themselves. We examine what Clayton recorded, what historians can learn from his daily entries, and why these journals have become central to discussions about Joseph Smith's plural marriages, the Council of Fifty, the Quorum of the Anointed, the Kinderhook Plates, Nauvoo politics, and the final months leading up to Joseph Smith's death. Along the way, we explore the lives of Joseph and Emma Smith, Margaret Moon, Sarah Whitney, Lucy Walker, Flora Woodworth, Eliza R. Snow, and many of the other figures who appear throughout these remarkable journals. We also address modern claims that the diaries were altered, fabricated, or created after the fact, and compare those claims to the evidence available to historians who have studied the original manuscript. Topics include William Clayton's relationship with Joseph Smith, evidence for Joseph Smith's polygamy, Emma's reactions and resistance to the “P” or “priesthood,” the Moon sister's involvement in polygamy, the strengths and limitations of Clayton as a source and why historians consider these diaries indispensable. The William Clayton journals offer an unparalleled window into the inner workings of Nauvoo Mormonism. Whether you are a believer, skeptic, historian, or simply curious about early Mormon history, these records provide some of the most revealing evidence available from the period. ___________________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

Jeff Strong was devastated when his son left the LDS Church. It was a familial rupture that led him to ask difficult questions about the experience of being Mormon today.

What case helped end polygamy in the LDS Church? What do a 19th-century Mormon polygamist, reality TV star Kody Brown, and the Native American religious use of peyote all have in common? https://youtu.be/r32GTYt0N5g Don't miss our other conversations Nathan: https://gospeltangents.com/people/nathan-oman Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved How Did LDS Church end polygamy? In this fascinating episode of Gospel Tangents, host Rick Bennett sits down with Nathan Oman, law professor and author of Law and the Restoration, to unpack one of the most consequential Supreme Court cases in American history: the 1879 Reynolds v. United States decision. Oman is the author of 2 volumes of Law and the Restoration Volume 1 and Volume 2, from Greg Kofford Books. We explore how this landmark ruling was the “big bang” that launched the federal government’s legal crusade against the Latter-day Saints, systematically crushing their legal options and ultimately forcing the 1890 Manifesto that ended plural marriage. But the impact of Reynolds didn’t stop in Utah! Discover the shocking history of how the Reynolds decision was later used during the Spanish-American War to legally justify American imperialism, denying full constitutional rights to “conquered” peoples in the Philippines and Puerto Rico by comparing them to “barbaric” polygamist Mormons. We also jump forward in time to discuss Sister Wives star Kody Brown’s famous lawsuit. Find out why his lower-court victory decriminalizing polygamy was thrown out by the 10th Circuit Court, and why modern prosecutors deliberately avoid bringing pure polygamy charges today just to keep the Supreme Court from having to officially answer if polygamy is actually unconstitutional. Finally, we dive into the unexpected crossover between Mormon polygamy and the Native American Church’s sacramental use of peyote. In this video, we cover: The 1879 Reynolds v. United States test case and its impact on the First Amendment. How the federal legal crusade forced the LDS Church to issue the 1890 Manifesto. How Mormon polygamy was used to justify denying constitutional rights in Puerto Rico and the Philippines. Why Kody Brown’s legal victory to decriminalize polygamy was vacated. Why the modern Supreme Court secretly avoids ruling on the constitutionality of polygamy. The surprising link between the Reynolds decision and the 1990 peyote Supreme Court case written by Justice Antonin Scalia

Welcome to another episode of LDS Discussions! Today we are joined by Brian Buchanan to discuss the William Clayton Diaries.For decades, the William Clayton Diaries have occupied a near-mythical place in Mormon history. Hidden away in the First Presidency vault, copied in secret, fought over in court, leaked to researchers, and cited in some of the most controversial debates surrounding Joseph Smith and plural marriage, these journals have one of the most fascinating histories of any historical document in the Latter-day Saint tradition. In this episode, we trace the remarkable journey of William Clatyon's Nauvoo journals from the 1840s to the present day. We explore how historians such as James Allen, Dean Jessee, Leonard Arrington, Thomas Alexander, Andrew Ehat, Scott Faulring, and others gained access to these records, why the Church restricted them for so many years, and how copies eventually found their way into the hands of independent researchers and critics. We also examine the legal battle surrounding the journals, the role of Jerald and Sandra Tanner in publishing portions of them, the impact of the Mark Hofmann era, and the ongoing debates over access, transparency, and historical scholarship within Mormonism. With Yale University Press preparing the first complete scholarly edition of the William Clayton Diaries, this is the perfect time to revisit one of the most important archival stories in Mormon history. We discuss the discovery and preservation of Clayton's journals, the First Presidency vault and restricted documents, specific transcripts that were created for the Clayton diaries, how those transcriptions leaked out into the public and the lawsuit on these leaked transcripts. We also lightly discuss the recent news that additional parts of Clayton's diaries have been released to the public and the debate around whether Joseph Smith was actually a polygamist. Whether you're interested in Mormon history, archival controversies, historiography, or the debate over Joseph Smith's polygamy, this episode provides the essential backstory behind one of the most important historical sources from Nauvoo. Be sure to join us for the next episode where we share some of the most controversial and exciting entries from William Clayton's journals!___________________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

" But it has come to the point where I know who God is, and I know what He feels like, and I know that I feel Him in the places that I go regarding the church. I know that what I have found is true because of that, and I will continue to have questions the rest of my life, and that's okay."00:00 Faith Questions Begin00:40 Foundation Updates Overview04:45 Come Back To Christ Event07:04 Meet Sam And Her Background09:01 Doubts Addiction And Turning Point23:02 Mission Temptations28:51 Studying Hard Questions32:32 Faith Amid Social MediaServe Clothing code COMEBACK for 15% offhttps://serveclothing.com/If you have a story to share please submit here: https://comebackpodcast.org/submissions/For inquiries contact info.comebackpodcast@gmail.comCome Back Team:Director, Founder, & Host: Ashly StoneEditor: Cara ReedOutreach Manager: Jenna CarlsonAssistant Editor: Britt SmallzeArt Director: Jeremy GarciaProduction Director: Trent Wardwell

Send us Fan MailVideo Podcast In his interview, Jacob Hansen never once quotes from or references the Book of Mormon. It's no wonder—he would have had to confront the clear differences between what the Book of Mormon actually teaches and what the modern LDS Church teaches today.Rather than relying on the Book of Mormon, he turns to later teachings from Joseph Smith and other church traditions that came after it was published. This pattern is common: the LDS Church, the RLDS/Community of Christ, and many other Mormon offshoots often set aside their original book of scripture in favor of later developments.We believe the Book of Mormon is the word of God. Its message is centered on Jesus Christ. It does not contradict the Bible—in fact, it beautifully complements and clarifies it. The Book of Mormon powerfully reinforces the core doctrines of mercy, justice, repentance, salvation, and eternal life so they cannot be misunderstood.Above all, it testifies of the atonement of Jesus Christ. It presents Jesus as God Himself who took on flesh, came to earth, and died for our sins. It is a sacred record of the descendants of Joseph—specifically the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh—preserved for our day.The Bible was originally written in languages such as Hebrew and Greek before being translated into English. Because of this, many different English versions exist. Each translation is the result of careful work by scholars, linguists, and translators who select the words they believe best convey the original meaning. In contrast, the Book of Mormon was translated only once—by the gift and power of God. Using divinely prepared instruments. The Lord Himself guided the process, removing human interpretation and choosing words that precisely express the meaning He wants us to understand. Translated one time by the gift and power of God!!  This is an extraordinary gift that helps us clearly know what we need for our salvation and for building a personal relationship with our Creator. Restored Gospel  - Scripture Search and Study Resources Contact us:restoredgospelpodcast@gmail.comMusic by Michael Barrett

On today's episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.This week we take a closer look at the 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders, where Church leaders doubled down on claims of exclusive authority, the "only true church," and what they describe as "true doctrine." We'll discuss what was taught and why it matters.Links:https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14idTXmfqam/https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders/2026/06/18/read-summaries-photos-2026-seminar-new-mission-leaders/https://youtu.be/FIKqJVU63Pk?si=d3bNWHUMYK8Uc2APhttps://youtu.be/bshDxxlcMu0?si=COTdwPlTv6l87PYOWe'll also cover the disturbing allegations against an Orem dentist accused of abusing a high school intern, along with his connections to the LDS community.Links:https://www.ksl.com/article/51540804/orem-dentist-accused-of-abusing-high-school-internhttp://www.youtube.com/@r.brucehowell2847Next a discussion about bishop interviews, trust, and boundaries after the Church's official Young Women Worldwide page encouraged girls ages 12 to 17 to participate in a "How Well Do You Know Your Bishop?" activity designed to help them feel more comfortable with their bishop. We'll examine why some are raising concerns about normalizing close relationships between young girls and adult male ecclesiastical leaders, particularly in light of one-on-one worthiness interviews and the growing number of bishops listed in the Floodlit database.Links:https://www.instagram.com/p/DZdSd4mifYC/https://floodlit.org/lpe/ever-bishop/We'll also discuss reports that the temple naming system has changed and what could be behind the change.Link:https://www.reddit.com/r/exmormon/s/BHjrL95u1eWe'll examine the case of an Orem man accused of stealing two valuable Minerva Teichert paintings from his elderly mother, replacing them with copies, and selling the originals to help finance a new restaurant.Link:https://www.fox13now.com/news/fox-13-investigates/man-accused-of-stealing-paintings-by-famous-utah-artist-replacing-them-with-copiesFinally, we'll discuss BYU-Idaho's new ecclesiastical endorsement policy, which changes what happens when students allow their endorsements to expire, and what that says about accountability and institutional oversight.Links:https://byuiscroll.org/changes-to-ecclesiastical-endorsement-process-are-coming-to-byui/https://web.byui.edu/policylibrary/policy/bf4987db-aa02-4437-be12-54fc93eeb185Join us live as we provide context behind the headlines, separate fact from speculation, and discuss what these stories reveal about Mormonism today.___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt 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

For years, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were taught that violations of the law of chastity were “next to murder” in seriousness. Recently, Jasmin Rappleye defended that teaching (and maybe changed its interpretation) in a viral video, sparking widespread discussion both inside and otuside Mormonism.In this somehat impromptu epsiode in our LDS Discussiones series, we will examine the historical record and ask an important question: Has this doctrine actually been taught by LDS leaders?Using General Conference addresses, First Presidency messages, Journal of Discourse sermons, and passages from Spencer W. Kimball's The Miracle of Forgiveness, we trace more than a century of statements who repeatedly taught that sexual sin was second only to murder in seriousness.Was this merely cultural rhetoric? A misunderstanding of scripture? Or was it a consistent teaching passed from one generation of church leaders to the next?Join us as we examine the sources, read the original quotations, explore the history behind one of Mormonism's most controversial teachings, and even share some of the reactions to Jasmin's new video!___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt 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

In this episode, Chris Powers sits down with Chris Koerner, a serial entrepreneur and host of The Koerner Office - one of the fastest-growing business podcasts in the world. Koerner has gone all-in on media: 1.4M on Instagram, a 270k newsletter, and a YouTube channel he grew to 600k subscribers in a year. They get into how he cracked short-form, why he thinks attention is the only moat left once AI makes any business easy to build, and the filters he uses to decide what's actually worth starting. Then they go somewhere completely different - they talk in great detail about his experience as a missionary for the LDS Church. Koerner spent two years in Hungary, knocked on roughly 25,000 doors as a self-described introvert, and discusses the skills it taught him that made him a better businessman. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro (01:08) From Mobile Home Parks Tweeter to Business Media Juggernaut (09:38) Why Audio Builds More Loyal Followers Than Anything Else (12:21) Facebook's Hidden Creator Payouts — and Getting Shut Down Overnight (17:11) The Two-Pizza Company: Building a Lean Content Machine (23:36) From Impulse to Publication: How Content Moves Through the Factory (28:13) The YouTube Split That Unlocked the Algorithm (33:52) The Real Mission: Inspiring Strangers to Start a Business (37:37) Why People Don't Act Until They Hit Rock Bottom (40:03) Selling Religion Door to Door: The LDS Mission in Hungary (50:01) 25,000 Doors, 11 Baptisms: What Mass Rejection Really Teaches (56:53) Homecoming: The Most Depressing Day of His (1:06:53) Violence and Death in the Missionary Life Find our sponsors: Collateral Partners - https://collateral.com/fort Relay Human Cloud - https://www.relayhumancloud.com/powers/ Chris on Social Media: X: https://x.com/fortworthchris Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepowerspodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispowersjr/ Visit our website: https://www.powerspod.com/ Leave a review on Apple: https://bit.ly/45crFD0 Leave a review on Spotify: https://bit.ly/3Krl9jO

What happens when a trusted Mormon leader learns about child sexual abuse –and choses not to report it? In this powerful and heartbreaking episode, Rebecca Gooden and her son Matthew share their family's story of abuse, betrayal, and institutional failure within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Years after discovering that her husband, Shawn Gooden, had sexually abused two of her younger brothers, Rebecca found herself confronting a devastating reality: church leaders had known about the abuse and failed to act. Despite allegations involving child sexual abuse, Shawn continued to receive leadership callings, serving in bishoprics, high councils, and eventually as a bishop and stake presidency counselor. The story becomes even more troubling when Pennsylvania Stake President Rhett Hintze learned of the abuse in 2020. As a mandatory reporter under Pennsylvania law, Hintze was later charged with failure to report child abuse. Although the charges were ultimately dropped, many questions remain about how church leaders handled the case, why victims received little to no support, and why Hintze was later promoted to an Area Seventy. Throughout this interview Rebecca and Matthew discuss Shawn Gooden's abuse and eventual excommunication, the impact of abuse on victims and families, mandatory reporting laws and clergy responsibilities, how the Church handles abuse allegations, the doctrine of discernment, and institutional cover-ups. They also discuss why they ultimately stepped away from the Mormon church and Rebecca shares how she has now moved closer to healing, self-discovering (now calling herself Eloise), and greater empowerment. This episode explores difficult but important questions about accountability, victim protection, and whether religious institutions truly prioritize the vulnerable when abuse is reported. If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, we encourage you to contact local authorities, licensed therapists, and survivor support organizations. ___________________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 week on Mormon Stories News, we take a closer look at the people, controversies, and events making waves across Mormonism.We begin with the story of a disturbing abuse case involving a former LDS Priest Quorum Specialist accused of sexually abusing his nephew. The case has prompted conversations about trust, access to youth, safeguarding policies, and whether church members are adequately trained to recognize and prevent abuse within families and congregations.We also examine a rare public apology from General Authority Seventy Kyle McKay. McKay recently acknowledged that previous statements he made regarding Church history were offensive and offered a correction. We discuss what was said and why the apology matters.Can AI replace God? That's the question Elder Gerrit W. Gong recently addressed in a viral Church-produced video. We break down his comments, the Church's growing concern over artificial intelligence, and whether AI is becoming a competing source of information, guidance, and authority for members navigating faith questions.Next, we turn to the appointment of Jay Jorgensen to the Utah Supreme Court. Jorgensen's nomination has sparked discussion because of his employment with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his statements regarding whether he would recuse himself from Church-related cases. We examine the concerns surrounding judicial independence, conflicts of interest, and public confidence in the courts.We dive into the growing controversy surrounding Jeff Strong's book Torn. Strong's work has generated significant discussion among Latter-day Saints by examining why many members become disaffected or leave the Church. Recent responses from prominent LDS commentators argue that Strong's research methodology is flawed and that he misrepresents faithful members' experiences.We finish with a brief snippet from Rebecca Bibliotecca about the ongoing temple drama in Fairview Texas. What are your thoughts on this week's stories? Join the conversation in the comments.___________________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

In a recent episode on the YouTube channel Hello Saints, Jeff McCullough interviewed Jasmin Rappleye (who got her degree from BYU in Ancient Near Eastern Studies) about one of Mormonism's most controversial scriptures: the Book of Mormon. During the discussion, several apologetic approaches to the Book of Abraham was presented. In this episode, we examine three of the most common theories used to defend Joseph Smith's translation:-The Missing Scroll Theory-The Long Scroll Theory-The Catalyst TheoryDrawing heavily from Dan Vogel's groundbreaking book Book of Abraham Apologetics, we carefully review the historical evidence surrounding these claims, including the eyewitness accounts frequently cited by defenders of the Long Scroll Theory. Do these accounts actually support the evidence of a lengthy missing papyrus containing the Book of Abraham? Or have they been selectively interpreted to fit a predetermined conclusion? Along the way, we examine the work of prominent Egyptologists, discuss the relationship between Joseph Smith's translation claims and the surviving papyri, and explore why even faithful scholars have increasingly moved away from defending the Book of Abraham as a literal translation of the existing Egyptian texts. Join Kolby, Nemo, and Julia as they work through the evidence, compare competing apologetic arguments, and ask what explanation best fits the historical record.In our next episode, we'll examine a fourth and increasingly popular theory: that the Book of Abraham preserves authentic ancient Jewish traditions about Abraham and may contain an ancient core despite not being a direct translation of the surviving papyri. ___________________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

What happens when the son of a Pentecostal megachurch pastor decides to become Mormon?In this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we sit down with Lance Kennedy to discuss his unique religious journey from evangelical Christianity to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Raised in Texas as the son of a prominent pastor, Lance grew up behind the scenes of one of the fastest-growing church movements in America, watching firsthand as churches evolved from small congregations into large-scale organizations.Drawing from that experience, Lance offers a fascinating perspective on Mormonism as both an insider and an outsider. He shares what initially attracted him to the LDS Church, why Mormonism felt like a better fit than the religious tradition he was raised in, and how his background shaped the way he approached questions of belief, culture, and church growth.Throughout the conversation, we explore the similarities and differences between evangelical Christianity and Mormonism, the challenges facing the modern LDS Church, and the tension between preserving a distinct religious identity and adapting to a changing world. Lance also discusses his experiences as a branch president in rural Texas, his thoughts on church history and transparency, and why he remains an active member despite his willingness to publicly discuss difficult issues.___________________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

Sen Lee of Utah took exception with the Pentagon's labelling. NYT announces a new era of gene editing. John talks to Professor Robbie George about Fidelity Month. HelloFresh promotes perversion, A YouTuber is criticized for aborting a preborn baby diagnosed with Down Syndrome, but Bethany Christian Services makes a welcome change.     Segment 1 – Are Mormons Christian? Gene Editing is Back  Breakpoint article  NY Times article on gene editing  Andrew Walker article  Segment 2 – Fidelity Month  Fidelity Month website  Segment 3 – YouTuber Kills Preborn Baby after Down Syndrome Diagnosis  YouTuber article  Spectator Hello Fresh article  Bethany Christian Services statement  Resolve Conflict and Find Peace and Hope with Adult Children: Strategies and Conversations That Work by Kathy Koch       

This week on Mormon Stories News, John Dehlin along with Julia, and Brooklyn of the OSF team, break down some of the biggest stories making headlines in Mormonism.President Nelson announced the Springfield, Missouri temple on April 2, 2023, yet ground was just broken for it on June 6, 2026. Why the delay? Have other temples been delayed? What is the average amount of time for a temple to be finished between its first announcement to dedication? What are the membership numbers that will fill these temples?On June 7, 2026 General Authority Seventy Kyle S. McKay spoke at a Stake Conference in Yukon, Oklahoma. Shortly after the video was posted, however, Mormon church leaders quickly removed it. Join us as we go over the most controversial parts of his talk!June has been dubbed “Fidelity Month” by Governor Cox. Cox did not announce the declaration with a news release, nor did he post it on social media as he has done at the beginning of June in the past years. But does Utah WANT this change? Is Cox trying to replace Pride Month?On June 4th the Department of Defense made some changes to the recognized list of religions. The list included several “Christian” denominations such as Lutheran, Jehovah's Witnesses, Methodists, etc. However, The LDS Church was not listed among the “Christian” denominations.On June 6th Edward Smart, the father of well-known Elizabeth Smart, shared a public Instagram Post about his current status with the LDS Church. The LDS Church is making changes to the Sacrament Meeting rooms! This story first broke with Rebecca Bibliotheca of Mormonish Podcast who shared that architectural plans for two LDS meeting house remodels reveal that the sacrament altar is now to be placed front and center under the pulpit. The plans will be in place by 2028 and this will be the new structure going forward. In 2026, BYU Football player Parker Kingston was charged with first-degree felony rape in Utah. The incident was reported by a 20-year-old woman in February 2025. Kingston has pleaded not guilty and the case is proceeding through the Utah court system. News has been released concerning the request for a new judge for the case.An invested citizen was able to attend a Utah City Council Meeting in which someone shared their concerns about the American Fork Police department in their handling of Reckless Ben (previously covered on Mormon Stories). This insider video gives a closer look at the concerned citizens of American Fork.The Great Salt Lake is in critical condition with historically low water levels due to long-term drought and heavy water diversion for agriculture and urban use. These changes threaten key ecosystems and create toxic dust storms that impact air quality across the Wasatch Front. Governor Cox said he discussed with President Trump a potential federal funding around $1 billion.___________________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