Podcasts about lds church

There are stunning new developments in the Wade Christofferson case, a story shaking Mormonism from the inside out. A federal complaint, coded messages to a child, a secret attic space, and a connection to one of the highest-ranking leaders in the LDS Church… this update is darker, more disturbing, and more revealing than previously reported.… Read More »SHOCKING New Details on Mormon Apostle’s Brother !!! The post SHOCKING New Details on Mormon Apostle’s Brother !!! appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

In this episode (Part 24), we dive into one of the most dramatic and painful chapters in early Letter-day Saint history: Liberty Jail. Joseph Smith was arrested on December 1, 1838 and eventually taken to Liberty Jail. Today we will cover his imprisonment, the chaotic legal proceedings that followed, and the eventual “escape” that allowed him to reunite with his family as the Saints resettled in Quincy, Illinois. We explore how internal conflicts, political pressures, treason charges, and widespread anti-Mormon hostility shaped Joseph's experience –and how his letters from Liberty Jail become some of the most cherished passages in Latter-day Saint scripture. We discuss betrayal, leadership crises, the brutality of Missouri's expulsion, and the Saints' struggle to survive amidst violence, sickness, and dislocation. This chapter also raises hard questions:Was Joseph Smith's trial fair?What role did dissenting church leaders play?How much of the Liberty Jail narrative has been “whitewashed”?What does Joseph Smith's behavior tell us about his character?We conclude by following Joseph's escape, his emotionally charged reunion with the Saints in Illinois, and the lasting trauma and financial strain the Missouri experience left behind. This is an episode you won't want to miss! Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

Send us a Positive Review!In today's BONUS EPISODE Val breaks down some ideas around why the LDS Church is uniquely vulnerable to the underreporting of child sex abuse.  While some of its issues will be vulnerabilities of all patriarchal systems, there are others that might be unique to the LDS church due to its history, doctrine, practices, and culture.  Listen in as Val walks through her own process of understanding this devastating phenomenon in hopes to evoke more dialogue, heightens awareness and brings about systemic reform in the long run.  In the end, looking that this phenomenon will serve the best interests of all parties involved, so please share this episode far and wide.  Resources Referenced in this episodeFrom the Latter Day Struggles Podcast:Patriarchy, Power and Gender Roles Resource CatalogEpisode 35, 36, 45, 986 Part Series - The Shocking Correlation Between Men Socialized in Patriarchies & Psychological/Spiritual Underdevelopment beginning on Episode 28310 Part Series - In-depth Exploration of Patriarchy and its Correlation to Violence & Abuse beginning on Episode 333 Other Resources:Year of Polygamy- Episode 197 Polygamy, Mormonism, and Child AbuseThe Dialogue Journal- Confronting Men's Violence Against Women and Girls in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by Suzanne E. GrecoSupport the showSupport the show Listen, Share, Rate & Review EPISODES Friday Episodes Annual Access $89 Friday Episodes Monthly Access $10 Valerie's Support & Processing Groups Gift a Scholarship Download Free Resources Visit our Website

Over several decades, the LDS Church produced a series of books each year from their first 16 presidents. These were leather-bound and had gilded pages. They were given to church employees with a card explaining they were given by the First Presidency. We think this is about as “official” as it gets. Today MRM's Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson look take a three-part look at the book honoring Gordon B. Hinckley.

Over several decades, the LDS Church produced a series of books each year from their first 16 presidents. These were leather-bound and had gilded pages. They were given to church employees with a card explaining they were given by the First Presidency. We think this is about as “official” as it gets. Today MRM's Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson look take a three-part look at the book honoring Gordon B. Hinckley.

Fred Collier is one of the patriarchs of Ross LeBaron’s Church of the Firstborn. Fred tried to take over after Ross’s death and even converted Tom Green, an apostle in a rival group, “The Branch.” We’ll discuss more about how Fred’s group descends from Ross LeBaron. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/nTOU2ZYkNco Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission While the core authority of the Utah-based Church of the Firstborn traced back through Ross Wesley LeBaron's unique patriarchal lineage derived from Benjamin F. Johnson, the movement’s doctrines and missionary success were significantly shaped by one influential follower: Fred Collier. Collier, who converted to fundamentalism in 1970, was described not as a professional historian but as a “self-trained historian” who dedicated his efforts to researching early Mormon history, ultimately providing the historical bedrock for Ross LeBaron’s claims. The Partnership: History, Mysteries, and the Patriarchal Order Collier joined a core group of “historian followers” drawn to Ross LeBaron because they felt there was something “solid to his claims.” Ross's ministry focused less on concentrating authority (like other fundamentalist groups) and more on disseminating a “patriarchal order of priesthood.” Ross liked to “delve into the mysteries.” This included embracing doctrines like plural marriage and the Adam-God doctrine. Collier expanded on these ideas, even writing a lengthy paper, The Adam God Doctrine in the Bible, attempting to find support for the concept in both the Old and New Testaments. Collier used his historical skills not just for study but for effective missionary work. He was instrumental in helping the Church of the Firstborn articulate its beliefs and authority, serving as a contrast to Ross’s own unorthodox methods: Eccentric Ministry: Ross spent over 20 years on radio shows like KSXX, where he would “clown around” or be controversial and “silly” to attract attention before sharing his message, mirroring unusual methods sometimes used by Old Testament prophets. Historical Converts: Ross’s eccentric style generally did not attract serious religious followers. Collier, however, converted “quite a number of people” by gathering copious historical research and sharing it. Collier also gained notoriety in historical circles for publishing works like Unpublished Revelations, which was valued because it stuck strictly to historical facts without conflating them with fundamentalist folklore or bias. Restoration of the Law of Adoption One of Collier's most significant historical discoveries that shaped the Church of the Firstborn was the concept of the Law of Adoption. Collier found the principle, common during the early Nauvoo/Utah pioneer periods (where men and families would be “sealed to men” in father-son relationships to establish a celestial family structure on Earth), through the published diaries of John D. Lee. When Collier presented this to Ross, Ross embraced it fully. Thereafter, the Law of Adoption became a core aspect of the Church of the Firstborn's structure, requiring anyone receiving patriarchal priesthood to enter into adoption covenants. The LeBaron-ites were likely the first fundamentalists to practice adoption since Wilford Woodruff officially discontinued it in the LDS Church in 1894. Schism Over Celestial Love The partnership between Ross (the innovative prophet) and Collier (the systematizing historian/writer) eventually fractured over a crucial doctrinal difference in 1983. Collier had received a vision which convinced him that the essential principle distinguishing a celestial person was “celestial love”—a selfless love for others and a “total commitment” characterized by losing oneself in service. Collier believed that the lower terrestrial kingdom was populated by people who were honorable but were motivated by seeking their “own reward and aggrandizement.” Collier wanted Ross to adopt this principle of selfless love, believing that the movement under Ross felt too loose and individualistic. However, Ross disagreed vehemently, holding the perspective that competition was a big driving force of the universe. In the ensuing debate, Ross allegedly stated that Christ died for his “own glory” for his own exaltation, which Collier felt was blasphemy against the Atonement. Less than a month later, Ross changed his priesthood teachings entirely, leading Collier to conclude that Ross had fallen into doctrinal apostasy. Fred Collier’s Enduring Legacy Collier separated from Ross, going on to lead his own group (which peaked at several hundred followers in 1992.) Although Ross had never formally appointed a successor, he acknowledged that Collier was the most likely candidate, having “done more to build up our system and the work than anyone else.” Collier continued his work as a prolific author, writing numerous pamphlets and books. His historical research, focusing on early temple doctrine, priesthood, and the Adam-God doctrine, has since “permeated fundamentalism,” with followers of different groups utilizing his historical scholarship. Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

Over several decades, the LDS Church produced a series of books each year from their first 16 presidents. These were leather-bound and had gilded pages. They were given to church employees with a card explaining they were given by the First Presidency. We think this is about as “official” as it gets. Today MRM's Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson look take a three-part look at the book honoring Gordon B. Hinckley.

Welcome to another episode of our LDS Discussions series! In this episode, we take a detailed, evidence-based look at one of the most repeated claims in Latter-day Saint apologetics: that Joseph Smith was incapable of producing a well-written text –and therefore could not have authored the Book of Mormon.Drawing from Joseph Smith's three earliest letters (written in 1829-1830), historical context, church manuals, apologetic arguments, and modern scholarship, we critically explore where the evidence leads. We don't care where you land on the belief spectrum –our is clarity, transparency, and accuracy.We are joined today by Kolby Reddish and Julia (Nemo couldn't make it), who walk us through the major claims, the apologetic narratives, and the documents themselves. This is an episode you won't want to miss!___________________⁠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

Tonight on The Mormon Newscast, we're diving into a major update in the Wade Christofferson case. New details are out about how the LDS Church allegedly handled his membership, leadership callings, and decades of abuse reports. And what this says about the system itself. We'll walk through the new timeline, the institutional decisions, and why… Read More »How The Mormon Church Enabled Wade Christofferson? The post How The Mormon Church Enabled Wade Christofferson? appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

Over several decades, the LDS Church produced a series of books each year from their first 16 presidents. These were leather-bound and had gilded pages. They were given to church employees with a card explaining they were given by the First Presidency. We think this is about as “official” as it gets. Today MRM's Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson look at sermons by 13th President Ezra Taft Benson.

Send us a Positive Review!Join Valerie and therapist colleague Dr. Julie Hanks in this recording of a recent “Instagram Live” where they explored the recent breaking news from LDS Newsroom decreasing the eligibility age from 19 to 18 for young women interested in serving full-time missions. In this conversation Val and Julie tackle possible as variety of topics, including short term and long term social, cultural, and mental health drawbacks and benefits that might follow this policy change. They also address how skyrocketing attrition rates from women in patriarchal churches worldwide (and within the LDS church) might be connected to this shift in policy. Don't miss this riveting discussion that continues to correlate the connection between psychological health and gender equality—a topic that these two heritage Latter-day Saint therapists have committed a great deal of their careers to highlighting for the benefits of the LDS Church and all connected to it.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and Guest Introduction01:29 – Implications of Mission Age Change02:27 – Gender Roles and Patriarchy03:30 – Strategic Motivations and Retention04:51 – Personal Reflections on Mission Experiences06:04 – Missions as Catalysts for Change08:45 – Concerns About Early Marriage and Education10:00 – Generational Differences and Faith Journeys12:23 – Temple Access for Young Women13:30 – Women Leaving Organized Religion14:09 – Challenges and Opportunities for Church Evolution16:00 – Paradox of Devotion and Faith Crisis19:16 – Balancing Individuality and Community in Faith20:30 – The Church's Developmental Stage22:21 – Potential for Organizational Change24:00 – Normalizing Women's Leadership31:50 – Impact of Mission Age on Family Life32:17 – Egalitarian Structure in the Church33:32 – Women's Leadership and Identity35:30 – Birth Rate and Missionary Integration37:00 – Economic Realities and Family Planning39:39 – Mental Health Concerns for Young Missionaries40:24 – Pressure and Autonomy in Missionary Service42:00 – Stigma and Social Ranking45:23 – Patriarchy and Gender Roles in the Church47:15 – The Cost of Conformity49:54 – Encouragement for Individual Choices51:00 – Redefining Spirituality and Autonomy52:39 – Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupport the showSupport the show Listen, Share, Rate & Review EPISODES Friday Episodes Annual Access $89 Friday Episodes Monthly Access $10 Valerie's Support & Processing Groups Gift a Scholarship Download Free Resources Visit our Website

Over several decades, the LDS Church produced a series of books each year from their first 16 presidents. These were leather-bound and had gilded pages. They were given to church employees with a card explaining they were given by the First Presidency. We think this is about as "official" as it gets. Today MRM's Bill McKeever and Eric Johnson look at the book written by 14th President Howard W. Hunter.

Ross Wesley LeBaron played the role of eccentric prophet. The second oldest son of patriarch Alma Dayer LeBaron Sr., carved a distinct path in Utah. Ross founded the Church of the Firstborn. His teachings presented a unique fundamentalist cosmology focused on distributing sacred authority rather than concentrating it, emphasizing that “the honor is in the work, not the title.” https://youtu.be/fHYDKiaoZ5o Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Authority Above the Church: Dissemination vs. Concentration Ross LeBaron’s theology centered on the concept of a higher order of priesthood existing “above the [LDS] Church” structure. This authority, which he called the Patriarchal Priesthood, originated with the keys restored by Moses, Elias, and Elijah in the Kirtland Temple (D&C 110). This higher priesthood manifested in the Nauvoo period as the authority to make men “kings and priests” (and women “queens and priestesses”), often referred to as the fullness of the priesthood. Ross taught that this authority should be widely distributed among worthy men, acting as a check and balance against unrighteous leadership. He contrasted this view sharply with the prevailing fundamentalist models (like the Woolley line, which later split into FLDS and AUB) that focused on concentrating supreme authority either in a single presiding figure (the “one man rule”) or a small “Council of Seven”. Ross felt the stability of the priesthood lay in this dissemination of authority, allowing many men to hold the highest keys for their own families. Ross LeBaron’s Priesthood Claim Ross’s authority traced back to his grandfather, Benjamin F. Johnson, a close confidant of Joseph Smith and the last living original member of the Council of Fifty. Johnson claimed that Joseph Smith had authorized him to teach the principles of plural marriage, endowments, garments, and the Second Anointing “when I’m led to do so”. This unique claim bypassed Ross’s father (Benjamin Franklin LeBaron) and passed to his grandfather, Alma Dayer LeBaron Sr. (“Dayer”.) Ross received a patriarchal blessing and the “keys, rights, and authority of the patriarchal order of priesthood” from his father, Dayer, in 1950. Although Dayer died without naming a clear successor, leaving behind a succession crisis, Ross eventually received a revelation confirming that the patriarchal priesthood he held was the fullness of the Melchizedek Priesthood. He subsequently concluded that, as Joseph Smith’s birthright, he was the “one anointed and appointed” referenced in D&C 132:73. Eccentric Prophet's Ministry &  the Second Anointing Ross’s ministry in Utah often relied on eccentric methods to gain public notice. He spent over 20 years on radio shows (like KSXX) attempting to be controversial or “silly” (clowning around) to draw attention before sharing his message, mirroring unusual methods sometimes used by Old Testament prophets. A crucial element of Ross’s authority was the belief that the patriarchal keys authorized him to perform temple ordinances, including the Second Anointing. Reviving the Second Anointing: Ross and his early follower, Robert Eaby (a former scribe for the AUB Council and participant in Musser’s School of the Prophets), became pioneers in researching and restoring the Second Anointing outside of the LDS Church. Robert Eaby, who had learned about the ordinance through connections to early prayer circles, was able to assist in administering the endowments and then the Second Anointing, making them the first fundamentalists known to perform the ordinance (circa 1967/1968). Historical Context: This revival occurred during a period when the ordinance was largely discontinued within the mainstream LDS Church, having been generally halted by Heber J. Grant in the late 1920s and not widely performed again until it was revived by Spencer W. Kimball in the 1970s. Ross also stressed individual accountability and agency. When a follower sought revelatory guidance from him regarding a major life decision, Ross challenged him: “Why are you afraid of taking responsibility for yourself? Don’t your knees work? Go to God yourself and get revelation for yourself.” This focus on the individual patriarch holding authority for their own family underscored Ross’s belief that while leaders were fallible, the highest order of priesthood could and should be accessed by all worthy individuals. Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

This week on the Mormon News Roundup (Ep. 183 – Nov 16, 2025), we dive into another wild week in Mormonism:⛪ Apostle Speaks on Callings – Viral clips raise questions about spiritual authority and LDS Church transparency

Evil Ervil LeBaron was a killer. He killed not only his brother Joel LeBaron, but had his wives kill rival Rulon Allred. He was known to have a hit list of others, including President Spencer Kimball of the LDS Church. Jacob Vidrine discusses these events and we’ll discuss the recent drug killings to a LeBaron family in Mexico. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/23RT8A5HEww Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission God's Executioner: How Ervil LeBaron's Quest for Authority Led to Murder and Stigma When discussing Mormon fundamentalism, the name LeBaron often conjures images of violence and notoriety, largely due to the actions of Ervil LeBaron. Though the family's original movement—the Church of the Firstborn—was rooted in unique priesthood claims tracing back to Nauvoo, Ervil's descent into murder and extremism permanently attached a “stigma” to the LeBaron name. Rise of the Violent Theologian Ervil LeBaron was one of the younger sons of Alma Dayer LeBaron (Dayer) and was initially associated with the Mexico branch of the family, led by his brother Joel LeBaron. Ervil was recognized early on as a key figure in establishing Joel's church, serving as a great theologian who authored the important pamphlet Priesthood Expounded. Joel rewarded his loyalty by appointing Ervil to the prestigious position of presiding patriarch over their Mexican church, the number two office under Joel. However, Ervil's rise was quickly marred by corruption. Reports indicated that Ervil began embezzling tithing funds and had a reputation for being predatory, attempting to get all the wives for himself and generally aggrandizing himself through his authority. By 1970, the controversy surrounding Ervil’s financial and moral conduct grew so severe that many members and leaders within Joel's church felt the need to curb his influence. Schism and the Birth of Violence In response to Ervil’s excesses, Joel made the drastic decision to strip Ervil of all authority in the church. Ervil, angered by the loss of his prestige and power, convinced himself that he was justified in killing Joel for taking away his authority. This marked the schism, leading Ervil to form his own group, the Church of the Lamb of God. Ervil’s actions escalated quickly into violence. He claimed a radical, theocratic justification for his subsequent murders: he asserted that he held the civil authority over the earth as “God’s appointed agent”. Based on this claim, Ervil believed he could kill anyone who was “treasonous against his government”. Ervil ordered Dan Jordan, one of his followers, to murder Joel LeBaron, which occurred in 1972. This assassination cut off the head of Joel's organization, as Joel died without appointing a successor to his highest office. Infamous Hit List After murdering his brother, Ervil was determined to eliminate any remaining opposition. He began threatening other fundamentalists and created a massive hit list. He was reportedly concerned about Verlan LeBaron, who had been appointed by Joel to replace Ervil as the presiding patriarch. Verlan was forced to go into hiding for nearly a decade to avoid Ervil’s retribution. To draw Verlan out of hiding, Ervil devised a calculated and shocking plan: he ordered the murder of Rulon Allred, the leader of the Allred Group (AUB). Ervil targeted Allred because Verlan had married into Rulon's family, believing Verlan would attend the funeral. Rulon Allred was assassinated in his doctor’s office in 1977. Ervil allegedly sent two of his wives to commit the crime, securing their commitment to his violent cause. Although Verlan was present at Allred’s funeral, the overwhelming police presence spooked Ervil’s followers, saving Verlan’s life. Ervil LeBaron's End and the Lingering Tragedy Ervil was eventually apprehended in Mexico, extradited, and convicted in 1980 for ordering Allred's death, receiving a life sentence in Utah State Prison. However, the violence did not end there. Ervil died in prison in 1981 in an apparent suicide. Tragically, just two days after Ervil's death was discovered, Verlan LeBaron—the man Ervil had spent years trying to kill—died in an auto accident in Mexico City. Several family members and observers suspected that this was not a coincidence, believing it was a sabotage hit ordered by Ervil's followers, who continued their deadly work even after Ervil's incarceration. Ervil's actions permanently “soil[ed] the whole [LeBaron]” family, transforming a unique movement rooted in secret Nauvoo priesthood claims into one synonymous with a twisted quest for power and serial murder. LeBarón and Langford Families Massacre Tragedy continues in Mexico as recently as 2019. Nine people were killed with some burned alive in a car (three women and six children, all of whom held dual US–Mexican citizenship).[3][4] They were members of the LeBaron and Langford families. A drug cartel is believed to be behind the attack.[5][6] In January 2025, a federal judge in Mexico ordered the Attorney General’s Office to investigate the massacre as an act of terrorism in Mexico. Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

Part 8 Whenever one asks a member of a cult whether they have absolute and full assurance of salvation, ninety-nine times out of a hundred, one will be met first with a stutter followed by the answer, "I hope so!"  The reason for this is that cults cannot offer their members assurance of salvation, because salvation depends on remaining a member, since there is no salvation outside that particular group.  This is true of Jehovah's Witnesses, Roman Catholics, including the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.   The topic of focus in this final teaching part is two-fold.  Before one can understand how a member of the LDS Church qualifies for salvation, it is essential to ask the question, What is salvation? Download teaching notes (pdf) https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/bethesdashalom/8_The_Doctrine_of_Salvation.pdf 

Welcome back to our deep-dive coverage of Secret lives of Mormon Wives!In this episode, we break down every twist, confession, and jaw-dropping moment from Season 3 with honest reactions, analysis, and plenty of laughs along the way. Our panelists today are: Hayley Rawle (of Girl's Camp Podcast), Alyssa Alexander, Smantha Shelley (of Zelph on the Shelf), Brooklyn Alden and Dr. John Dehlin. If you've ollowed our previous reviews, you alreaedy know -we're all about thoughtful commetary, behind-the-scenes context, and pointing out the details you may have missed.In Part One of our Season 3 review, we're exploring the storyline, relationships, and "revelations" that kick off the season. Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or jumping in for the first time, we'll help you make sense of the drama, the dynamics, and the secrets simmering under the surface.So grab a snack, get comfy, and join us as we unpack it all -episode by episode! Watch the series on Hulu here: https://www.hulu.com/series/the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives-58cd73be-408d-4eed-8e3d-82339f3f93e2___________________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

My friend Isaac Durfey (who was on episode 833) joins us to update listeners on his journey including: * Parent leaving on a mission * What happened to help him stopping “hating himself for being gay” * Importance of new beginnings * Friends like Jake and Joe Sharp (who were on episode 811) * Feeling about the Family Proclamation * Hope for the future * Love of the LDS Church and the support/love he receives Thank you, my friend Isaac, for being on the podcast—you are a good man. Links: Episode 833: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-833-isaac-durfey-black-gay-latter-day-saint/id1347971725?i=1000710494050 Episode 811: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-811-jake-and-joe-sharp-lost-brother-sam-to/id1347971725?i=1000691741343

In this episode, we break down the story of a Latter-day Saint Bishop who when he was currently serving when he officially stepped away from the Mormon Church. We'll walk through what led to his decision, what he saw behind the curtain as a leader, and how the gap between the Church's public messaging and its private reality became impossible for him to ignore. This isn't just another faith transition story. It's a rare account from someone who lived the system, moved up in the ward hierarchy, enforced the rules, and finally couldn't keep pretending the narrative matched the facts. We'll also talk about the fallout: how his ward reacted, how local leaders tried to handle the situation, and what this kind of departure says about the broader institutional cracks appearing inside modern Mormonism. It's raw, honest, and a window into the experiences that thousands in leadership quietly wrestle with. Support Mormonism Live: https://mormonismlive.org/Donate-To-Mormonism-Live/ If anyone needs support dealing with spiritual trauma, 1-on-1 coaching and support groups are available at https://awakenandthrive.org/ To Join the Post-Mormon Celebration Cruise – https://kheskethtravel.com/post-mormon-celebration-cruise/And for more info on the cruise – https://mormondiscussionpodcast.org/post-mormon-celebration-cruise/

1950s were a tumultuous time for Mormon polygamists. Not only did police jail many for polygamy, but there were Mormon Fundamentalist Schisms. Many groups including Joseph Musser and the LeBaron families split apart. Jacob Vidrine of the Church of the Firstborn gives more details. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/1hdRUUQ8Gv0 Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Dramatic 1955 Schism that Defined the LeBaron Legacy The history of Mormon fundamentalism is filled with contested authority claims, but few are as immediate and dramatic as the split that occurred between Ross and Joel LeBaron in the mid-1950s. This schism not only severed the nascent Church of the Firstborn into two distinct movements but also cemented radically different interpretations of priesthood authority that traced back to Nauvoo. From Mexico to Utah: Quest for the Kingdom Following the death of their father, Alma Dayer LeBaron (Dayer), who had claimed a unique authority line through Benjamin F. Johnson, the family faced a succession crisis. Joel LeBaron and his brothers (including Verlin and Floren) were primarily based in Mexico and had initially affiliated themselves with the Allred Group (AUB), which was the Salt Lake-based faction of the larger Woolley fundamentalist movement after the 1950s split. In 1955, Joel and his brothers traveled to Utah specifically to request funding from the Allred Council to establish a United Order in Mexico. While staying in Utah, they interacted with their brother, Ross Wesley LeBaron, the second oldest son, who had been ministering separately in the Utah area. Ross's Vision: The Higher Church Ross had received a commission from his father in 1950 to carry on the “patriarchal work”. His theology provided a unique perspective in the fundamentalist landscape, teaching that the Church of the Firstborn was not merely a holding pattern for the “out-of-order” LDS Church, but rather a “higher church above the Church of Jesus Christ”. Ross argued that the goal was not to “fall back into the church” but to “advance into the church of the firstborn,” emphasizing the higher principles of the patriarchal order restored by Moses, Elias, and Elijah in the Kirtland Temple. Ross converted his visiting brothers, Joel and Floren, “back to believing in their father’s authority line” and the patriarchal priesthood. Excited, the brothers decided to formally organize a new church5. The September Organization and Contested Authority On September 21, 1955, Ross, Joel, and Floren gathered for an organizational meeting that established the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times. The minutes of this meeting articulated the specific authority lineage claimed by the family: Joseph Smith passed patriarchal keys to Benjamin F. Johnson, who passed them to Alma LeBaron (Dayer), who conferred them on his sons. In this initial organization: Ross Wesley LeBaron was sustained as the head patriarch, holding the keys and calling received from their father. Ross emphasized that “the honor is in the work, not the title,” focusing on the substance of the calling rather than merely claiming specific offices. Joel LeBaron was ordained to the office of president of the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times. Floren LeBaron was set apart as a counselor. Ross claimed he ordained both Joel and Floren as patriarchs1012. However, this unity was fleeting. Joel's Claim to the One Mighty and Strong Within approximately a week of the organization, Joel decided to split from Ross. Joel sought a higher, incontrovertible claim to authority to override Ross’s position as the patriarch holding the keys. Joel traveled up Farmington Canyon and claimed to receive a revelation or a theophany. He claimed that “no fewer than… 17 or 18 different past prophets” appeared to him on the mountain. Crucially, these messengers allegedly appointed Joel as “the one mighty and strong”. This claim directly targeted Ross’s earlier teachings; Ross had claimed the birthright of Joseph Smith and described his own work as merely “preparatory work until the one mighty and strong came”. By claiming this specific title, Joel effectively trumped Ross’s foundational claim and secured his own undisputed position as the highest authority. The dramatic revelation led to a swift separation, with Ross remaining in Utah and Joel returning to Mexico, where he would successfully grow his branch of the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times to several thousand members, emphasizing a restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ structure (complete with a Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and a High Council), rather than Ross’s focus on the higher patriarchal order. ——————————————————————————– In essence, the split between Ross and Joel LeBaron illustrates a fundamental tension in fundamentalist authority: the conflict between inheriting authority (Ross, the Birthright, the Patriarchal Keys) versus receiving new, definitive revelation (Joel, the Theophany, the One Mighty and Strong). Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

In this episode, we break down the story of a Latter-day Saint Bishop who when he was currently serving when he officially stepped away from the Mormon Church. We'll walk through what led to his decision, what he saw behind the curtain as a leader, and how the gap between the Church's public messaging and… Read More »Mormon Bishop Leaves LDS Church !

In this episode, we break down the story of a Latter-day Saint Bishop who when he was currently serving when he officially stepped away from the Mormon Church. We'll walk through what led to his decision, what he saw behind the curtain as a leader, and how the gap between the Church's public messaging and… Read More »Mormon Bishop Leaves LDS Church !

#Utah #MormonCulture #ExMormon #Faith #Religion #LDS #Mormonism #ChurchLeaders #Corruption #Apostasy  Today's guest is Heidi Luv, host of the Unfiltered Rise Podcast. A podcast that focuses on Rabbit Holes, ExMo's, & Conspiracy Theories. She describes herself and her show as: "Rising above, always Unfiltered this because I always am 100 genuine and raw. Everything from Occult Mormonism to Conspiracies I try to cover it all with respect and a smile." We both discuss our experiences from inside the LDS Church, our reasoning for leaving, life after leaving the church, our hopes for those who decided to stay in, the toxic nature of some ExMo (Ex-Mormon) circles, and many other topics! [Video version can be found on the Rise To Liberty YouTube & Rumble channels] RISE TO LIBERTY - MASTER LINK: https://allmylinks.com/risetoliberty GUEST LINKS: [Heidi Luv - Unfiltered Rise Podcast] Unfiltered Rise Podcast Website: https://unfilteredrisepodcast.com/ Unfiltered Rise Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4pzqktZNcGNZhzAeF9Zd3Q Unfiltered Rise Podcast on X: https://x.com/UnfilteredRise Unfiltered Rise Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredrise_podcast

Will there be polygamy in heaven? We’re diving into Ross LeBaron story with Jacob Vidrine of the Church of the Firstborn. I’ll also ask Jacob if polygamy a requirement for the Celestial Kingdom. Will it be monogamy or polygamy in heaven? His answer surprised me! We discuss Law of Adoption & the Manifesto ending polygamy in the LDS Church as well. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/m20kOKhSdLA 0:00 1st Successor: Ross LeBaron 13:57 Law of Adoption 22:03 Requirement for Polygamy in Heaven? 28:59 Manifesto Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Nauvoo Foundation: Priesthood Above Church To understand the LeBaron claim, one must look back to Nauvoo Mormonism, where Joseph Smith introduced the concept of higher orders of priesthood. This “highest order of the Melchizedek Priesthood” was often referred to as the “fullness of the priesthood” and involved making men and women “kings and priests” in temple ordinances. Associated with this was the Council of 50, which Joseph Smith established just months before his death as the “literal government” or “political kingdom of God on the earth.” Historical evidence suggests that the Council of 50 was intended to be a presiding priesthood body that held authority no church tribunal could control. Benjamin F. Johnson was one of the men added to the Council of 50 on March 26, 1844, just before Joseph Smith’s death. Johnson was a close friend of Joseph Smith and was taught directly about plural marriage, endowments, garments, and the Second Anointing. Johnson later asserted that he was authorized by Joseph Smith “to teach this to others when I’m was led to do so.” After the Council of 50 ceased meeting (it became defunct after 1885/1911 when Joseph F. Smith denied the request to reconvene it), Johnson emphasized that he was the last living original member of the Council of 50. ——————————————————————————– Transmission of the Birthright The LeBaron authority claim rests on Johnson passing this special, secret Nauvoo authority—which included the Fullness of the Priesthood and involvement in the Kingdom of God structure—to his grandson, Alma Dayer LeBaron (Dayer.) This transfer of keys was unusual because it bypassed Dayer’s own father, Benjamin Franklin LeBaron. The LeBaron family justified this by drawing analogies to the Old Testament, such as Jacob appointing Ephraim the birthright over his older brother Manasseh. The lineage runs: Joseph Smith à  Benjamin F. Johnson à Alma Dayer LeBaron. The family tradition holds that in the mid-1890s, when Dayer was about 10 years old, Johnson gave him a patriarchal blessing appointing him to hold the “birthright of Joseph Smith.” This “birthright” concept relates to special blessings given in the Nauvoo Temple, granting “special authority to authorize the temple… work for the dead” within a family context. Before Johnson died (around 1905), he reportedly charged Dayer to “carry on the kingdom” and conferred upon him all the priesthood that Johnson had received from Joseph Smith. Dayer spent the remainder of his life establishing his family and practicing plural marriage in Mexico, having been excommunicated from the LDS Church. Because he was secretive about his authority claim, Dayer was sometimes called the “silent prophet” or “quiet heir of the kingdom.” LeBaron Split: Ross’s Unique Theology Following Dayer’s death in the early 1950s without naming a clear successor, a succession crisis ensued, leading to major schisms among his sons: Ben (who was mentally unwell), Ross Wesley LeBaron (second oldest), and Joel LeBaron (a younger son.) Ross, who operated primarily in Utah, built his claim on a commission received from Dayer in 1950 to carry on the “patriarchal work.” Ross emphasized a cosmology that directly reflected the Nauvoo concepts: Patriarchal Priesthood as Highest Authority: Ross taught that the Church of the Firstborn was a higher church above the Church of Jesus Christ. This was the priesthood restored by Moses, Elias, and Elijah in the Kirtland Temple. Dissemination of Authority: Unlike the Woolley line, which concentrated power in a central “Council of Friends,” Ross’s theology focused on giving this highest authority (patriarchal keys) to many worthy men for their own family spheres, acting as a check and balance against the concentration of power. Emphasis on Work over Title: Ross received a revelation that affirmed, “the honor is in the work, not the title,” which distinguished his ministry from other fundamentalists focused solely on claiming specific offices. The distinct nature of this lineage—tracing independent temple and kingdom authority through a Council of 50 member rather than through the apostolic line—is why LeBaronism remains a peculiar and historically fascinating branch of Mormon fundamentalism. Status of Monogamists in Celestial Kingdom Historically, leaders whose teachings form the basis of fundamentalist theology (such as Brigham Young and Lyman Wight) taught that monogamous people can go to the celestial kingdom. Faithfulness, Not Numbers: The primary factor for achieving the celestial kingdom is how faithful you are to the gospel, not simply the number of wives one possesses. A “Gallon Measure”: When questioned about whether a man could be exalted without plural wives, Brigham Young reportedly responded using an analogy: “you can’t put a gallon and a pint measure, but both can be made filled full.” He concluded that “If a man is faithful with one wife, he may grow to be a gallon measure.” Requirement of Acceptance: The view held by those attempting to harmonize these teachings is that a faithful monogamist must accept plural marriage in their faith as being a true principle in order to qualify for the celestial kingdom. Polygamy in Heaven: Attaining the Highest Glory and Godhood While a monogamist can achieve the celestial kingdom, the practice of plural marriage is tied to the highest level of exaltation and becoming a God. Greater Glory: Polygamists are understood to attain a greater glory in the celestial kingdom. The Law of Godhood: The perspective is that if “we do not live the same law that our heavenly father lives then we cannot go where he is,” suggesting that plural marriage is part of the law of Godhood. Therefore, in order to be a god, you will have to eventually practice polygamy. Priesthood Authority: The doctrine of John Taylor maintained that a man living a “lower law cannot preside over a man living a higher law.” The fulfillment of the “celestial law” (including plural marriage) is seen as a “stepping stone to exaltation” and to the “responsibility of godhood.” Degrees of Glory (Specific Cosmologies): Within some fundamentalist cosmologies (like that articulated by Ross LeBaron, derived partially from Lorin Woolley), the degrees of the celestial kingdom are associated with plural marriage. One specific cosmology suggested that attaining the highest degree of the celestial kingdom might require seven or more wives, the middle degree five, and the bottom degree three. However, Ross LeBaron viewed these as “celestial patterns that aren’t necessarily attained on earth.” In summary, fundamentalist theology generally holds that acceptance of plural marriage as a true principle is essential for celestial glory, and its eventual practice is considered necessary for the greatest glory and achieving Godhood. Ross LeBaron’s particular theology, however, often took plural marriage for granted and focused more heavily on the patriarchal priesthood and keys necessary for the “higher church” (the Church of the Firstborn.) Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

Welcome to Part 23 of our Joseph Smith the Podcast series with Dr. John G. Turner. Today we are continuing our discussion of Chapter 19 of his new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet” that covers the years 1838-1839 in Missouri.Today we will dive deeper into one of the most volatile and consequential moments in early Latter-day Saint history: the escalating conflict between the Mormon settlers and the Missourians in the late 1830s. In this episode, we examine how political tensions, misinformation, vigilante actions, and religious absolutism collided to create a crisis that would lead to the infamous extermination order and some of the darkest events of the Mormon-Missouri War.We explore the political landscape of Missouri, Joseph Smith's rising militancy, the Danites, the allegations made by Thomas Marsh and Orson Hyde, the tragedy at Haun's Mill, and the forces that brought both sides to the brink. From mob violence to theological justifications, from desperate settlers to governors refusing to intervene, this chapter shows how a religious movement and a frontier state found themselves locked in a spiral neither could escape.If you've been following the series, this episode continues directly from Part 22 and sets the stage for the next chapter: Liberty Jail.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

Between January 1835 and December 1837, Joseph Smith experienced some of the most dramatic, spiritually rich, and challenging years of his life. This video dives deep into this pivotal period—marked by revelations, leadership developments, financial turmoil, and growing internal and external pressures on the young Church.Link to next episode: COMING SOON!

In this episode of The Jimmy Rex Show, Jimmy sits down with local legend and breakout reality-TV personality Chase McWhorter, one of the most talked-about husbands on Hulu's hit series Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. Fresh off Season 3, Chase opens up about being edited as the “villain,” relives the infamous Halloween party, and breaks down the moments viewers only see in fragments on screen.From public backlash to being labeled “America's fuck-boy” while trying to show up as a dad, Chase shares the unfiltered version of his story—what he owns, what he regrets, and what people get wrong about him off-camera. Jimmy and Chase dive into accountability, consent, and how exaggerated accusations hurt real victims. They talk about infidelity, “yellow-light” behaviors that lead to cheating, and why radical honesty is the only path to rebuilding trust—in marriage, friendship, and co-parenting. Chase discusses his Mormon upbringing, stepping away from the LDS Church, and working to maintain a healthy relationship with his ex-wife Miranda, while Jimmy connects it all back to men's work, healing modalities, and becoming a man capable of real connection.If you're fascinated by Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, interested in modern relationships under scrutiny, or just want to hear two guys talk honestly about the messiness of growth—this episode delivers.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction01:25 – Chase on Season 3 and instant backlash04:10 – Being painted as the “villain”07:00 – The Halloween party chaos & what really happened10:45 – The “assault” claim & why context matters14:30 – How serious accusations hurt real victims18:20 – Marriage, separation, and accountability22:15 – “Yellow lights” that lead to cheating26:00 – Jimmy on owning your mistakes30:40 – Chase on stepping away from the LDS Church33:55 – Co-parenting with Miranda & public perception38:10 – Dakota, Taylor, and the show's most complicated relationship42:05 – Men's work, breathwork, and healing45:50 – Jimmy on relationships vs singleness50:00 – Chase on fame, labels, and being misunderstood54:20 – Why Secret Lives resonates nationally59:10 – What's next for ChaseRelated Episodes:Layla Taylor – Secret Lives of Mormon Wiveshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/559-layla-taylor-star-of-hulus-new-1-show-the/id1315033271?i=1000669280139Taylor Frankie Paul – The MomTok / Swinging Scandalhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/421-taylor-frankie-paul-the-mormon-momtok-swinging/id1315033271?i=1000613581753Follow Jimmy:Jimmy's Instagram: https://instagram.com/mrjimmyrexJimmy's Website: https://mrjimmyrex.com

Part 7 When one is dealing with a cult, there are always two main areas where the scope of the target is aimed.  Attacking either one of these is enough to designate a group a cult, but more commonly, one will find that the cults delight in destroying both.  What are these two areas of repeated attack?  The person of Jesus Christ and the doctrine of justification by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.  No cult will ever discard the name of Jesus, as the devil seeks through subtilty to catch the unsuspected soul off guard.  Muslims have a Jesus, Jehovah's Witnesses have a Jesus, the Roman Catholic Church has a Jesus, and so do the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  The question is not whether they have a Jesus but which Jesus.  Do they have the real Jesus of Holy Scripture?   How is one to determine whether the Jesus Christ of Mormonism is the Jesus Christ of Scripture?  How is one to know whether the Jesus Christ of the LDS Church is the genuine Jesus or a counterfeit imposter?  The only way of ascertaining this is by examining LDS doctrine as it relates to Jesus Christ, they profess.  In this seventh teaching part, careful examination shall be given to see if the Mormon Jesus is the biblical Jesus.   Download teaching notes (pdf) https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/bethesdashalom/7_The_Doctrine_of_Christ.pdf

In part two of this important series with Rebecca Lucero Jones, we explore the question: What happens when a Mormon widow tries to be sealed to two men? In the LDS faith, a man can be sealed to a second wife if his first wife passes away. But, as we will learn from Rebecca's story, Mormon widows do not receive the same treatment.After the death of her first husband, Rebecca describes what it was like to find a second chance at love and marriage. She then shares her experience requesting a “second-sealing clearance” from LDS Church leaders (in order to be sealed to her living husband), and what their ultimate response to this request was.We also discuss how current policies complicate questions of the afterlife for these families. These policies leave widows feeling uncertain about their place in eternity and, in turn, often undesired by Mormon men who hope to avoid this existential confusion.___________________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 this episode, we uncover the hidden world of Mormonism — from Joseph Smith's treasure-digging origins and Brigham Young's desert theocracy to the Danites, Mountain Meadows Massacre, and the modern LDS empire fueled by billion-dollar investment arms, political pipelines, Freemasonic roots, and a counterfeit gospel that shapes everything they do. We follow the threads through theology, secrecy, Israel connections, government over-representation, and financial power to reveal the complete picture behind the polished missionary smile.In the second half of the podcast, Bill Schnoebelen's classic Prophecy Club lecture, What Is Wrong With Mormonism, dives into the hidden doctrines, temple rituals, and occult roots of the LDS Church from the perspective of a former insider. Drawing on his firsthand experience and research, Schnoebelen exposes the Masonic foundations, false revelations, and spiritual dangers embedded in the system that most missionaries never reveal at your door—a perfect companion to tonight's deep dive.Email: thefacthunter@mail.comShow Notes:BYU Jerusalem Centerhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BYU_Jerusalem_CenterMoriah and the Mormon Leadershiphttps://www.bibliotecapleyades.net/bloodlines/mormon.htmEzra Taft Bensonhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ezra_Taft_Benson

Em Gillespie joins Jonesy & Amanda with the latest in entertainment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we are kicking off our two-part series with Rebecca Lucero Jones, who is here to share her story of losing her husband and the unique complications widows face within the Mormon faith. We will be examining the question of what the Mormon afterlife looks like for widows.In Part 1, Rebecca describes her Mormon upbringing and her eventual marriage to her first husband, Isaac, with whom she had two children before he was tragically killed in a car accident.Be sure to join us again later this week for the conclusion of Rebecca's Mormon story and her efforts to obtain a second-sealing clearance from LDS Church leadership.This is a fascinating and important issue faced by widows in the Mormon church—one we feel deserves to be brought to light.___________________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 this week's Mormon News Roundup (Ep. 182 – Nov 11, 2025), Dives breaks down the biggest headlines from the world of Mormonism:

Welcome back for Part 22 of our Joseph Smith the Podcast series with Dr. John G. Turner as we continue to cover his new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”In this episode, we explore one of the most controversial and lesser-known chapters in early Latter-day Saint history –the rise of the Danites, a secretive paramilitary organization formed during the turbulent Missouri period of 1838.We trace tensions between Mormons and non-Mormons escalated into organized violence, how Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and other church leaders responded, and what this meant for the future of the Latter-day Saint movement. Along the way, we discuss excommunications, failed settlements, political conflicts, and the enduring question: Did Joseph Smith authorize the Danites' violent actions?This is the first half of Chapter 19 of the book, covering the years 1838-1839 in Missouri –where “Zion” collided with the American frontier.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

This week on the Mormon Newscast, we start with Tim Ballard, who's now claiming the LDS Church has its own “deep state.” We break down what he actually said, why he's saying it now, and how this keeps pushing the Church into a political storm it does not want. Next, we look at a disturbing… Read More »Tim Ballard Strikes Again The post Tim Ballard Strikes Again appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

In this fascinating interview, author and journalist Alex Beam joins Mormon Stories to discuss his new biography titled Wallace Stegner: Dean of Western Writers –published by Signature Books. Alex Beam is an acclaimed journalist and author known for his insightful historical biographies. Historian and executive director of Signature Books, Barbara Jones Brown is also joining us today!Beam explores the life, legacy, and complex relationships Stegner had with Mormonism, the American West, and figures like Joseph Smith and Gordon B. Hinckley. From Stegner's friendship and literary achievements to his nuanced understanding of Mormon culture, this conversation dives into history, literature, and faith.Buy his new book from Signature books: https://www.signaturebooks.com/books/p/wallace-stegner___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

Join John and Carah Burrell as they review Tim Ballard's recent attacks on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.___________________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 second part of Willie Grill's discussion with Bryan Stecker on the podcast On The Line about the origins of Mormonism. Watch the full episode on YouTube  Visit our website - A Brief History of Power Thanks to our sponsor, Gnesio Health Pr. Willie Grills - Zion Lutheran Church Music thanks to Verny

I'm excited to introduce Jacob Vidrine, a member of Church of the Firstborn. This is a group that is part of the LeBaron fundamentalist group. Jacob is a human encyclopedia of Mormn fundamentalism, and we're going to dive deep into how the LeBaron group cross-pollinates with other fundamentalist groups. Check it out! 0:00 Intro LeBaron Family 4:16 Lorin Woolley Authority Claims 15:20 Kingston & LeBaron Claims 19:18 High Priest Apostles 21:05 Sidney Rigdon Trial 23:53 2nd Anointing-Patriarchal Succession For more info on Mormon fundamentalism: https://gospeltangents.com/denominations/fundamentalim/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission. When discussing Mormon Fundamentalism, most people—especially members of the LDS Church—immediately think of the FLDS or AUB (Apostolic United Brethren). These groups largely trace their origin back to the authority line popularized by Lorin Woolley. However, there is a fascinating and often misunderstood branch of fundamentalism that descends from a completely different line of authority: the LeBarons. As a helpful overview of this distinctive lineage, we spoke with Jacob Vidrine of the Church of the Firstborn, sometimes colloquially referred to as Ross LeBaron-ites. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The LeBaron Divide: Ross vs. Ervil The name LeBaron often carries a dark stigma, primarily due to the terrible acts committed by Ervil LeBaron, who was a murderer and died in jail. It is important to note that Vidrine is not associated with Ervil's group6.... The LeBaron family, descending from patriarch Alma Dayer LeBaron Sr. ("Dayer"), primarily split into two main groups: The Mexico LeBarons: Started by younger son Joel LeBaron in 1955 as the "Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times." Joel's church grew significantly before the violent schism with Ervil. The Ross LeBaron Line (Church of the Firstborn): Ross LeBaron, the second oldest son, separated and spent his ministry largely in the Utah area, minimizing affiliation with the strife and violence that occurred down in Mexico. Ross's movement is the one Jacob Vidrine is associated with. Authority: Woolley's 1886 Revelation vs. The LeBaron Lineage Approximately 80% to 90% of fundamentalists trace their priesthood authority back to the Lorin Woolley story. This claim rests on the assertion that John Taylor received a revelation in 1886 confirming that plural marriage should never be removed from the earth, after which he set apart men (including Woolley) to keep the practice alive. Historically, however, the LeBarons and Kingstons maintain a distinct authority claim. The LeBaron claim is deemed by some to be "the most peculiar out of any fundamentalist claim", as it bypasses the 1886 revelation entirely and goes straight back to the Nauvoo era through Benjamin F. Johnson. Johnson Connection & Birthright Benjamin F. Johnson was a close friend of Joseph Smith and was one of the men added to the Council of 50 in March 1844. Johnson was heavily invested in the secretive Nauvoo doctrines and claimed that Joseph Smith taught him about plural marriage, the endowment, garments, and the second anointing. Crucially, Johnson claimed that Joseph Smith authorized him "to teach this to others when I'm was led to when I'm led to do" by the Holy Spirit. Alma Dayer LeBaron, the patriarch of the LeBaron family, was Benjamin F. Johnson's grandson. Family tradition holds that Johnson conferred upon Dayer a patriarchal blessing in the mid-1890s, appointing him to the "birthright of Joseph Smith" to preside over the family. Near his death (1905), Johnson allegedly charged Dayer to carry on the kingdom and conferred all the priesthood authority that Johnson had received from Joseph Smith. Alma Dayer LeBaron was secretive about this authority claim for much of hi...

 Join hosts J.D. Barker, Christine Daigle, Jena Brown, and Kevin Tumlinson as they discuss the week's entertainment news, including stories about a new fund for literary arts organizations, James Patterson's podcast, and how to read a book and feed a neighbor. Then, stick around for a chat with Orson Scott Card!Orson Scott Card is the author of the novels Ender's Game, Ender's Shadow, and Speaker for the Dead, which are widely read by adults and younger readers. His most recent series, the young adult Pathfinder series (Pathfinder, Ruins, Visitors), the fantasy Mithermages series (Lost Gate, Gate Thief, Gatefather) and the Side Step series (Wakers, Reawakening) are taking readers in new directions.Besides these and other science fiction novels, Card writes contemporary fantasy (Magic Street, Enchantment, Lost Boys), biblical novels (Stone Tables, Sarah), the American frontier fantasy series The Tales of Alvin Maker (beginning with Seventh Son), poetry (An Open Book), and many plays and scripts, including his "freshened" Shakespeare scripts for Romeo & Juliet, The Taming of the Shrew, and The Merchant of Venice.Card was born in Washington and grew up in California, Arizona, and Utah. He served a mission for the LDS Church in Brazil in the early 1970s. Card currently lives in Greensboro, North Carolina, with his wife, Kristine Allen Card. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 "I'm no longer scared to go to the temple after reading the Book of Mormon and knowing what it means... It is just been so many tender mercies since coming back, I'll never go back to that place I was before. I'll never let my family go back to that place before. And I know a hundred percent Heavenly Father put the Browns in Chloe's life knowing that that was how he was gonna get to me. And I know that prayer and priesthood is the biggest part of all that, and I'm so thankful."00:00 A Troubling Temple Experience09:23 Disconnect from the Church14:47 Reconnecting with My Father18:58 Chloe's Baptism and Its Impact28:53 Breaking Down and Seeking Help31:58 A Life-Changing Blessing41:20 Temple Work and Family ConnectionsCozy Earth code COMEBACK for 40% off https://cozyearth.com/Serve Clothing code COMEBACK for 15% offhttps://serveclothing.com/Memor Jewelry code COMEBACK for 10% offhttps://memorjewelry.com/If you have a story to share please contact ashly.comebackpodcast@gmail.comFor inquiries contact info.comebackpodcast@gmail.comCome Back Team:Director, Founder, & Host: Ashly StoneEditor: Cara ReedOutreach Manager: Jenna CarlsonAssistant Editor: Michelle BergerAssistant Editor: Britt SmallzeArt Director: Jeremy GarciaProduction Director: Trent Wardwell

We are back today with part 21 of our Joseph Smith Podcast series with Dr. John Turner, discussing his new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.In this episode, we explore one of the most fascinating and consequential moments in early Latter-day Saint history –the Kirtland Bank Scandal. Chapter 18 titled “Follies” (1836-1837), captures a turbulent period when Joseph SMith and the Saints in Kirtland, Ohio, faced financial ruin, internal dissent, and the unraveling of faith and community.We trace how the ambitious completion of the Kirtland Temple left the Saints deep in debt and how Joseph Smith's attempt to solve these financial woes through the creation of the Kirtland Safety Society Bank (or “anti” Bank) spiraled into one of the earliest crises of the Restoration. Against the backdrop of President ANdrew Jackson's anti-bank crusade and the Panic of 1837, the Saints' experiment with banking, prophecy, and faith would test their loyalty, their leadership, and their limits.The story unfolds through dramatic events: Joseph and Sidney hiding from sheriffs, treasure-digging expeditions to Salem in search of divine relief from debt, and the chaotic collapse of confidence in the unchartered “anti-bank.” We discuss how this episode intertwined religious revelation and financial desperation – and how it triggered what became the largest apostasy in early church history.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

Is Nahom really the strongest evidence for the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon? In this episode, we take a deep dive into noe of the most cited archaeological “proofs” of the Book of Mormon -the discovery of altars inscribed with the letters NHM in Yemen.John Dehlin and attorney and former clerk from the Idaho Supreme Court, Kolby Reddish examine what the text of the Book of Mormon actually says about Nahom, where it's supposed to be located, and whether the archaeological evidence matches up. Along the way, we look at how apologists, scholars, and critics have each interpreted this find -and what it really says about the historicity of the Book of Mormon.We also examine whether or not Joseph Smith could have known about Nahom (or Nehem) from maps or Biblical references, and how issues like confirmation bias and faith-based reasoning play into the debate.This conversation aims to be evidence-based, thoughtful, and respectful -seeking understanding amid polarization in the Mormon and ex-Mormon communities.___________________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

Legal Team, we're diving back into one of our most requested and popular topics: Mary Cosby's church. First, we're zooming out to explore the bigger picture of church-owned businesses, from the LDS Church's corporate holdings to Texas megachurches facing major financial lawsuits. Then we're tracing the origins of Mary's church, the empire her grandmother Rosemary built, and how former associate Annie Lois Johnson became entangled in legal drama with Mary and Robert Cosby. From the tangled web of businesses tied to her congregation to decades of lawsuits over forged signatures and missing money, this story has it all. Stay tuned for part two, where we'll break down the current lawsuit between Mary, Robert, and Annie Lois Johnson that's still unfolding. What's on the docket? The rise of church-owned businesses — and how megachurches like LDS, Gateway, and Second Baptist run their for-profit arms Why “church law” has become such a massive (and murky) legal field A refresher on Mary, Robert, and Rosemary Cosby's family and church history The decades-long feud with Annie Lois Johnson, involving forged deeds and disputed ownership Access additional content and our Patreon here: ⁠https://zez.am/thebravodocket⁠ The Bravo Docket podcast, the statements we make whether in our own media or elsewhere, and any content we post are for entertainment purposes only and do not provide legal advice. Any party consuming our information should consult a lawyer for legal advice. The podcast, our opinions, and our posts, are our own and are not associated with our employers, Bravo TV, or any other television network. Cesie is admitted to the State Bars of California and New York. Angela is admitted to the State Bars of Texas, Kansas, and Missouri. Thank you to our incredible sponsors! Graza: Head to Graza.co/DOCKET and use DOCKET to get 10% off your order and get cooking this holiday season with some fresh, delicious olive oil! Hers: Visit Forhers.com/bravodocket to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you. Ritual: My listeners get early access to their Black Friday sale for 40% off your first month at Ritual.com/DOCKET Quince: Go to Quince.com/DOCKET for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Rula: Visit Rula.com/bravodocket to get started. CBDFX: Get 40% off your first order with code BRAVODOCKET at cbdfx.com. Dupe: Go to Dupe.com today and find similar products for less. Monarch Money: Use code DOCKET at monarchmoney.com in your browser for half off your first year. Wayfair: Don't miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair's Black Friday deals for up to 70% off. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Mormon Stories, John and Margi Dehlin sit down with Sharon Beesley, a therapist, writer and former Mormon “mommy blogger,” to explore the evolution of her faith journey in Mormonism.Sharon was brought into the church as a child in Florida when her mother chose to convert. She discusses the warmth and community she found in her ward there, and the early testimonies that grounded her. Yet her story also weaves through deep loss with the death of her mother, and how that grief initially drew her closer to the Church.Sharon attended BYU, got married, and set out to live the ideal Mormon lifestyle. Their family ultimately ended up in New York city, where Sharon began to find relationships with people outside the church. With this move, her worldview began to shift as she encountered new ideas about faith, feminism, and authenticity.Topics Include:-Growing up Mormon in Florida-Coping with grief through faith-Marriage, motherhood, and mixed-faith relationshipsFeminismThis episode offers a gentle, wise, and grounding perspective for anyone navigating faith transitions, loss, or rediscovering joy beyond belief.___________________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

Willie Grills talks to Bryan Stecker on the podcast On The Line about the origins of Mormonism. Watch the full episode on YouTube  Visit our website - A Brief History of Power Thanks to our sponsor, Gnesio Health Pr. Willie Grills - Zion Lutheran Church Music thanks to Verny

Welcome to part 20 of our epic series on Dr. John G. Turner's landmark biography, “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”Things are really heating up as we enter the mid-1830s in the life of Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter-day Saint movement. This episode dives into one of the most controversial and debated episodes in early Mormon history –Joseph's relationship with Fanny Alger, a young woman employed in the Smith household in Kirtland, Ohio in 1836.Was it adultery? Was it an early form of plural marriage? Or was it something else entirely –a “scrape”?Join us for Part 1 of Chapter 18, where we unpack Turner's detailed treatment of this scandal, explore how it fractured relationships within the early church (especially between Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery), and trace how it shaped the theology of polygamy that would later emerge in Nauvoo.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

Sandra Tanner is back with us on LDS Discussions to conclude our conversation on three new church essays recently published by the LDS Church. In this episode, we'll finish our coverage of the essay on polygamy and move on to the final essay, which addresses the character of Joseph Smith.Topics include:-Joseph's failed prophecies-Joseph's treatment of Emma-Joseph's 21 criminal casesJoin us as we unpack these final issues and reflect on what they reveal about Joseph Smith and early church history.___________________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

Caroline Barrow was raised in a typical Mormon household in Louisiana. While she was a faithful believer in the Church, she always had questions about certain teachings but was often encouraged to halt her critical thinking on these issues. She chose to attend BYU and serve a Mormon mission, but continued to be plagued by questions—particularly around polygamy and the treatment of women in the LDS faith. Caroline also found herself struggling with scrupulosity, perfectionism, and the many pressures placed on women in the Church.Listen as she shares her story of how she confronted these questions and learned to trust herself and her instincts as an analytical woman within the Mormon faith.___________________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 part 19 of our deep-dive into Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet by Dr. John G. Turner, we explore the fascinating events surrounding the Kirtland Temple dedication (that took place in 1836) in Kirtland, Ohio.This episode focuses on Chapter 17, examining key developments in early Latter-day Saint ritual practice –including solemn assemblies, washings and anointings, the washing of feet, and even ritual cleansings (in cinnamon whiskey!). We also discuss internal church conflicts, prophetic authority, spiritual manifestations, and the powerful endowment promises given to early Church leaders.We also explore Joseph Smith's institutional genius, visions and heavenly visitations, Hebrew studies and the Adamic language, early temple worship and spiritual ecstacy, and controversies and personal reflections from John Turner's biography.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions