Tue, 10 August 2021
Is there a double standard at BYU when divvying out punishments to athletes vs students who break the honor code? Mormon Stories producer and co-host Carah Burrell takes the reins on this intense episode as lead interviewer of our guest Kelly Trust as we take a deep dive into answering that question! Finally feeling freed from the constraints that kept her quiet for too long, Kelly describes the confusing, unhealthy sexual messages around her body that plagued her youth, the relationship with a star BYU athlete that led to her expulsion from the school while the player stayed, and the faith crisis that ensued after reading the CES Letter. Content warning on this episode for strong sexual themes and profanity. We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate! Links and show notes: “Leaving the Saints” by Marth Beck: |
Tue, 3 August 2021
One of our most popular Mormon Stories guests is back with wonderfully salient advice for post-Mormon growth! Leah, along with her husband Cody and daughter Brinley, told their story to John during an epic multi-part Mormon Stories series on their faith transition and excommunication in 2019. In this episode, Leah shares seven lessons she’s learned while rebuilding a meaningful life for herself and her family. So many good takeaways in this episode! We hope you’ll find it valuable, share it, come back to it more than once during different life stages, and comment on what lessons you’ve learned along your journey as well. We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate! Links and show notes: Mormon Stories #1044: Leah, Cody, and Brinley Young - From Fear Into Joy (Part 1) Pt. 1: Mormon Stories #1098: The Excommunication of Leah and Cody Young Pt. 1: Balanced Living with Leah website: The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma: Email Leah: balancedlivingwithleah@gmail.com
Direct download: MormonStories-1458-LeahYoungLessons-leveled.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:12pm MST |
Mon, 2 August 2021
Our guest today is Brinley Young, daughter of Leah and Cody young, a family famous for telling their story to John during an epic multi-part Mormon Stories series on their faith transition and excommunication back in 2019 when Brinley was just 15 years old. Now 18, post-faith crisis, and with wisdom beyond her years, Brinley joins John and Margi in studio for 7 lessons she’s learned after leaving the church on topics ranging from communication, owning her sexuality, and following her intuition. This is a special one you won’t want to miss! We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate! Links and show notes: Mormon Stories 1044: Leah, Cody, and Brinley Young - From Fear Into Joy (Part 1) Pt. 1 Mormon Stories 1098: The Excommunication of Leah and Cody Young Pt. 1 Mormon Stories 1048: Leah, Cody, and Brinley Young - A Teen's Perspective on Faith Transition Pt. 1 |
Tue, 20 July 2021
Please join us as three Native American women, Sarah, Ann, and Monika who were raised in the Mormon church, discuss the following: - What they were taught about the "Lamanite doctrine" as Native American Mormon women. We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate! Links and show notes:
Direct download: MormonStories-1456-Native_American_Mormon_Women_and_the_Lamanite_Myth.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:29pm MST |
Tue, 20 July 2021
Join our panel as we discuss the question: Will Mormons Get Their Own Planets? Featuring Jaxon Washburn, Nemo the Mormon, John Dehlin, and Carah Burrell. We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate! Links and show notes: Nemo the Mormon YouTube channel
Direct download: MormonStories-1455-Will_Mormons_Get_Their_Own_Planets.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:37pm MST |
Tue, 20 July 2021
Trigger warning for our viewers as we bring you a special short episode on this under-covered topic. In a follow-up to our Mormon Stories interview with Kelceymarie, we go further in-depth on the issue of self-harm. How to view it, understand it, and find help. Kelceymarie Warner is a mental health advocate and graduate student getting her second masters in clinical mental health counseling. Kelceymarie has connected with hundreds of thousands through her books, journals, and TikTok by opening up about her struggles with depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal thoughts, and eating disorders. We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate! Links and show notes: Kelceymarie’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelceymariewarner?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelceymariewarnertiktok/ Kelceymarie’s Linktree to resources, book, etsy, etc: https://linktr.ee/kelcemariewarner "The Sparrow’s Box” Site: https://www.thesparrowsbox.com/shop |
Tue, 20 July 2021
A strong trigger warning leads off this important interview, but we hope you’ll be able to join us as we hear from mental health advocate Kelceymarie Warner. As a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling, Kelceymarie has connected with hundreds of thousands through her books, journals, and TikTok by opening up about her struggles with depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal thoughts, and eating disorders. Converting to the church as a teen, Kelceymarie found peace from her dysfunctional home life by attending church. We discuss the pros and cons of Mormonism in her life, the control and abuse that lead to the end of her temple marriage, and advice for those struggling hard to overcome life’s challenges who’ve turned to self-harm as a coping mechanism. This is a special one! Show notes:
Direct download: MormonStories-1453-KelceymarieWarner.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:43am MST |
Thu, 15 July 2021
Warren Driggs is a part-time attorney and author of several books including “Mormon Boy: A Memoir” and “Swimming in Deep Water, A Novel of Joseph Smith”. In this delightful interview, we sit down with Warren and his wife Cindy as they take us through the different fascinating ways their families raised them in Salt Lake City ranging from orthodox Mormons to casual, but intellectual, members of the church. Listen along as they share their hilarious stories, impart beautiful insights, and the lessons they learned raising moral children after leaving the religion they loved in the heart of Mormon Mecca. Show notes: “Mormon Boy: A Memoir” by Warren Driggs https://www.amazon.com/Mormon-Boy-Memoir-Warren-Driggs/dp/0998779547 “Swimming in Deep Water, A Novel of Joseph Smith” by Warren Driggs https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0779G53GP/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i2 “A Tortoise in the Road” by Warren Driggs https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XPV5MDC/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i1 “Old Scratch” by Warren Driggs https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y5YMLF5/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i3 “No Man Knows My History” by Fawn Brodie https://www.amazon.com/No-Man-Knows-My-History/dp/0679730540/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=no+man+knows+my+history&qid=1626237620&sr=8-1
Direct download: MormonStories-1452-Warren_and_Cindy_Driggs.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:53pm MST |
Tue, 13 July 2021
Today we are excited to sit down with legend, John Larsen. After ending his wildly popular Mormon Expression podcast, having John in studio is an honor as we steep in his humor and knowledge. We hit on some of our favorite important topics like the “curse of Cain'' while also bouncing around in the absurdity of Big Foot. You will laugh, you might cry, but you will absolutely not be disappointed in this episode! Content warning: PG-13 rating for profanity Show notes: Mormon Expression: How to Build a Transoceanic Vessel -MP3: http://johnlarsen.org/podcast/Archive/MormonExpression276.mp3 "An Enemy Hath Done This" by Ezra Taft Benson: https://www.amazon.com/Enemy-Hath-Done-This/dp/0884941841 "The Church & The Negro - A Discussion of Mormons, Negros and the Priesthood" by John Bezos: https://www.amazon.com/CHURCH-NEGRO-Discussion-Mormons-Priesthood/dp/B000W1N72K |
Thu, 8 July 2021
Join us today as we continue with part two of our interview with an awesome mother and daughter duo, Linda and Savannah Clyde. Growing up in a mixed-faith Mormon home, Linda worked through the resentment she felt towards her father’s lack of belief in the church with beautiful results. Linda’s talents as a writer eventually landed her a job at LDS church headquarters in the marketing department where she was instrumental in assisting the church soften it’s tone and messaging. Hearing her talk about the inner workings of the church is fascinating stuff to say the least! Once an extremely faithful teenager, Linda’s daughter Savannah’s curious spirit led her to dig deeper into the narrative of the church and become a new kind of pioneer for her Mormon family. Listen along as they describe their journey to understanding one another, their non-Mormon loved ones, and the beauty that can come from embracing non-conformity as a family in Utah county. |
Wed, 7 July 2021
Today we’re premiering part one of our epic interview with an awesome mother and daughter duo, Linda and Savannah Clyde. Growing up in a mixed-faith Mormon home, Linda worked through the resentment she felt towards her father’s lack of belief in the church with beautiful results. Linda’s talents as a writer eventually landed her a job at LDS church headquarters in the marketing department where she was instrumental in assisting the church soften it’s tone and messaging. Hearing her talk about the inner workings of the church is fascinating stuff to say the least! Once an extremely faithful teenager, Linda’s daughter Savannah’s curious spirit led her to dig deeper into the narrative of the church and become a new kind of pioneer for her Mormon family. Listen along as they describe their journey to understanding one another, their non-Mormon loved ones, and the beauty that can come from embracing non-conformity as a family in Utah county. |
Tue, 6 July 2021
In September of 2020, professional Mormon apologists Terryl and Fiona Givens were invited to speak at a Mormon church fireside for the Sunderland England Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During this fireside Terryl Givens was asked to recount an experience he once had with a Mormon missionary woman who was doubting her testimony because of troubling things she learned about Mormon church founder Joseph Smith, Terryl's recounting of the story was as follows: "I was fortunate that there was a mission president in our area who knew us and our work. And there was a sister missionary who decided that she was going to leave the church. She was finishing her mission the next week and she'd made the decision to go home and leave. And her companion of course deeply distraught over this and asked the mission president "Could we go talk to brother Givens?" And he gave them permission to come and stay as long as they needed so they stayed long into the night. And I listened to one after another question and then finally it occurred to me to ask this one question. And I said to her in regard to one question in particular about Joseph Smith, and I said "Sister" I said, "Why does the answer to that question matter?" And it changed everything. It just caught her up short. And she thought for a minute and she said, "I don't know" (Terryl chuckles). "I don't know." Many (including myself) were disturbed by Terryl Givens' story/response - particularly since it was directed at currently doubting Mormon church members. We were primarily puzzled, shocked, and somewhat disturbed that the Mormon church's leading professional apologist - who has spent many years writing books for, and speaking/ministering to doubting Mormons - would provide such a glib and seemingly uninformed response. That said, we understand that belief issues are complex, and take Terryl at his word that he sincerely does not understand why troubling aspects of Mormon history, including newly-discovered details about Joseph Smith's life, would matter to a questioning or doubting Mormon. Consequently, I am launching a new social media campaign with which I could use your help. The goal of the campaign is to help educate Terryl, Fiona, other Mormon Church apologists, and the Mormon church leadership about as to why "Informed Consent" is crucial to both active Mormons and Mormon investigators. |
Fri, 2 July 2021
Luna Corbden is the author of "Recovering Agency - Lifting the Veil of Mormon Mind Control." In this multi-part Mormon Stories Podcast series, Lindsey employs the tools of social psychology to identify ways in which the Mormon church uses various coercive techniques often associated with high demand religions (also referred to as cults). Throughout the series we will be asking, "In what ways does the Mormon church behave in ways similar to other high demand religions (or cults), and what can it do to become less cult-like?" The primary goal of this series is to help people raised within the Mormon Church unpack and separate their own identity from church doctrine and policies. In their book. Luna explores 31 different mind control techniques used by high demand religions generally, and by the Mormon church specifically.. In Part 5, we will cover the final set of methods (of the 31 in total): Indirect Directives, Identification & Example, Induced Phobias, Trace Induction & Dissociative States, Euphoria Induction, and Proselytizing. -------- Luna Corbden (who also writes as Luna Lindsey) was born into the LDS Church and left the faith in 2001, at age 26. They now live in Washington state and write about topics of interest to them, including psychology, mind control, culture, and autism. They also write science fiction and fantasy novels, and write short stories for speculative fiction publications like the Journal of Unlikely Entomology, Crossed Genres, and the Recognize Fascism anthology. When they're not busy traveling to improbable worlds, they're thinking hard about this improbable world. Luna's book can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/Recovering-Agency-Lifting-Mormon-Control/dp/1489595937 Show Notes:
————— We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate and keep this content coming! Click here to donate monthly: $10 $25 $50 —————
Contact Us! *PO Box 171085 Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Direct download: MormonStories-1447-RecoveringAgencyPt5.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:17am MST |
Thu, 1 July 2021
Luna Corbden is the author of "Recovering Agency - Lifting the Veil of Mormon Mind Control." In this multi-part Mormon Stories Podcast series, Lindsey employs the tools of social psychology to identify ways in which the Mormon church uses various coercive techniques often associated with high demand religions (also referred to as cults). Throughout the series we will be asking, "In what ways does the Mormon church behave in ways similar to other high demand religions (or cults), and what can it do to become less cult-like?" The primary goal of this series is to help people raised within the Mormon Church unpack and separate their own identity from church doctrine and policies. In their book. Luna explores 31 different mind control techniques used by high demand religions generally, and by the Mormon church specifically. In Part 4, we will cover the 4rd set of methods (of the 31 in total): Dispensing of Existence, Social Pressure, Elitism, Us-vs-Them Thinking, Double-Bind, and Confession. -------- Luna Corbden (who also writes as Luna Lindsey) was born into the LDS Church and left the faith in 2001, at age 26. They now live in Washington state and write about topics of interest to them, including psychology, mind control, culture, and autism. They also write science fiction and fantasy novels, and write short stories for speculative fiction publications like the Journal of Unlikely Entomology, Crossed Genres, and the Recognize Fascism anthology. When they're not busy traveling to improbable worlds, they're thinking hard about this improbable world. Luna's book can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/Recovering-Agency.../dp/1489595937 Show Notes:
————— We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate and keep this content coming! Click here to donate monthly: $10 $25 $50 —————
Contact Us! *PO Box 171085 Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Direct download: MormonStories-1446-RecoveringAgencyPt4.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:16am MST |
Wed, 30 June 2021
Luna Corbden is the author of "Recovering Agency - Lifting the Veil of Mormon Mind Control." In this multi-part Mormon Stories Podcast series, Lindsey employs the tools of social psychology to identify ways in which the Mormon church uses various coercive techniques often associated with high demand religions (also referred to as cults). Throughout the series we will be asking, "In what ways does the Mormon church behave in ways similar to other high demand religions (or cults), and what can it do to become less cult-like?" The primary goal of this series is to help people raised within the Mormon Church unpack and separate their own identity from church doctrine and policies. In their book. Luna explores 31 different mind control techniques used by high demand religions generally, and by the Mormon church specifically. In Part 3, we will cover the 3rd set of methods (of the 31 in total): Mystical Manipulation, Milieu Control, Loading the Language, Totalist Reframing, Thought-Terminating Cliches, and Time Control. -------- Luna Corbden (who also writes as Luna Lindsey) was born into the LDS Church and left the faith in 2001, at age 26. They now live in Washington state and write about topics of interest to them, including psychology, mind control, culture, and autism. They also write science fiction and fantasy novels, and write short stories for speculative fiction publications like the Journal of Unlikely Entomology, Crossed Genres, and the Recognize Fascism anthology. When they're not busy traveling to improbable worlds, they're thinking hard about this improbable world. Luna's book can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/Recovering-Agency-Lifting-Mormon-Control/dp/1489595937 Show Notes:
————— We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate and keep this content coming! Click here to donate monthly: $10 $25 $50 —————
Contact Us! *PO Box 171085 Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Direct download: MormonStories-1445-RecoveringAgencyPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:16am MST |
Tue, 29 June 2021
Luna Lindsey Corbden is the author of "Recovering Agency - Lifting the Veil of Mormon Mind Control." In this multi-part Mormon Stories Podcast series, Lindsey employs the tools of social psychology to identify ways in which the Mormon church uses various coercive techniques often associated with high demand religions (also referred to as cults). Throughout the series we will be asking, "In what ways does the Mormon church behave in ways similar to other high demand religions (or cults), and what can it do to become less cult-like?" The primary goal of this series is to help people raised within the Mormon Church unpack and separate their own identity from church doctrine and policies. In their book. Luna explores 31 different mind control techniques used by high demand religions generally, and by the Mormon church specifically. In Part 2, we will cover the 2nd set of methods (of the 31 in total): Love Bombing, Destabilization, Deception, Belief Follows Behavior, Public Commitment, Creating Dependency, and Emotion Over Intellect. -------- Luna Corbden (who also writes as Luna Lindsey) was born into the LDS Church and left the faith in 2001, at age 26. They now live in Washington state and write about topics of interest to them, including psychology, mind control, culture, and autism. They also write science fiction and fantasy novels, and write short stories for speculative fiction publications like the Journal of Unlikely Entomology, Crossed Genres, and the Recognize Fascism anthology. When they're not busy traveling to improbable worlds, they're thinking hard about this improbable world. Luna's book can be found here. Show Notes:
————— We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate and keep this content coming! Click here to donate monthly: $10 $25 $50 —————
Contact Us! *PO Box 171085 Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Direct download: MormonStories-1444-RecoveringAgencyPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:00am MST |
Mon, 28 June 2021
Recovering Agency - Examining Mormon Mind Control Pt. 1 (with Luna Lindsey Corbden) Luna Lindsey Corbden is the author of "Recovering Agency - Lifting the Veil of Mormon Mind Control." In this multi-part Mormon Stories Podcast series, Lindsey employs the tools of social psychology to identify ways in which the Mormon church uses various coercive techniques often associated with high demand religions (also referred to as cults). Throughout the series we will be asking, "In what ways does the Mormon church behave in ways similar to other high demand religions (or cults), and what can it do to become less cult-like?" The primary goal of this series is to help people raised within the Mormon Church unpack and separate their own identity from church doctrine and policies. In their book. Luna explores 31 different mind control techniques used by high demand religions generally, and by the Mormon church specifically. In Part 1, we explore the basics of how cognitive dissonance works, and we will cover the first six methods (of the 31 in total): Sacred Sciene, Demand for Purity, Doctrine Over Self, Black & White Thinking, Blame Reversal, and Guilt & Shame. And, if you have not already, tune in to my most recent livestream (episode number 1442) for an introduction to this fascinating series! -------- Luna Corbden (who also writes as Luna Lindsey) was born into the LDS Church and left the faith in 2001, at age 26. They now live in Washington state and write about topics of interest to them, including psychology, mind control, culture, and autism. They also write science fiction and fantasy novels, and write short stories for speculative fiction publications like the Journal of Unlikely Entomology, Crossed Genres, and the Recognize Fascism anthology. When they're not busy traveling to improbable worlds, they're thinking hard about this improbable world. Luna's book can be found here: https://recoveringagency.com Show Notes:
————— We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate and keep this content coming! Click here to donate monthly: $10 $25 $50 —————
Contact Us! *PO Box 171085 Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Direct download: MormonStories-1443-RecoveringAgencyPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:05am MST |
Sat, 26 June 2021
In cooperation with author Luna Lindsey Corbden (Recovering Agency) and Youtuber Jonathan Streeter (Thoughts on Things and Stuff), I have developed a short self assessment to help people:
This self assessment should take no longer than 30 minutes to complete. A PDF of the assessment can be found here. We also highly encourage you to learn and study these principles to avoid being taken advantage of by unhealthy individuals and organization (including family members, businesses, corporations, governments, etc) . Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, please check out our in-depth, 17+ hour exploration of the book "Recovering Agency: Lifting the Veil of Mormon Mind Control" with author Luna Lindsey Corbden on Mormon Stories Podcast. These episodes will be released starting Monday, June 28th.
Direct download: MormonStories-1442-WasIRaisedInACult.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:47pm MST |
Thu, 24 June 2021
This week we celebrate the birthday of faithful Mormon historian and scholar Richard Bushman – author of Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling, and former Mormon church stake president and patriarch. Some of you will remember that I had the privilege of interviewing Richard back in 2007. Most of you probably don’t know that Richard agreed to discuss 10 topics on the series, but quit the interview after only addressing 3 of the 10 topics, which was very disappointing to me at the time. But of course that was his prerogative. Since our original interview, Richard has declined to appear on Mormon Stories Podcast again – especially after my excommunication from the Mormon Church in 2015. Still, there are many questions that I would like to ask Richard (or any believing Mormon scholar), if he (they) would allow it. Unfortunately most faithful Mormon scholars avoid any forums where they are asked candid, difficult questions. This is not their fault, of course. It’s the price of doing business with a church that silences and punishes its truth-tellers. Consequently, I am recording a personal episode where I go ahead and ask the questions I’ve been wanting to ask Richard, along with expressing a few concerns with some of Richard’s public statements over the years. I hope you enjoy! If you enjoy this episode, I may do something similar a few other faithful scholars/historians/apologists.
Direct download: MormonStories-1441-QuestionsForRichardBushman.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:08pm MST |
Thu, 17 June 2021
Join us for Part 2 of our interview with Gerardo who is a dear friend of the podcast! Growing up in an orthodox Mormon home, his story gives a unique perspective on the church in Mexico and the “Laminate ancestry” that plays into the testimony of many of the members in Latin America. After realizing his attraction to men in his youth, Gerardo worked to keep up with expectations as the son of a prominent LDS family hoping God would “turn his weakness into strengths.” Through stories about Evergreen, conversion therapy, Mexican EFY, and serving a faithful mission, we hear how strongly Gerardo tried to pursue the covenant path and deny his gay identity. Gerardo went to BYU-I where he met his husband, a wild story filled with intense highs and lows. Eventually questioning his faith, losing his connection to being a descendant of the Laminates and working through disagreements with LDS family, Gerardo put his whole heart out there in this interview. Listen along for some life-changing insights from Gerardo on this epic episode of a Mexican Mormon Story! |
Thu, 17 June 2021
Join us for Part 1 of our interview with Gerardo who is a dear friend of the podcast! Growing up in an orthodox Mormon home, his story gives a unique perspective on the church in Mexico and the “Lamanite ancestry” that plays into the testimony of many of the members in Latin America. After realizing his attraction to men in his youth, Gerardo worked to keep up with expectations as the son of a prominent LDS family hoping God would “turn his weakness into strengths.” Through stories about Evergreen, conversion therapy, Mexican EFY, and serving a faithful mission, we hear how strongly Gerardo tried to pursue the covenant path and deny his gay identity. Gerardo went to BYU-I where he met his husband, a wild story filled with intense highs and lows. Eventually questioning his faith, losing his connection to being a descendant of the Lamanites and working through disagreements with LDS family, Gerardo put his whole heart out there in this interview. Listen along for some life-changing insights from Gerardo on this epic episode of a Mexican Mormon Story! |
Wed, 9 June 2021
Kelly and Kayla Mikesell are a dynamic step-mother/daughter pair. Only recently did Kelly start to investigate the troubling issues with Mormon history that had been eating away at her children. In an effort to learn, love, and empathize with her children, she investigated the church and grew in ways that surprised her and her family. As Kelly chose love and understanding over dogma and compliance, she was able to open her heart to the members of her family in the LGBTQ community, including her step-daughter Kayla. Teenage years filled with the unimaginable amounts of shame and guilt, Kayla was able to grow into her own independent, confident adult, even winning Miss Salt Lake City and making her platform one of advocacy for the Utah Pride Center. We are honored to interview two thoughtful, articulate women putting a lot on the line to speak out while Kelly’s husband still currently serves as her bishop! Warning: This episode contains discussions of self-harm. Show Notes:
Direct download: MormonStories-1438-KellyKaylaMikesell.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:45am MST |
Fri, 4 June 2021
Happy Utah Pride Week everyone! To celebrate Utah Pride week, I am sharing one of the most important interviews in the history of Mormon Stories Podcast. It is the story of Kyle Ashworth - a dear, brilliant, talented friend, and the host of Latter Gay Stories podcast. This interview is important for at least 3 reasons:
Join us today to hear the conclusion of Kyle's truly inspiring story. Please watch and enjoy, and please spread the word!!! |
Thu, 3 June 2021
Happy Utah Pride Week everyone! To celebrate Utah Pride week, I am sharing one of the most important interviews in the history of Mormon Stories Podcast. It is the story of Kyle Ashworth – a dear, brilliant, talented friend, and the host of Latter Gay Stories podcast. This interview is important for at least 3 reasons:
Today we will show Part 1 of the interview, and tomorrow we will share Part 2. Please watch and enjoy, and please spread the word!!! |
Tue, 1 June 2021
Every year I try to provide donors and listeners with a "State of the Union" address for the Open Stories Foundation (the 501c3 non-profit that I lead which houses Mormon Stories Podcast), along with the overall success of Mormon Stories Podcast and the other OSF podcasts (Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis Podcast, A Thoughtful Faith Podcast, and Mormon Mental Health Podcast). The topics for today will be:
Direct download: MormonStories-1435-OSF2021StateoftheUnion.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:56am MST |
Thu, 27 May 2021
After converting to Mormonism as a teen and attending BYU, Haleigh Evert’s relationship with the Mormon church grew unfulfilling and complicated. After leaving the church for a time, Haleigh came back to the Mormon church, married in the temple, and started making videos and writing about her Mormon journey. Haleigh eventually published the book “Why I Left the Mormon Church and Came Back,” which is still sold at Deseret Book today. Then, after years of promoting and defending the Mormon church, Haleigh read the CES Letter for the first time (just a month and a half ago). In this episode we discuss Haleigh's conversion, her reach on social media as a Mormon influencer, and her life now after reading the CES letter. Show Notes:
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Tue, 25 May 2021
Despite a happy facade, Lexi struggled with anxiety and perfectionism as many young LDS people do. Subjected to the lessons specifically directed towards LDS teen girls hyper-focusing on modesty and sexual purity along with the belief that LDS men who serve missions were always trustworthy, Lexi blames herself when she is assaulted as a teen by a returned missionary. This turns into hyper-vigilance as a newlywed and mother, even going as far as to use a marker to “censor” cleavage on cartoon characters on a family board game! Things started to unravel for Lexi when a trusted Bishop is arrested for sexually assaulting minors in her ward and when a close friend starts questioning the Church. Hoping to help her friend and shore up her own shaken testimony, Lexi starts researching LDS Church history and truth claims with devastating results. An early conversation with her father during this time wakes Lexi up to the harm silence causes and gives her the courage to start speaking out and speaking up. Find Lexi on Social Media: Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:
Our Platforms:Contact us:PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: |
Thu, 20 May 2021
Today I am honored to share the story of Drew Manning - author, TV star, and founder of the viral brand, "Fit2Fat2Fit." Join us as we continue with Part 2 of Drew's Mormon story, which will cover:
Show Notes:
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Thu, 20 May 2021
Today I am honored to share the story of Drew Manning - author, TV star, and founder of the viral brand, "Fit2Fat2Fit." In part 1 of Drew's story, we will discuss, among other things:
Show notes:
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Tue, 18 May 2021
Join me today for this truly inspiring interview with Lance Allred, the grandson of Rulon C. Allred - the prophet of a fundamentalist polygamous sect called the “Apostolic United Brethren." In addition to this, Lance is the first legally-deaf player in NBA history, an inspirational speaker (including a highly successful TedX presentation, "What is Your Polygamy?"), and celebrated author of six books, including his most recent publication, “The New Alpha Male: How to Win the Game When the Rules are Changing.” Join along as we discuss the concepts of misogyny, toxic masculinity, how they function within religions, and how we can begin to combat and "unlearn" these unhealthy habits. More books by Lance Allred: |
Mon, 17 May 2021
JT & Lady Cee were raised as Jehovah’s Witnesses from the age of five years old. Lady Cee was a regular pioneer and went to serve where the need is great with her pioneer partners. JT served at Brooklyn Bethel and was an elder in the local congregation. After spending a combined 60 years of Watchtower indoctrination, they discovered that something was seriously wrong with the 1914 teaching. This led them to doing more research and after reading Crisis of Conscience by former Governing Body Member Raymond Franz, they faded from the organization. JT & Lady Cee realize the importance of giving back to help those they left behind. Therefore, in 2013, they began hosting the Critical Thought podcast on the EXJW Critical Thinker YouTube channel. Their decision to join their voice with the community of other Ex-JW activists is resulting in many happy endings as individuals begin waking up and learning the real truth about “The Truth.” Learn more about them on their website and other social media outlets. |
Tue, 11 May 2021
In this four-part episode, Trevor Haugen shares with us a recording of his conversation with LDS General Authority Don R. Clarke and LDS church historian Dr. Matthew J. Grow as they attempt to address his mounting concerns with deeply troubling Mormon history and doctrine. Part 1: Trevor discusses his life as an orthodox Mormon believer, including his mission service and temple marriages. Part 2: An audio recording of the meeting between Mormon General Authority Elder Don R. Clarke, LDS Church Historian Dr. Matthew J. Grow, and Trevor Haugen. Parts 3 & 4: A panel including Lindsay Hansen Park, John Hamer, and Glenn Ostlund, moderated by Dr. John Dehlin, discusses the audio recording, and particularly analyzes the apologetics offered by Elder Clarke and Dr. Matthew Grow.
Direct download: MormonStories-714-ClarkeGrowHaugenPt4.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:04pm MST |
Tue, 11 May 2021
In this four-part episode, Trevor Haugen shares with us a recording of his conversation with LDS General Authority Don R. Clarke and LDS church historian Dr. Matthew J. Grow as they attempt to address his mounting concerns with deeply troubling Mormon history and doctrine. Part 1: Trevor discusses his life as an orthodox Mormon believer, including his mission service and temple marriages. Part 2: An audio recording of the meeting between Mormon General Authority Elder Don R. Clarke, LDS Church Historian Dr. Matthew J. Grow, and Trevor Haugen. Parts 3 & 4: A panel including Lindsay Hansen Park, John Hamer, and Glenn Ostlund, moderated by Dr. John Dehlin, discusses the audio recording, and particularly analyzes the apologetics offered by Elder Clarke and Dr. Matthew Grow.
Direct download: MormonStories-713-ClarkeGrowHaugenPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:04pm MST |
Tue, 11 May 2021
In this four-part episode, Trevor Haugen shares with us a recording of his conversation with LDS General Authority Don R. Clarke and LDS church historian Dr. Matthew J. Grow as they attempt to address his mounting concerns with deeply troubling Mormon history and doctrine. Part 1: Trevor discusses his life as an orthodox Mormon believer, including his mission service and temple marriages. Part 2: An audio recording of the meeting between Mormon General Authority Elder Don R. Clarke, LDS Church Historian Dr. Matthew J. Grow, and Trevor Haugen. Parts 3 & 4: A panel including Lindsay Hansen Park, John Hamer, and Glenn Ostlund, moderated by Dr. John Dehlin, discusses the audio recording, and particularly analyzes the apologetics offered by Elder Clarke and Dr. Matthew Grow.
Direct download: MormonStories-712-ClarkeGrowHaugenPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:00pm MST |
Tue, 11 May 2021
JT & Lady Cee were raised as Jehovah’s Witnesses from the age of five years old. Lady Cee was a regular pioneer and went to serve where the need is great with her pioneer partners. JT served at Brooklyn Bethel and was an elder in the local congregation. After spending a combined 60 years of Watchtower indoctrination, they discovered that something was seriously wrong with the 1914 teaching. This led them to doing more research and after reading Crisis of Conscience by former Governing Body Member Raymond Franz, they faded from the organization. JT & Lady Cee realize the importance of giving back to help those they left behind. Therefore, in 2013, they began hosting the Critical Thought podcast on the EXJW Critical Thinker YouTube channel. Their decision to join their voice with the community of other Ex-JW activists is resulting in many happy endings as individuals begin waking up and learning the real truth about “The Truth.” Learn more about them on their website and other social media outlets.
Direct download: MormonStories-1428-LeavingJehovahsWitnesses.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:09am MST |
Fri, 7 May 2021
Join me today as I sit down with a living legend, Rod Decker, who has gained great prominence in Utah over the past 50 years as a journalist, columnist, and reporter for KUTV Channel 2 news. An observer of Utah politics from an early age, Decker has a truly unique perspective on Utah culture, faith, and politics, and I could not be more honored to have him as a guest on Mormon Stories Podcast. Rod Decker's most recent publication, "Utah Politics: The Elephant in the Room" can be purchased here.
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Tue, 4 May 2021
Marriage, Family, & Sex therapist, Natasha Helfer, hosts this special edition of Mormon Stories Podcast with John & Margi Dehlin, as they discuss the aftermath of Natasha's trial for apostasy and excommunication from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Direct download: MormonStories-1426-NatashaHelferDebreif.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:43pm MST |
Wed, 28 April 2021
Join us now for Part 3 of what many are calling a truly groundbreaking Mormon Stories Podcast series - my interview with teen convert, former All-American athlete, and former Mormon seminary teacher and CES employee Marc Oslund. In today's episode Marc shares with us:
You will not regret the length and depth of this interview. |
Tue, 27 April 2021
Join us today as we continue with part two of our three-part interview with former baseball player and LDS seminary teacher, Marc Oslund. Fascinating for so many reasons, I believe this is one of the most important Mormon Stories Podcast episodes I've ever released.
In part 2 of his story, we will hear about Marc's experience working for the Church Educational System as a seminary teacher, his attempts to be open with students about church doctrines, and why he eventually began to question the leadership of the LDS church - all while working within the CES program. |
Mon, 26 April 2021
Join us today as we kick off our three-part interview with former baseball player and LDS seminary teacher, Marc Oslund. Fascinating for so many reasons, I believe this is one of the most important Mormon Stories Podcast episodes I've ever released.
In part 1 of this incredible story, Marc talks about his upbringing in LA, his conversion to Mormonism, and why he gave up multiple opportunities to play major-league baseball in order to pursue a career in the Church Education System. This is a long one...probably deserves its own podcast...but it's really, really important. I hope you enjoy. |
Mon, 26 April 2021
As the COVID pandemic begins to slow in Spring of 2021, we are seeing a surge in vocal Mormon church members being summoned to disciplinary councils for excommunication on the charges of apostasy. Last week Natasha Helfer was excommunicated from the Mormon church for nothing less than advocating for ethical mental health and sexuality. Today we interview Neesha and Kyle Brost, who were recently threatened with excommunication by their Mormon leaders for posting videos to their very popular TikTok channel. This is Neesha and Kyle's Mormon Story |
Mon, 19 April 2021
Join us as we talk to Shannon Flynn, who was an associate of bomber and forger Mark Hofmann, as well as a major figure in the new Netflix documentary "Murder Among the Mormons." |
Wed, 14 April 2021
Please join us now as we interview Marriage and Sex therapist Natasha Helfer as she discusses her pending Mormon disciplinary council for apostasy. Natasha Helfer's membership council is taking place on April 18th at 7:30 pm central time zone. How you can support Natasha:
Contact information:
Event taking place at the Derby, Kansas Stake.
Direct download: MormonStories-1420-NatashaParkerTrial.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:17pm MST |
Wed, 14 April 2021
Today we have Shannon Flynn and Tonya and Scott Reiter in studio to remember the life of their friend, Lyn Jacob’s, associate of Mormon forger and bomber Mark Hofmann.
Direct download: MormonStories-1419-RememberingLynJacobs.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:20am MST |
Mon, 12 April 2021
Returning Mormon Stories Podcast guest, Roger Hendrix, is a former LDS Bishop, Mission President, and CES director, and was also called by Gorden B. Hinkley as a Trustee for the Deseret Trust Company for 18 years. And as if that weren't enough, Roger also worked as a business Management Consultant for 35 years, and did a syndicated daily radio commentary on social, political, and economic trends for nine years. Join Roger and myself today as we provide an analysis of the LDS church as a multi-billion-dollar corporation, and discuss "the future of Mormonism" - as Roger sees it. Books by Roger Hendrix:
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Wed, 7 April 2021
For as long as the Mormon Internet has existed, Ex-Mormon women have been expressing concerns about abusive behavior by Ex-Mormon men. Today a panel of Ex-Mormon women come together on Mormon Stories Podcast to introduce athe following six concepts: 1) Consent, 2) Deference to Patriarchy, 3) Gender Roles, 4) Modesty, 5) Sex Shaming, and 6) Victim Blaming. The intent of this episode is to help educate Ex-Mormon men about how to treat Ex-Mormon women, particularly online and in Ex-Mormon communities. Participants in the panel are: Hannah Dunnigan, Sarah Hess, Margaret Frances Phillips, and Elisha Lee.
Direct download: MormonStories-1417-UnlearningMisogyny.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:16am MST |
Tue, 6 April 2021
Since Title IX passed in 1972 to prevent sex discrimination under any education program receiving Federal financial assistance, the religious exemption clause has gone virtually unchaellenched. For decades, the Department of Educations has granted Title IX exemptions allowing dozens of religious colleges like BYU and Liberty University to discriminate based on sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation, even when they receive millions of taxpayer dollars every single year. Join us today at 4:00 pm MT as we interview attorney Paul Southwick, Chandler Horning (BYU) and Luke Wilson (Liberty University), about their groundbreaking class action lawsuit filed against the Department of Education. Chandler and Luke are among 33 former and current students from different federally-funded religious colleges who have been harmed by their discriminatory policies. The lawsuit argues that the Title IX religious exemptions “as applied to sexual and gender minority students, is unconstitutional and that the Department must enforce the protections of Title IX at all taxpayer-funded educational institutions, including at those institutions that discriminate and cause harm on the basis of sincerely held religious beliefs.”
Direct download: MormonStories-1416-ReligiousCollegesLawSuit.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:57am MST |
Mon, 5 April 2021
Join me today as I interview Carah Burrell (TikTok's "Nuancehoe") who has quickly became one of the most notable (and hilarious) ex-Mormons on social media right now! In addition to her great success on TikTok, Carah also has a very interesting Mormon story - from her unique upbringing in the church, to her experiences navigating the LA comedy scene with her husband, as a young mormon couple. Carah also had the opportunity to work for the LDS church's public relations department, which has further added to her interesting perspective on the Mormon church. You can check out some of Carah's work here: |
Thu, 1 April 2021
Join me today as I interview Salt Lake City lawyer, Mark Naugle, who developed the website QuitMormon.com - which aims to give former Mormons a more streamlined way to resign their membership from the LDS church, without the need to meet with a church authority figure. Since 2015, Mark has filed over 80,000 legal resignation letters with the LDS church. However, in response to his website, the church recently changed the terms to now require a notarized letter in order to apply for resignation. Listen along to hear Mark's personal story, how QuitMormon.com came to be, and what he is doing now to continually challenge the LDS church on this issue. |
Tue, 30 March 2021
Today's epic two-part Mormon stories interview with Matthew and Elizabeth explores all of these questions, and much, much more. Buckle in for a 7+ hour in-depth interview. I promise you that you will not be disappointed with these two strong, vulnerable, inspiring humans. |
Mon, 29 March 2021
Today's epic two-part Mormon stories interview with Matthew and Elizabeth explores all of these questions, and much, much more. Buckle in for a 7+ hour in-depth interview. I promise you that you will not be disappointed with these two strong, vulnerable, inspiring humans. |
Fri, 26 March 2021
This week in the April 2021 Liahona (Mormon church monthly magazine) the LDS church released 6 online articles attempting to coach faithful Mormons on how to better treat family members who have lost their faith in the Mormon church. I my opinion, they really are groundbreaking articles (even though they were confusingly withheld from the printed publication). Join us on 3/26/2021 as we discuss, praise, and critique the 6 articles. I would love your feedback on the articles as well. The 6 articles are:
Direct download: MormonStories-1411-April2021LiahonaArticles.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:36pm MST |
Thu, 25 March 2021
Join us now as Anthony Miller and Douglas Stilgoe join me to break down the recent rebranding and partial repenting of FAIRMormon, which includes:
Show Notes:
————— We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate and keep this content coming! Click here to donate monthly: $10 $25 $50 —————
Contact Us! *PO Box 171085 Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Direct download: MormonStories-1410-FAIRMormonPartiallyRepents.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:27am MST |
Mon, 22 March 2021
Join me today for this amazing Mormon Stories interview as I talk to Jared Hess and Tyler Measom about the making of their new Netflix documentary, "Murder Among the Mormons."
Direct download: MormonStories-1409-JaredHessTylerMeasomDoc.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:25pm MST |
Fri, 19 March 2021
Join us today as the brilliant John Hamer returns to help us dig deeper into:
Direct download: MormonStories-1408-JohnHamerMarkHofmannForgeries.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:44pm MST |
Wed, 17 March 2021
Today I share (and provide reactions to) a recent fireside given on February 28, 2021 by faithful Mormon scholar and Utah State University professor Patrick Mason given at the Logan Utah Cache West Stake. This is a re-recording. I decided to re-record because I felt as though my reactions were too angry. Honestly, I felt a bit unhinged. I know that many of you valued the passion. I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint you. My overall goal has always been for the podcast to feel "safe" for questioning Mormons, and I don't want to lose that for this important episode. I have included screen shots of the questions that were submitted by questioning stake members during the Q&A, which can be found here. I have also included the stake president statement that they decided NOT share Patrick’s presentation on the stake Facebook page as they had said they would during the presentation. Finally, a HUGE thanks to Angelina at GroveTrove Getaways for supplying us with this video. If you want to thank Angelina, you can find her on Instagram @agrovetrove.
Direct download: MormonStories-1407-PatrickMasonStakeFireside2021.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:32pm MST |
Wed, 17 March 2021
Today I share a recent fireside given on February 28, 2021 by faithful Mormon scholar and Utah State University professor Patrick Mason given at the Logan Utah Cache West Stake. This is a version that has no commentary. I have released adjacent to this episode a version with commenatry. Finally, a HUGE thanks to Angelina at GroveTrove Getaways for supplying us with this video. If you want to thank Angelina, you can find her on Instagram @agrovetrove.
Direct download: CacheWestStakeFireside-PatrickMason-NoCommentary.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:00pm MST |
Fri, 12 March 2021
This week Mormonism and the world (basically) have been captivated by the new Netflix Documentary "Murder Among the Mormons" - which covers the Salt Lake City bombings of 1985, and is currently #2 in the USA on Netflix. (SPOILER ALERT!!!!) While reactions to the documentary (produced & directed by friends Jared Hess and Tyler Measom) have been universally SUPER positive, many progressive and post-Mormons have expressed a wish that the documentary would have spent more time discussing the role of the Mormon church in: a) creating the environment that gave rise to the bombings, b) attempting to cover up/hide its problematic history, and c) obstruct or hinder the investigation of the bombings. I this epic, 2-part, 6 hour interview with Mormon/Ex-Mormon legend Sandra Tanner, we cover many of the questions/topics/issues that progressive and post-Mormons have been wanting to know about the Mormon church, Mark Hofmann, the bombings, and the investigations, such as:
All this, and so much more. This is a 6 hour interview.
For your convenience we have created time codes that will let you know which parts of the videos you can jump to (if you want to jump around or refer certain parts to friends). We hope you enjoy!!!!!!! And a HUGE thanks to Sandra (and Jerald) Tanner for sharing with us her/their historic insight. For me, this was a true honor. MORE TO COME!!!! - John Dehlin (March 10, 2021) P.S. If you value Sandra and her contributions to Mormon history, please support Sandra Tanner and Utah Lighthouse Ministry with your donations!!! ==================== 00:01:32 - Sandra’s impressions of “Murder Among the Mormons” 00:14:39 - How the LDS church was portrayed in the documentary - positive vs. negative 00:21:06 - Could this documentary pose a challenge to some member’s faith? 00:23:16 - Truly’s role in the documentary & lawyers as church “historians” 00:30:20 - Was it smart for it not to be a “hit piece” in the LDS church? 00:42:11 - How the story is being revived 00:51:15 - Could Hofmann had any accomplices’? 00:54:44 - Heroes & villiain of the story 01:00:35 - Culpability of the LDS church & their obstructing of justice 01:04:13 - Sandra’s recommendations for books on this subject 01:10:47 - Legacy of the Hofmann scandal & its impact on Mormonism 01:22:56 - “Lying for the Lord” & how Joseph Smith set a president of dishonesty within the church 01:28:04 - Why people stay in the church after they have lost their faith 01:32:21 - Could there be another event like this that threatens the church? 01:34:35 - Sandra’s predictions for the future of Mormonism 01:39:48 - Upcoming biography on Jerald & Sandra Tanner 01:43:41 - Sandra’s experiences from Mormon Stories Podcast 01:50:07 - Reflections on Jerald Tanner 01:54:21 - Closing remarks
Direct download: MormonStories-1406-SandraTanner2021pt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:20pm MST |
Wed, 10 March 2021
This week Mormonism and the world (basically) have been captivated by the new Netflix Documentary "Murder Among the Mormons" - which covers the Salt Lake City bombings of 1985, and is currently #2 in the USA on Netflix. (SPOILER ALERT!!!!) While reactions to the documentary (produced & directed by friends Jared Hess and Tyler Measom) have been universally SUPER positive, many progressive and post-Mormons have expressed a wish that the documentary would have spent more time discussing the role of the Mormon church in: a) creating the environment that gave rise to the bombings, b) attempting to cover up/hide its problematic history, and c) obstruct or hinder the investigation of the bombings. I this epic, 2-part, 6 hour interview with Mormon/Ex-Mormon legend Sandra Tanner, we cover many of the questions/topics/issues that progressive and post-Mormons have been wanting to know about the Mormon church, Mark Hofmann, the bombings, and the investigations, such as:
All this, and so much more. This is a 6 hour interview.
For your convenience we have created YouTube time codes that will let you know which parts of the videos you can jump to (if you want to jump around or refer certain parts to friends). We hope you enjoy!!!!!!! And a HUGE thanks to Sandra (and Jerald) Tanner for sharing with us her/their historic insight. For me, this was a true honor. MORE TO COME!!!! - John Dehlin (March 10, 2021) P.S. If you value Sandra and her contributions to Mormon history, please support Sandra Tanner and Utah Lighthouse Ministry with your donations!!! ==================== Part 1 Timecodes: 00:07:13 - Summary of Sandra’s background
Direct download: MormonStories-1405-SandraTanner2021pt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:05am MST |
Fri, 5 March 2021
"View of the Hebrews" is a book first published in 1823 by Ethan Smith of Vermont. In "View of the Hebrews," Ethan Smith argues (among other things) that the Native Americans were descended from the Lost Ten Tribes of Israel. This book was so popular that it had a second printing in 1825. Mormon General Authorities and apologists have feared "View of the Hebrews" for over a century, starting with B.H. Roberts in the early 1900s. Why is "View of the Hebrews" potentially problematic for the Mormon church and the Book of Mormon? A few reasons:
Recently, the brilliant Radio Free Mormon decided to read "View of the Hebrews" from cover to cover to see what the "hubub" is all about. Join us as we explore the following questions:
Direct download: MormonStories-1404-ViewoftheHebrewsRFM.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:12pm MST |
Thu, 4 March 2021
Chelsea and Nick Homer were both raised as devout Utah Mormons - with all the good and bad this entailed, and both were equally determined to have the perfect Mormon marriage and family. After meeting at BYU and an extended, careful courtship, Chelsea and Nick were married in the Bountiful temple. Then their Mormon dream immediately began to fray. Beginning with the wedding night/honeymoon, Chelsea and Nick experienced problems with sexual intimacy, due (in large part) to unhealthy messages they received around sexual "purity" and "modesty" as Mormon teens. Then, a year into their marriage, Nick began to lose his testimony in the Mormon church - causing Nick and Chelsea to seriously contemplate divorce. When it became clear that Nick was not going to perform the priesthood blessing for their their firstborn child, Chelsea and Nick decided to courageously post about their situation on her Instagram account, in part to defy the shaming and unhealthy rumors that so often accompany this situation within Mormonism (e.g., "Nick must be into PORN!"). This post was dated September 24, 2017. Surprisingly to both Chelsea and Nick, a Public Relations employee for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints asked if Chelsea would write a post about this experience for the Church’s Instagram. This post (dated February 7, 2018) can be found here, and to date has 58,947 "likes." Later, the LDS Church PR department asked Chelsea to author an article about navigating her Mormon mixed-faith marriage as a believing wife. This heavily correlated article is entitled "Who Do I Choose - God or My Husband? - and was published by lds.org on July 25, 2018. After these social media posts, Chelsea and Nick immediately began receiving messages, emails, and phone calls from other young Mormon couples also experiencing faith crises and/or mixed-faith marriages. To help provide support and community for all the young Mormon women who were struggling with faith crises, Chelsea formed on July 31, 2019 a Facebook group entitled "Faith Journey Meetups," which at present has over 2,000 members. The description of this group is as follows:
Eventually, Chelsea also lost her faith in the Mormon church, and today Nick and Chelsea are navigating a life of healing, growth, and joy after Mormonism. This is their story. |
Wed, 3 March 2021
Hey Mormon Stories Listeners! I am planning some super-cool interviews for the newly released "Murder Among the Mormons" documentary (released today on Netflix). A few SUPER important requests for you all:
I am planning several super cool interviews, including an interview with Directors - Jared Hess and Tyler Measom. So stay tuned for that! Here's where I need your help. I would REALLY love it if you would share with me: a) your reactions to the doc, and b) any questions you have for Jared and Tyler. This will help me make the most of time with them (which I see as precious). It will also stand as a cool record of progressive and post-Mormon reactions to the film. Please post your reactions here! If you want to watch additional coverage of the Mark Hofmann bombings on Mormon Stories Podcast, you can check out the following episodes:
Thank you in advance for your support! And a HUGE thanks to Jared and Tyler for making a documentary that we ALL can be proud of as Mormons/Ex-Mormons. More soon!
Direct download: MormonStories-PSA-MurderAmongMormons.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:20pm MST |
Wed, 3 March 2021
Join me as I assemble am amazing panel of wise humans to discuss "Spirituality After Mormonism." Panelists include Margi Weber Dehlin, Anthony D. Miller, Samantha Shelley (Zelph On The Shelf), and Holly Ashton Wallin. You will not be disappointed with this amazing lineup of wise humans. Feel free to bring your own questions, comments, and suggestions!!!!! Show Notes: Anthony's lists:
Samantha's Lists
Holly's Lists:
Margi's Lists:
————— We are 100% donor funded! Please click HERE to donate and keep this content coming! Click here to donate monthly: $10 $25 $50 —————
Contact Us! *PO Box 171085 Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Direct download: MormonStories-1402-SpiritualityAfterMormonism.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:02pm MST |
Fri, 26 February 2021
Join us today on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Mike Rinder - former top-level Scientology Executive. Mike was raised a Scientologist, knew L. Ron Hubbard personally, and became David Miscavige's "right hand man" as he lead Scientology's "Office of Special Affairs" (OSA). The OSA handled media and public relations, legal and government relations, and dealing with the "enemies of Scientology." Mike appeared in the Scientology documentary "Going Clear," as well as in the documentary TV Series "Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath." He currently co-hosts a podcast with Leah Remini called "Scientology: Fair Game." |
Wed, 24 February 2021
Hey Mormon Stories Listeners - I need your help!!!! This Friday (9am mountain time) I will be interviewing Mike Rinder - a former high-level leader of the Church of Scientology. I only have an hour with Mike, so I want to spend at least a few minutes of the hour comparing the Mormon church with the Church of Scientology. To be clear - I have studied Scientology enough to know that it is deeply problematic....from literally kidnapping/imprisoning members, to having members physically beaten, to militantly suing members, etc. In short, I know that Scientology is a brutal, inhumane, super-harmful cult. Consequently, I am also fully aware that any comparison between the Mormon church and the Church of Scientology is deeply fraught. But hear me out. I once read in Jared Diamond's "Guns, Germs, and Steel" that sometimes the less immediately lethal viruses are often the most harmful viruses overall, primarily BECAUSE they are less deadly than their counterparts. In other words, if a virus is so deadly that it immediately kills its hosts, it has a tougher time spreading, and ultimately harms fewer organisms. Conversely, if a virus doesn't kill its host, but makes its hosts sick enough for a long enough time, the virus can spread much more successfully to a much larger population, and do more harm overall to many more people . Get it? And so this is where I would like your feedback...and it's only an intellectual exercise. Here is the question: If the variables we are measuring include: ...could an argument be made that the Mormon church, in aggregate, causes more overall harm than the Church of Scientology...in part BECAUSE it is somewhat less severe overall? Also, what arguments/points am I missing? Please make your best case below (one way or the other), and I will do my best to incorporate your input into my discussion with Mike Rinder on Friday. Also, if you have any questions for Mike, please share them below and I will try my best to incorporate them. THANKS IN ADVANCE! John Dehlin P.S. Please know that I KNOW that the Mormon Church does a TON of good in the world (particularly for its members). Believe me....I see that, and I believe that. I am talking about the harm that the Mormon Church causes IN SPITE of all the good it does as well. |
Tue, 23 February 2021
Join us as we talk with cult expert Steven Hassan about how to help a loved one who believes in and follows the QAnon conspiracy cult. Questions we will address include:
Dr. Steven Hassan's Reddit AMA (Q&A) at QAnonCasualties entitled "How to Help People Involved in QAnon" can be found here. Steven's main web site is: Freedom of Mind. Books Mentioned in Today's Episode:
Cult Documentaries Mentioned in Today's Episode: |
Tue, 23 February 2021
Is it possible to stay active in the LDS Church in 2021 after.... ....learning all of the problematic history... ....becoming an ally for LGBTQ Mormons... ...becoming a feminist... ...becoming an "intellectual Mormon"... and after losing one's orthodox faith? More importantly, why would anyone WANT to? In Part 1 of my two-part interview with dear friend and faith transitions coach Jana Spangler, Jana told us the story of her Mormon faith journey, which includes:
In Part 2, Jana provides a more detailed framework for how others can find a way to remain active in the LDS Church if they so desire, inspired by the works of Richard Rohr and James Fowler (among others). |
Mon, 22 February 2021
Is it possible to stay active in the LDS Church in 2021 after.... ....learning all of the problematic history... ....becoming an ally for LGBTQ Mormons... ...becoming a feminist... ...becoming an "intellectual Mormon"... and after losing one's orthodox faith? More importantly, why would anyone WANT to? In Part 1 of my two-part interview with dear friend and faith transitions coach Jana Spangler, Jana tells us the story of her Mormon faith journey, which includes:
In Part 2, Jana provides a more detailed framework for how others can find a way to remain active in the LDS Church if they so desire, inspired by the works of Richard Rohr and James Fowler (among others). |
Fri, 12 February 2021
Recently, BYU Egyptologist John Gee published an article via the online Mormon apologetic website "The Interpreter" - attacking the scholarship of the Joseph Smith Papers Project, specifically Volume 4 of "The Joseph Smith Papers Revelations and Translations." The article is entitled: "Fantasy and Reality in the Translation of the Book of Abraham." Gee's main attack targets are recently retired BYU professor Brian Hauglid and current LDS church employee Robin Jensen. - Why would a BYU professor be attacking the work of the Joseph Smith Papers project - both of which are owned and controlled by the LDS Church? - What issues are at stake in this battle between old style and new style Mormon apologists? Join me and Radio Free Mormon on Friday at 11:15am Utah time as we discuss the history and details of this "civil war" within the world of Mormon apologetics. |
Fri, 12 February 2021
Please join me as I interview Dr. William L. Davis about his book "Visions in a Seer Stone: Joseph Smith and the Making of the Book of Mormon." In this interdisciplinary work, William L. Davis examines Joseph Smith's 1829 creation of the Book of Mormon, the foundational text of the Latter Day Saint movement. Positioning the text within the history of early American oratorical techniques, sermon culture, educational practices, and the passion for self-improvement, Davis elucidates both the fascinating cultural contexts for the creation of the Book of Mormon and the central role of oral culture in early nineteenth-century America. Drawing on performance studies, religious studies, literary culture, and the history of early American education, Davis analyzes Smith’s process of oral composition. How did he produce a history spanning a period of 1,000 years, filled with hundreds of distinct characters and episodes, all cohesively tied together in an overarching narrative? Eyewitnesses claimed that Smith never looked at notes, manuscripts, or books—he simply spoke the words of this American religious epic into existence. Judging the truth of this process is not Davis's interest. Rather, he reveals a kaleidoscope of practices and styles that converged around Smith's creation, with an emphasis on the evangelical preaching styles popularized by the renowned George Whitefield and John Wesley. William L. Davis, an independent scholar, holds a Ph.D. in theater and performance and has published in Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought; John Bunyan Studies: A Journal of Reformation and Nonconformist Culture; Leviathan: A Journal of Melville Studies; Style; Text and Performance Quarterly; and Textual Cultures. Dr. William L. Davis’ book, “Visions in a Seer Stone: Joseph Smith and the Making of the Book of Mormon” can be purchased in the following ways:
Direct download: MormonStories-1396-William_L._Davis.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:47am MST |
Thu, 11 February 2021
For those who really care about Mormon Stories Podcast, and particularly for those who donate, please provide feedback when you can. Thanks! John |
Fri, 5 February 2021
Please join me as Neon Trees front man Tyler Glenn and award-winning pianist and composer Paul Cardall return to Mormon Stories Podcast to premiere a new music video: "I Know It Hurts", from Paul Cardall's memoir-style album "The Broken Miracle." We would welcome your questions for Tyler and Paul during this live Q&A. “I Know It Hurts” was co-written by Cardall and Glenn after they met several years ago at the famed LOVELOUD Festival, where they were both performing. Glenn is co-founder of the festival, alongside Imagine Dragon’s Dan Reynolds. “Before writing this song, Tyler and I discussed at length the challenges we all feel that result from trauma,” Cardall explains. “In my case, though my heart transplant was a beautifully orchestrated miracle, it was still the grand finale to a lot of years of medical trauma. It triggered anxiety and depression. For everyone who is suffering, not necessarily physically, but because they are different or feel like an outsider, I want to say to them, ‘I know it hurts.’ This song acknowledges that you are not alone. This song validates our feelings in a way that says, ‘keep going, keep fighting, we understand.’” Glenn adds, “I wanted the lyric and performance of this song to convey a sense of understanding how it feels to get through a trauma or heartache. So much of life for many is the search for a sense of belonging, a sense of self-worth. This song feels more like an acknowledgement of that, and I hope it brings a feeling of being seen and comforted. I hope those in pain from whatever it may be, feel a sense of validation.” The video, directed by Rob Norbutt, is in stark black and white, the simplicity of which amplifies the power of the message: You’ve been floating out in space You just wanted to believe There were tears upon your face And your body felt no ease Dear God is there not more Cuz it’s cold on the church floor Cardall’s new album is more than a colorful collection of 19 emotionally-charged songs. The Broken Miracle is a musical memoir, a personal manifesto that celebrates a life filled with nearly unfathomable tragedy and heady triumph. An enthusiastic collaborator, Cardall welcomes an all-star cast of creative partners on The Broken Miracle. The title track was penned with Christian music veteran Matt Hammitt and Carter Forge, and is sung by Hammitt. “Broken Machine” features singer/songwriter Rachael Yamagata’s vocals on the tune Cardall co-wrote with Yamagata and Trevor Price. In addition to Glenn, the project also includes appearances by Ty Herndon, J. Daniel, and Akelee; while pop star David Archuleta sings the power-ballad “My Heart Beats for You.” His collaboration with Thompson Square on “All I See is Snow” was declared “ the Christmas song of the pandemic.” Cardall’s evolution as an artist continues with the release of The Broken Miracle, a title inspired by his true-to-life story of being born with a congenital heart defect, which nearly took his life numerous times. Cardall received a heart transplant 10 years ago and continues to thrive as a father, husband, and artist. The Broken Miracle will also be released as a biographical fiction novel written by J.D. Netto. The book will be released February 2. |
Thu, 4 February 2021
Join us for a review of Fiona and Terryl Givens' new book: "All Things New: Rethinking Sin, Salvation, and Everything in Between." According to Amazon: "In this book, Fiona and Terryl Givens trace the roots of our religious vocabulary, explore how a flawed inheritance compounds the wounds and challenges of a life devoted to discipleship, and suggest ways of reformulating our language in more healthy ways all in the hope that, as B. H. Roberts urged, we may all cooperate in the works of the Spirit to find a truer expression of a gospel restored." Panelists include Jana Spangler, Anthony D. Miller, and Brittney Hartley. |
Wed, 3 February 2021
After being raised by an orthodox Mormon mother and a "redneck, somewhat Jack Mormon Pioneer stock dad," Gretchen Day decided that she was going to be an "all in" Mormon mother. After getting engaged at age 19 (as a BYU Freshman), Gretchen went on to get married in the LDS temple, and to fulfill many of the stereotypes of a Utah County Ultra-Orthodox Mormon mother, including:
Over time, Gretchen's ultra-orthodox Mormon dream began to crumble in several different ways:
As Gretchen's faith began to crumble, she started to feel trapped within the Utah County Mormon bubble.
In Gretchen's case, she decided to leave the church in a very vocal fashion. This has included:
If you are seeking a powerful, inspiring story of one ultra-orthodox Utah county Mother's journey out of Mormonism, this is it. If you enjoyed the interviews of folks like Donna Showalter, Leah Young, you will deeply treasure this interview (but only after it breaks your heart). |
Tue, 2 February 2021
Gregory Barnes is a Mormon filmmaker and artist raised in Oak Park, Illinois. He studied film at BYU and served a Mormon mission in Argentina. Raised a faithful Mormon, Gregory was influenced by the comedic absurdity of exiting that Jell-O-obsessed desert religion. Gregory currently is a Master’s Student at TISCH at NYU where he made his most recent short film The Touch of the Master’s Hand -- a dark comedy about a Mormon missionary who confesses an unusual pornography addiction to his mission president. The film premieres at the Sundance Film Festival this week. Gregory's work has been featured by NPR, Playboy, and Pitchfork.
Direct download: MormonStories-1391-TouchOfTheMastersHand.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 8:50am MST |
Mon, 1 February 2021
After losing your orthodox Mormon faith, have you given up on the possibility of any sort of belief in and/or association with "God" or "Jesus"? More importantly, are you seeking to fill some of the existential and/or spiritual holes left over after your faith crisis? Today I sit down with John Hamer, Community of Christ Seventy and pastor of the Community of Christ Toronto Congregation to talk about why he thinks theists especially, but also some atheists have adopted a counterproductive position about the idea of "God." We'll also discuss why he thinks this is even a relevant conversation to have in the 21st century. Didn't rational people hash this all out in the Enlightenment? John Hamer believes that the majority of Christians including many intellectual leaders of the movement took a wrong turn centuries ago and with negative consequences for the whole path of Western civilization today. He proposes going back and exploring an alternative path, including opening up the term "God" as a variable in need of undefinition and reexamination. What, if anything, might this accomplish? Tune in and pose your own questions and objections. |
Fri, 29 January 2021
John Larsen is one of the most influential and well-respected figures within Modern progressive and post-Mormon communities. John (along with his ex-wife Zilpha) was the co-host of Mormon Expression podcast for several years, and he is an occasional host of Sunstone Podcast. He has appeared on Mormon Stories Podcast several times over the past decade. In today's episode I bring John Larson back, and we discuss several topics, including: -Divorce after a faith crisis. -Raising children with mental illness after a faith crisis. -Alcohol and drug use after a faith crisis. -Non-monogamy/swinging after a faith crisis. -The LDS Church's response to the COVID pandemic. -The impact of the QAnon phenomenon within the United States, and within the LDS Church. -How conservative politics within the U.S. are tearing apart some Utah wards and families. -What it would take to bring John Larsen back as a podcaster. -The need for kindness within both political and religious discourse, and how challenging this can be. John Larsen is one of my favorite thinkers in modern Mormonism, and is a fantastic guest. you will not be disappointed with this episode. ============= Some of the Mormon Expression episodes mention in this episode include: -Episode 27: The Word of Wisdom for Dummies -Episode 95a: Doctrine and Covenants 132 for Dummies Part 1 -Episode 95b: Doctrine and Covenants 132 for Dummies part 2 -Episode 275: How to Become an Ex-ex-Mormon -Episode 276: How to build a transoceanic vessel
John's past Mormon Stories Podcast episode include: -Episodes 186-187: "Mormon Stories Broadcasts Live with John Larsen and You!" -Episode 312: Mormon Expression Interviews John Dehlin -Episode 531: "John Larsen's Mormon Expression" -Episode 1097: "Building Community after Mormonism: A Conversation with John Larsen" |
Tue, 26 January 2021
In this short Mormon Stories Episode I sat down with Trent Told, who created a prototype of Joseph Smith’s Book of Mormon Plates. Based on Dan Vogel’s theories surrounding the “Tin Plates” and the Book of Mormon, Trent created a proof of concept model of the Book of Mormon made out of tin, in order to help demonstrate the physical size and weight of the plates. This model is also intended to help illustrate complexity and improbability that Joesph Smith could have possessed and handled actual Gold Plates (let alone run with them). |
Mon, 25 January 2021
Join me today for one of my favorite Mormon Stories Podcast interviews/interviewees of all time. In today's episode, Stanford University graduate student Amy McPhie Allebest returns to discuss the development of patriarchy within human civilization, with a specific focus on the religious context. She also announces her new podcast entitled "Breaking Down Patriarchy - An Essential Texts Book Club." Patriarchy has incredibly deep roots in the human condition, and harms everyone - especially women, but also men, youth, and children. This episode is for ALL of us, and you will not be disappointed with Amy's incredible knowledge, insight, and compassion. The Oxford Dictionary defines patriarchy as "a system of society or government in which men hold the power and women are largely excluded from it." All cultures all over the world practice patriarchy, sometimes violently, sometimes seemingly benevolently, sometimes in ways we are so accustomed to that we don't even notice. But when was patriarchy instituted? How? Why? Who has challenged this system, and how have their critiques changed the world? Breaking Down Patriarchy: An Essential Texts Book Club answers these questions, as well as addressing the very personal ways that patriarchy impacts our lives and relationships. Every week, an intelligent, insightful, relatable guest joins host Amy McPhie Allebest to read and discuss a historical text. Listeners are invited to read the book ahead of time, but even if they are not able to read, Amy and her reading partners provide a thorough "breakdown" of the issues and powerful, practical takeaways that benefit the real lives of women - and men! - everywhere. Check out the introductory episode to hear about the reading list, and the egalitarian vision that aims to foster the flourishing of all human beings, including boys and men. Amy's Bio: I grew up in Colorado as the oldest of 5 children, reading, writing, drawing, singing, and practicing the piano and violin. I attended Brigham Young University, where I met Erik Allebest during my first week of freshman year, studied abroad in Israel, lived in Chile for a year and a half as a missionary, and married Erik all before graduating with a degree in English. Erik and I moved around - to Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Spain, and Northern California - while Erik started and ran chess businesses for a living (primarily chess.com) and I stayed home to raise our four children. Those four kids have become brilliant, hilarious people and are our very best friends. I am a long-time trail runner, a recent CrossFitter, a lifelong reader and writer, and an almost-graduate of Stanford University's Master's of Liberal Arts program. Web Site Link: www.breakingdownpatriarchy.com Facebook Page: facebook.com/breakingdownpatriarchy Instagram: @bdownpatriarchy Twitter: @bdownpatriarchy #patriarchy #feminism #mormon
Direct download: MormonStories-1387-BreakingDownPatriarchy.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:41am MST |
Tue, 19 January 2021
In my opinion, one of the most damaging books ever published by the Mormon Church is Spencer W. Kimball’s “The Miracle of Forgiveness.” Among other things, this book teaches that:
To be clear, this book is currently sold at Deseret Book, and remains on the book shelves of hundreds of thousands of Mormons across the world. In this short presentation, I offer my brief argument for why I believe that “The Miracle of Forgiveness” should be removed from Deseret Book, and I let listeners and viewers know what they can do to help. I also share my thoughts on what the Mormon Church can do to help “atone” for selling this damaging book for several decades. How You Can Help:
P.S. This is a re-recording to make the video less “ranty,” and to remove the discussion of book bans and book burnings, which is not useful. HUGE thanks to everyone who gave feedback on this. I always want to be a constructive voice.
Direct download: MormonStories-1386-Miracle_of_Forgiveness_Re-Record.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:05pm MST |
Fri, 15 January 2021
Please join me and Radio Free Mormon for a discussion of “Laura A. Gaddy vs. the Corporation of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” – a class action lawsuit currently before the United States District Court for the District of Utah, with Robert J. Shelby as the Presiding Judge. The main purpose of the case is as follows: “The case seeks certification as a class action based upon the large number of former Mormons who have been deceived by Defendant COP’s fraud, as a result of the Mormon Corporate Empire’s longstanding coordinated lies and material omissions about its history as well as lies about its use of tithing donations and how it would use that tithing in the future.” Two of the main documents central to the case can be found here (for your review):
Click here to contact Kay Burningham (the attorney on this case), or to follow this case. Financial donations to support the past and ongoing expenses for the case can be made here. P.S. One primary motivator for this episode is to fundraise for Radio Free Mormon so that he can be supported in his podcasting efforts, and so that we can keep him around for a very long time. Please click here to become a monthly donor to Radio Free Mormon. |
Wed, 13 January 2021
In a recent video released by paid actors supported by FAIRMormon and the More Good Foundation, Kwaku El, Brad Witbeck, and Cardon Ellis make the claim that I and Mormon Stories (and Jeremy Runnells) are intentionally "homewrecking for profit" with the work we do. In an attempt to combat this hurtful claim, I reached out to our amazing Mormon Stories Listeners, requesting your help by sharing if/how Mormon Stories Podcast has helped your family. I have been deeply honored and humbled by the overwhelming support we have received, and would like to personally thank each one of you that were brave enough to share your own “Mormon Story” with me. Mormon Stories podcast seeks to understand, explore, challenge, and improve the Mormon experience through stories, and has never had the intention of harming families in any way. In fact, we strive to support and mend family relationships by promoting healthy communication skills and unconditional love. The primary objectives of Mormon Stories podcast include:
Mormon Stories Podcast by no means benefits from the destruction of families, and we are saddened to see our community mis-represented in this way. It is my hope that the personal accounts represented in this video will be evidence of how Mormon Stories has actually benefited the lives of our listeners, and lay to rest the claim that Jeremy Runnells and myself have ever participated in “homewrecking for profit.” Thank you. |
Wed, 13 January 2021
Recently two friends of mine (Liz Cannon and Ray Purcell) asked to interview me about my role and experiences over the past 20 years trying to support people experiencing a Mormon faith crisis. This is our interview. Note: This interview is not a "typical" Mormon Stories Podcast interview, in that it warrants a PG-13 "rating" due to some adult language and topics in the interview. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. I hope you enjoy. |
Thu, 7 January 2021
My reaction to yesterday's riot at the U.S. Capitol (January 6, 2021).
Direct download: MormonStories-1382-MormonismAndTrumpism.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:37pm MST |
Tue, 5 January 2021
Jim Bennett is the author of "A Faithful Reply to the CES Letter." He is also the son of the late Utah U.S. Senator Bob Bennett. In Part 5 of a multi-part series with Jim, I bring to Jim listener/viewer questions, along with several questions/observations of my own, into a passionate, 4 hour final conversation. If you were frustrated that I gave Jim "a pass" in the previous episodes, you may be more satisfied with this episode. |
Sat, 2 January 2021
Jim Bennett is the author of "A Faithful Reply to the CES Letter." He is also the son of the late Utah U.S. Senator Bob Bennett. In Part 4 of a multi-part series with Jim, we discuss in-depth his approach to maintaining belief in the Mormon church AFTER exposure to all of the historical and social problems currently vexing the LDS church, as highlighted in Jeremy Runnell's groundbreaking book "CES Letter: My Search for Answers to my Mormon Doubts." Today's episode covers:
To thank Jim for his participation so far in this series, please email him at: jim@canonizer.com. |
Thu, 31 December 2020
Jim Bennett is the author of "A Faithful Reply to the CES Letter." He is also the son of the late Utah U.S. Senator Bob Bennett. In Part 2 of a multi-part series with Jim, we discuss in-depth his approach to maintaining belief in the Mormon church AFTER exposure to all of the historical and social problems currently vexing the LDS church, as highlighted in Jeremy Runnell's groundbreaking book "CES Letter: My Search for Answers to my Mormon Doubts." Today's episode covers:
Also, please do not miss my dear friend Bill Reel's super in-depth interview with Jim if you happened to miss it. |
Thu, 31 December 2020
Jim Bennett is the author of "A Faithful Reply to the CES Letter." He is also the son of the late Utah U.S. Senator Bob Bennett. In Part 2 of a multi-part series with Jim, we discuss in-depth his approach to maintaining belief in the Mormon church AFTER exposure to all of the historical and social problems currently vexing the LDS church, as highlighted in Jeremy Runnell's groundbreaking book "CES Letter: My Search for Answers to my Mormon Doubts." Today's episode covers:
Also, please do not miss my dear friend Bill Reel's super in-depth interview with Jim if you happened to miss it. |
Thu, 31 December 2020
Jim Bennett is the author of "A Faithful Reply to the CES Letter." He is also the son of the late Utah U.S. Senator Bob Bennett. In Part 1 of a multi-part series with Jim, we discuss in-depth his approach to maintaining belief in the Mormon church AFTER exposure to to all of the historical and social problems currently vexing the LDS church, as highlighted in Jeremy Runnell's groundbreaking book "CES Letter: My Search for Answers to my Mormon Doubts. Today's episode covers:
|
Wed, 30 December 2020
Are you looking for a story of hope and love to end this gosh-forsaken year? Here you go. WordPerfect co-founder and philanthropist Bruce Bastian (interviewed here and here) never expected to find love again after his mixed-orientation Mormon marriage dissolved. Then he met Clint Ford. This is an epic love story for the ages, folks. So hopeful. So inspiring. I hope you enjoy!!!! And I hope that this story makes you as happy as it made me. |
Tue, 29 December 2020
Ten years ago I interviewed WordPerfect co-founder and philanthropist Bruce Bastian, wherein we discussed his life growing up as gay Mormon boy in Idaho, his years at WordPerfect, his journey "coming out" as a gay Mormon father in the 1990s, and his early efforts to support LGBTQ rights. Since this first interview, Bruce became even more active in fighting for LGBTQ equality in the United States, continuing his involvement with the Human Rights Campaign and supporting LGBTQ equality in Utah - all of which meaningfully contributed to the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States in 2015. Recently I sat down again with Bruce to record a history of these past 10 years from his perspective. I hope you enjoy!
Direct download: MormonStories-1375-BruceBastianEquality.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:46am MST |
Tue, 22 December 2020
Today, Anthony Miller, Jana Spangler and Brittney Hartley join us to discuss the topic of navigating and enjoying Christmas after a Mormon faith crisis.
Direct download: MormonStories-1374-ChristmasAfterAFaithCrisis.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:51pm MST |
Sat, 19 December 2020
Zelph on the Shelf is one of the most successful YouTube channels in history dedicated to exploring Mormonism in thoughtful and entertaining ways.
Five years ago I sat down with Samantha Shelley and Tanner Gilliland to discuss their loss of faith as "Mormon Millennials." That episode was extremely well-received at the time, and was highly influential in the journey of tens of thousands of Mormons, including Tyler Glenn (lead singer of Neon Trees). Today's episode with Tanner and Samantha will be in two parts: Part 1: Samantha and Tanner discuss the evolution and impact of Zelph on the Shelf over the past 5 years. Part 2 (My favorite part): Samantha and Tanner discuss how they have healed and grown over the past 5 years in many of the domains most salient to transitioning Mormons, including: creativity, community, identity, mental health, spirituality, sexuality, finding meaning/purpose in their lives, and in thoughts about death and the afterlife. Part 3: We end this interview by discussing Tanner and Samantha's perspective on the recent Mormon apologetic content released by FAIRMormon, featuring controversial apologist Kwaku El. I found Samantha and Tanner to be incredibly thoughtful and wise, and am confident that you will thoroughly enjoy this episode. |
Sat, 19 December 2020
Recently, the Mormon apologetic organization FAIRMormon has released several aggressive new videos via their YouTube Channel starring the actors Kwaku El, Cardon Ellis, and Brad Witbeck. These videos are intended to appeal to younger Latter-day saints, but also launch aggressive attacks against me (John Dehlin) and Jeremy Runnells (author of the CES Letter). The historical accuracy/honesty of these videos has also been called into question by many. Today we interview Anthony D. Miller - a wise and thoughtful post-Mormon - about these latest events. Some of the topics we hope to cover are listed below. We would also welcome your questions/comments. Topics for today:
Direct download: MormonStories-1372-AnthonyMillerApologetics.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:23am MST |
Fri, 18 December 2020
Recently I was super fortunate to sit down with reality tv stars Heather Gay and Dre Nord - who are both currently appearing on BravoTV's "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City." In this three-part series, we focus on Heather and Dre's life experiences within the context of Mormonism (and Utah Mormonism). Part 1 covers...
https://youtu.be/svHV0bQEHwA Part 2 covers...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtUYWOc_JOo&feature=youtu.be Part 3 covers...
This is a heartwarming, epic, and inspiring story of resilience. I was deeply moved by this vulnerability, wisdom, courage, and resilience of these inspiring women. Please share any questions or comments you have for Heather and Dre below. |
Fri, 18 December 2020
Recently I was super fortunate to sit down with reality tv stars Heather Gay and Dre Nord - who are both currently appearing on BravoTV's "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City." In this three-part series, we focus on Heather and Dre's life experiences within the context of Mormonism (and Utah Mormonism). Part 1 covers...
https://youtu.be/svHV0bQEHwA Part 2 covers...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtUYWOc_JOo&feature=youtu.be Part 3 covers...
This is a heartwarming, epic, and inspiring story of resilience. I was deeply moved by this vulnerability, wisdom, courage, and resilience of these inspiring women. Please share any questions or comments you have for Heather and Dre below. |
Tue, 15 December 2020
Mormon Stories Listeners, I really need your help. The Mormon Church is funneling millions of dollars each year into non-profit "charities" like the More Good Foundation and FAIRMormon to smear my name and Jeremy Runnell's name, in hopes of destroying the positive impact of Mormon Stories Podcast. Watch any cult documentary. It's what cults do. In a recent video released by paid actors supported by FAIRMormon and the More Good Foundation, Kwaku El, Brad Witbeck, and Cardon Ellis make the claim that I and Mormon Stories (and Jeremy Runnells) are intentionally "homewrecking for profit" with the work we do. Here's a clip of their lies. https://youtu.be/3jYZNBwsS3Q?t=86 I could really use your help in the following way:
This would mean the world to me, and will help blunt the lies that FAIRMormon, Cardon, Kwaku, Brad, and the More Good Foundation are telling people. Thank you so, so much for your support. John Dehlin
Direct download: URGENT__Has_Mormon_Stories_Podcast_Destroyed_or_Helped_Your_Family___Please_Share_Your_Story..mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:45pm MST |
Thu, 10 December 2020
Recently I was super fortunate to sit down with reality tv stars Heather Gay and Dre Nord - who are both currently appearing on BravoTV's "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City." In this two-part series, we focus on Heather and Dre's experiences as Mormons. Topics covered in today's episode include:
This is a heartwarming and inspiring story of resilience. I was deeply moved by this vulnerability, wisdom, courage, and resilience of these inspiring women. Next week we plan to share Part 2 of this interview, which will cover:
Direct download: MormonStories-1369-RealHousewivesPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:36am MST |
Tue, 8 December 2020
In today’s episode we will provide an overview of several LDS church apologetic non-profits, and discuss recent concerns about dishonesty, mean-spiritedness, and the incitement of violence by some people associated with these Mormon apologist non-profits. The Mormon apologetic non-profits that we will be discussing today include: the More Good Foundation, the Mormon Interpreter Foundation, Book of Mormon Central, and FAIRMormon. |
Tue, 8 December 2020
Paul Cardall battled long odds from birth, eventually triumphing over a serious heart disability to earn distinction as an outstanding composer and pianist. In 1997 he first won widespread notice by setting author Richard Paul Evans’ No. 1 NY Times best-seller The Christmas Box to music. Cardall’s achievements range from releasing 11 chart-topping albums, winning the Gospel Music Association Dove Award for Instrumental Album of the Year, collaborating with Grammy-winning singer CeCe Winans, Audrey Assad, The Piano Guys among other distinguished artists. With over 2 billion streams, Cardall is one of the most listened to Steinway & Sons sponsored artist in music business. His entrepreneurial activities include founding and directing the Stone Angel Music label and recording studio, promoting medical research and providing scholarships for congenital heart disease through his foundation. Cardall’s music has included works for piano, vocal, band and orchestral settings. On his latest album, Peaceful Piano, he returns to his solo performance roots while exploring complete real-time improvisation for the first time. Paul's Mormon story includes:
Cardall’s story is continuing to evolve as an artist, author and humanitarian. His upcoming album The Broken Miracle, which will be available for pre-order this December, was inspired by J.D. Netto’s biographical fictional novel, based on real events in the artists life from being born with only half a heart, enduring a series of surgeries, which culminated in a heart transplant. While waiting for a donor heart, the pianist’s brother was tragically killed. The album will feature several award-winning guests including David Archuleta, Ty Herndon, Thompson Square, Neon Tress’ Tyler Glenn and more. We hope you enjoy this episode! Paul is a fantastic human. |
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