While in Seattle, Washington this past week—we were excited to finally put a face to the voice that so many in the post- and progressive-Mormon world have come to know—by interviewing the host of the Radio Free Mormon podcast of the family of Mormon Discussions podcasts. While we still do not disclose his name, we are confident that after this 7-hour journey with "RFM," you will come away with an accurate depiction of the man behind some of the most informative and entertaining podcasts in the Mormon community.

Broadcasting behind Enemy lines, Radio Free Mormon tackles the difficult subjects in Mormonism like no one else.  Dissecting things like a surgeon, RFM gets to the crux of the issue, exposing all the connections and subtleties that lie below the surface.   His unique sense of humor, his knowledge of Mormonism, his displaying of the data.  If you haven’t yet listened, you likely could use some Radio Free Mormon in your life.

While in Seattle, Washington this past week—we were excited to finally put a face to the voice that so many in the post- and progressive-Mormon world have come to know—by interviewing the host of the Radio Free Mormon podcast of the family of Mormon Discussions podcasts. While we still do not disclose his name, we are confident that after this 7-hour journey with "RFM," you will come away with an accurate depiction of the man behind some of the most informative and entertaining podcasts in the Mormon community.

Broadcasting behind Enemy lines, Radio Free Mormon tackles the difficult subjects in Mormonism like no one else.  Dissecting things like a surgeon, RFM gets to the crux of the issue, exposing all the connections and subtleties that lie below the surface.   His unique sense of humor, his knowledge of Mormonism, his displaying of the data.  If you haven’t yet listened, you likely could use some Radio Free Mormon in your life.

While in Seattle, Washington this past week—we were excited to finally put a face to the voice that so many in the post- and progressive-Mormon world have come to know—by interviewing the host of the Radio Free Mormon podcast of the family of Mormon Discussions podcasts. While we still do not disclose his name, we are confident that after this 7-hour journey with "RFM," you will come away with an accurate depiction of the man behind some of the most informative and entertaining podcasts in the Mormon community.

Broadcasting behind Enemy lines, Radio Free Mormon tackles the difficult subjects in Mormonism like no one else.  Dissecting things like a surgeon, RFM gets to the crux of the issue, exposing all the connections and subtleties that lie below the surface.   His unique sense of humor, his knowledge of Mormonism, his displaying of the data.  If you haven’t yet listened, you likely could use some Radio Free Mormon in your life.

While in Seattle, Washington this past week—we were excited to finally put a face to the voice that so many in the post- and progressive-Mormon world have come to know—by interviewing the host of the Radio Free Mormon podcast of the family of Mormon Discussions podcasts. While we still do not disclose his name, we are confident that after this 7-hour journey with "RFM," you will come away with an accurate depiction of the man behind some of the most informative and entertaining podcasts in the Mormon community.

Broadcasting behind Enemy lines, Radio Free Mormon tackles the difficult subjects in Mormonism like no one else.  Dissecting things like a surgeon, RFM gets to the crux of the issue, exposing all the connections and subtleties that lie below the surface.   His unique sense of humor, his knowledge of Mormonism, his displaying of the data.  If you haven’t yet listened, you likely could use some Radio Free Mormon in your life.

While in Seattle, Washington this past week—we were excited to finally put a face to the voice that so many in the post- and progressive-Mormon world have come to know—by interviewing the host of the Radio Free Mormon podcast of the family of Mormon Discussions podcasts. While we still do not disclose his name, we are confident that after this 7-hour journey with "RFM," you will come away with an accurate depiction of the man behind some of the most informative and entertaining podcasts in the Mormon community.

Broadcasting behind Enemy lines, Radio Free Mormon tackles the difficult subjects in Mormonism like no one else.  Dissecting things like a surgeon, RFM gets to the crux of the issue, exposing all the connections and subtleties that lie below the surface.   His unique sense of humor, his knowledge of Mormonism, his displaying of the data.  If you haven’t yet listened, you likely could use some Radio Free Mormon in your life.

Today we interview Mike Brown. Mike is interesting and important to Mormon Stories Podcast for a number of reasons.

1) Mike has a compelling story of how Mormon Truth claims deeply affected his relationship to the church.

2) Mike has studied Mormon Truth Claims more than most Mormons I know, and has authored 31 essays exploring Mormon Truth claims, which have been posted to the Mormon Stories Podcast website. Finally,

3) Mike was one of the original supporters of the Mormon Stories Podcast billboard campaign, which has been responsible for helping thousands of Mormons find support during their faith crisis.

Today Mike will share with us his story, and then we will go deep into his explorations and discoveries regarding Mormon Truth Claims.

Today we interview Mike Brown. Mike is interesting and important to Mormon Stories Podcast for a number of reasons.

1) Mike has a compelling story of how Mormon Truth claims deeply affected his relationship to the church.

2) Mike has studied Mormon Truth Claims more than most Mormons I know, and has authored 31 essays exploring Mormon Truth claims, which have been posted to the Mormon Stories Podcast website. Finally,

3) Mike was one of the original supporters of the Mormon Stories Podcast billboard campaign, which has been responsible for helping thousands of Mormons find support during their faith crisis.

Today Mike will share with us his story, and then we will go deep into his explorations and discoveries regarding Mormon Truth Claims.

Today we interview Mike Brown. Mike is interesting and important to Mormon Stories Podcast for a number of reasons.

1) Mike has a compelling story of how Mormon Truth claims deeply affected his relationship to the church.

2) Mike has studied Mormon Truth Claims more than most Mormons I know, and has authored 31 essays exploring Mormon Truth claims, which have been posted to the Mormon Stories Podcast website. Finally,

3) Mike was one of the original supporters of the Mormon Stories Podcast billboard campaign, which has been responsible for helping thousands of Mormons find support during their faith crisis.

Today Mike will share with us his story, and then we will go deep into his explorations and discoveries regarding Mormon Truth Claims.

Today we interview Mike Brown. Mike is interesting and important to Mormon Stories Podcast for a number of reasons.

1) Mike has a compelling story of how Mormon Truth claims deeply affected his relationship to the church.

2) Mike has studied Mormon Truth Claims more than most Mormons I know, and has authored 31 essays exploring Mormon Truth claims, which have been posted to the Mormon Stories Podcast website. Finally,

3) Mike was one of the original supporters of the Mormon Stories Podcast billboard campaign, which has been responsible for helping thousands of Mormons find support during their faith crisis.

Today Mike will share with us his story, and then we will go deep into his explorations and discoveries regarding Mormon Truth Claims.

On November 17th in Salt Lake City we will be holding the largest conference for post-Mormons ever assembled. The focus of THRIVEDAY will be healing, growth, and community for post-Mormons. This meeting will NOT be about criticizing or discussing the Mormon church. We are hopeful that everyone who attends will feel educated, uplifted, and empowered.

Speakers for the event include:

- Wayne Sermon - Lead Guitarist for Imagine Dragons
- Amber Scorah - Ex-Jehovah's Witness and Author of Leaving the Witness
- Dr. John Dehlin - MormonStories.org
- Stephenie Sorensen Larsen - Encircle
- Natasha Helfer Parker - Marriage and Sex Therapist
- Mindy Gledhill - Musician
- Christian Moore - Author of "The Resilience Breakthrough"
- Laci Green - Youtuber and Podcaster
- Hans H Mattsson - Former LDS Area Authority (Sweden)
- Julienna Viegas
- Elizabeth Paulson Dalton - Attorney and Marriage/Divorce Coach
- Lisa Swain Hacking - THRIVE Committee
- John Hamer - Community of Christ
- Sarah Newcomb - Lamanite Truth
- Book signings with Jeremy Runnells and more!
- Karaoke led by Allan Mount (Marriage on a Tightrope)

Register here! http://thrivebeyondmormonism.com

In today's episode of Mormon Stories Podcast we bring back Youtuber, Podcaster, Author, and Sex expert Laci Green to discuss her take on "10 Things You Should Know About Sexuality After Mormonism."

Laci Green is the author of the book: "Sex Plus: Learning, Loving, and Enjoying Your Body" - which we reference during the interview.

In today's episode of Mormon Stories Podcast we bring back Youtuber, Podcaster, Author, and Sex expert Laci Green to discuss her take on "10 Things You Should Know About Sexuality After Mormonism."

Laci Green is the author of the book: "Sex Plus: Learning, Loving, and Enjoying Your Body" - which we reference during the interview.

Laci Green is an internationally recognized YouTuber (1.4M subscribers), author, and podcaster. Prior to 2019, Laci's Youtube content and public activism primarily focused on sex education which culminated with Laci being named one of the 30 most influential people on the Internet by Time Magazine (2016).

Laci Green was born in Utah. Her mother is Mormon and her father is from Iran. As Laci she grew older she began to question the Mormon faith because of its strict gender roles and expectations of her as a woman. Growing up, Laci was interested in theater and was supported by her mother, who owns a theater company.

In 2018, Laci published her first book, Sex Plus: Learning, Loving and Enjoying Your Body.

In this interview, Laci also discusses the challenges of being a Youtuber, and what factors left her to leave her successful Youtube channel behind (with 1.4M subscribers).

On 3 September 2019, Laci launched a podcast, entitled "Indirect Message," which "explores how the internet is changing society."

https://www.youtube.com/user/lacigreen/
https://www.lacigreen.tv/podcast

Laci Green is an internationally recognized YouTuber (1.4M subscribers), author, and podcaster. Prior to 2019, Laci's Youtube content and public activism primarily focused on sex education which culminated with Laci being named one of the 30 most influential people on the Internet by Time Magazine (2016).

Laci Green was born in Utah. Her mother is Mormon and her father is from Iran. As Laci she grew older she began to question the Mormon faith because of its strict gender roles and expectations of her as a woman. Growing up, Laci was interested in theater and was supported by her mother, who owns a theater company.

In 2018, Laci published her first book, Sex Plus: Learning, Loving and Enjoying Your Body.

In this interview, Laci also discusses the challenges of being a Youtuber, and what factors left her to leave her successful Youtube channel behind (with 1.4M subscribers).

On 3 September 2019, Laci launched a podcast, entitled "Indirect Message," which "explores how the internet is changing society."

https://www.youtube.com/user/lacigreen/
https://www.lacigreen.tv/podcast

In today's episode of Mormon Stories Podcast we talk with Chris Shelton about the complexities of leaving Scientology, and how he became an ex-Scientology activist.

In today's episode of Mormon Stories Podcast we talk with Chris Shelton about the complexities of leaving Scientology, and how he became an ex-Scientology activist.

In today's episode of Mormon Stories Podcast we talk with Chris Shelton about the complexities of leaving Scientology, and how he became an ex-Scientology activist.

In today's episode of Mormon Stories Podcast we talk with Chris Shelton about the complexities of leaving Scientology, and how he became an ex-Scientology activist.

Join us today as we continue our multi-part series on Scientology with Chris Shelton - Critical Thinker. Chris is a former Scientologist and Sea Org member and is now a writer, consultant podcaster, YouTuber and advocate for critical thinking.

Today we will be focusing on:

- Chris' life as a Scientologist, including his time as a member of the elite Sea Org.

- The events that led to Chris leaving Scientology.

- Chris' life as an ex-Scientologist activist.

As always, we will be exploring the similarities and differences between Scientology and Mormonism.

Join us today as we continue our multi-part series on Scientology with Chris Shelton - Critical Thinker. Chris is a former Scientologist and Sea Org member and is now a writer, consultant podcaster, YouTuber and advocate for critical thinking.

Today we will be focusing on:

- Chris' life as a Scientologist, including his time as a member of the elite Sea Org.

- The events that led to Chris leaving Scientology.

- Chris' life as an ex-Scientologist activist.

As always, we will be exploring the similarities and differences between Scientology and Mormonism.

Join us today as we continue our multi-part series on Scientology with Chris Shelton - Critical Thinker. Chris is a former Scientologist and Sea Org member and is now a writer, consultant podcaster, YouTuber and advocate for critical thinking.

Today we will be focusing on:

- Chris' life as a Scientologist, including his time as a member of the elite Sea Org.

- The events that led to Chris leaving Scientology.

- Chris' life as an ex-Scientologist activist.

As always, we will be exploring the similarities and differences between Scientology and Mormonism.

Join us today as we continue our multi-part series on Scientology with Chris Shelton - Critical Thinker. Chris is a former Scientologist and Sea Org member and is now a writer, consultant podcaster, YouTuber and advocate for critical thinking.

Today we will be focusing on:

- Chris' life as a Scientologist, including his time as a member of the elite Sea Org.

- The events that led to Chris leaving Scientology.

- Chris' life as an ex-Scientologist activist.

As always, we will be exploring the similarities and differences between Scientology and Mormonism.

In today's episode we will continue our series on the parallels between Scientology/Mormonism - interviewing Chris Shelton - Critical Thinker -- a former Scientologist and Sea Org member, and current writer, consultant podcaster, YouTuber and advocate for critical thinking.

We will be begin by exploring the rise of modern Scientology after the death of founder L. Ron Hubbard - including an exploration of what it means to be a Scientologist in 2019.

In today's episode we will continue our series on the parallels between Scientology/Mormonism - interviewing Chris Shelton - Critical Thinker -- a former Scientologist and Sea Org member, and current writer, consultant podcaster, YouTuber and advocate for critical thinking.

We will be begin by exploring the rise of modern Scientology after the death of founder L. Ron Hubbard - including an exploration of what it means to be a Scientologist in 2019.

In today's episode we will continue our series on the parallels between Scientology/Mormonism - interviewing Chris Shelton - Critical Thinker -- a former Scientologist and Sea Org member, and current writer, consultant podcaster, YouTuber and advocate for critical thinking.

We will be begin by exploring the rise of modern Scientology after the death of founder L. Ron Hubbard - including an exploration of what it means to be a Scientologist in 2019.

Today we sit down with ex-Scientologist and Youtuber Chris Shelton to discuss a brief history of Scientology - with a focus on parallels between Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard and Mormon church founder Joseph Smith.

Today we sit down with ex-Scientologist and Youtuber Chris Shelton to discuss a brief history of Scientology - with a focus on parallels between Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard and Mormon church founder Joseph Smith.

Today we sit down with ex-Scientologist and Youtuber Chris Shelton to discuss a brief history of Scientology - with a focus on parallels between Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard and Mormon church founder Joseph Smith.

Have you explored drinking alcohol after losing faith in Mormonism? Have you or a loved one struggled with alcohol abuse during or after your faith journey?

In this episode my dear friend Brittany Holley opens up about her journey with alcohol use and abuse after a Mormon faith crisis.

Have you explored drinking alcohol after losing faith in Mormonism? Have you or a loved one struggled with alcohol abuse during or after your faith journey?

In this episode my dear friend Brittany Holley opens up about her journey with alcohol use and abuse after a Mormon faith crisis.

Have you explored drinking alcohol after losing faith in Mormonism? Have you or a loved one struggled with alcohol abuse during or after your faith journey?

In this episode my dear friend Brittany Holley opens up about her journey with alcohol use and abuse after a Mormon faith crisis.

Mormon Stories had the real privilege of interviewing Daniel “Wayne” Sermon of Imagine Dragons, along with his wise and talented wife Alex Sermon, an accomplished professional ballerina, in their home in Las Vegas. In this interview the Sermons open up about their lives as Mormons, their life with Imagine Dragons, and their journey out of Mormonism.

Their interview is so inspiring....especially regarding their devoted partnership. 

Mormon Stories had the real privilege of interviewing Daniel “Wayne” Sermon of Imagine Dragons, along with his wise and talented wife Alex Sermon, an accomplished professional ballerina, in their home in Las Vegas. In this interview the Sermons open up about their lives as Mormons, their life with Imagine Dragons, and their journey out of Mormonism.

Their interview is so inspiring....especially regarding their devoted partnership. 

Mormon Stories had the real privilege of interviewing Daniel “Wayne” Sermon of Imagine Dragons, along with his wise and talented wife Alex Sermon, an accomplished professional ballerina, in their home in Las Vegas. In this interview the Sermons open up about their lives as Mormons, their life with Imagine Dragons, and their journey out of Mormonism.

Their interview is so inspiring....especially regarding their devoted partnership. 

Mormon Stories had the real privilege of interviewing Daniel “Wayne” Sermon of Imagine Dragons, along with his wise and talented wife Alex Sermon, an accomplished professional ballerina, in their home in Las Vegas. In this interview the Sermons open up about their lives as Mormons, their life with Imagine Dragons, and their journey out of Mormonism.

Their interview is so inspiring....especially regarding their devoted partnership. 

Mormon Stories had the real privilege of interviewing Daniel “Wayne” Sermon of Imagine Dragons, along with his wise and talented wife Alex Sermon, an accomplished professional ballerina, in their home in Las Vegas. In this interview the Sermons open up about their lives as Mormons, their life with Imagine Dragons, and their journey out of Mormonism.

Their interview is so inspiring....especially regarding their devoted partnership. 

IMPORTANT! This Saturday morning (8:30am) in Salt Lake City we will be convening with Sam Young for The March to Save a Child (during LDS General Conference Weekend).

Attendance is free. Advance registration is encouraged, as it helps us gauge attendance for planning purposes.

Please spread the word far and wide on social media so that we can have thousands of people attend, and see here for more details:

https://protecteverychild.com/

Join us now as we interview the author of the new book “Bridges - Ministering to Those Who Question.” In Part 1 we will hear David’s story - focusing on how he came to write a book in support of disaffected Mormons. In Part 2 and 3 we will explore his book, digging into his suggestions for how to minister to Mormons who are struggling with their faith, and how the LDS church can become a more hospitable place for Mormons who question/doubt/disbelieve.

Join us now as we interview the author of the new book “Bridges - Ministering to Those Who Question.” In Part 1 we will hear David’s story - focusing on how he came to write a book in support of disaffected Mormons. In Part 2 and 3 we will explore his book, digging into his suggestions for how to minister to Mormons who are struggling with their faith, and how the LDS church can become a more hospitable place for Mormons who question/doubt/disbelieve.

Join us now as we interview the author of the new book “Bridges - Ministering to Those Who Question.” In Part 1 we will hear David’s story - focusing on how he came to write a book in support of disaffected Mormons. In Part 2 and 3 we will explore his book, digging into his suggestions for how to minister to Mormons who are struggling with their faith, and how the LDS church can become a more hospitable place for Mormons who question/doubt/disbelieve.

Marlena Smith’s parents joined the Mormon church as black converts after the priesthood ban was lifted (1978). After her parents moved to Utah, Marlena was born in 1989 in Provo, Utah. Marlena was raised as a devout Mormon in Lindon and Pleasant Grove - as the only black family in her ward and stake. Later Marlena attended BYU and married in the Payson temple.

This is Marlena’s story of growing up as a black Mormon woman in Utah

Marlena Smith’s parents joined the Mormon church as black converts after the priesthood ban was lifted (1978). After her parents moved to Utah, Marlena was born in 1989 in Provo, Utah. Marlena was raised as a devout Mormon in Lindon and Pleasant Grove - as the only black family in her ward and stake. Later Marlena attended BYU and married in the Payson temple.

This is Marlena’s story of growing up as a black Mormon woman in Utah

Marlena Smith’s parents joined the Mormon church as black converts after the priesthood ban was lifted (1978). After her parents moved to Utah, Marlena was born in 1989 in Provo, Utah. Marlena was raised as a devout Mormon in Lindon and Pleasant Grove - as the only black family in her ward and stake. Later Marlena attended BYU and married in the Payson temple.

This is Marlena’s story of growing up as a black Mormon woman in Utah

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we do an all-day, live-streamed series of interviews on "How to Survive BYU as an Unorthodox or Non-Believing Student." Please share your questions, comments, and stories here so we can use them in the show. 

This segment focuses on the BYU Survival Guide, created by our panel of guests today.

And please share this info with anyone who you think might benefit from it, including any past, present, or future Brigham Young University-Provo or Brigham Young University–Idaho students. Thanks in advance.

Join us now for Part 4 of our Mormon Stories Podcast series on “How to Survive BYU as an Unorthodox or Non-Believing Student.” We will be interviewing Andrew, one of the co-founders of the “BYU Survival Guide” - a survival guide for unorthodox and non-believing BYU students. 

http://www.byusurvivalguide.com

Please share your questions, comments, and stories here so we can use them in the show.

And please share this info with anyone who you think might benefit from it, including any past, present, or future BYU-Provo or Brigham Young University–Idaho students.

Join us now for Part 3 of our Mormon Stories Podcast series on “How to Survive BYU as an Unorthodox or Non-Believing Student.” We will be interviewing Jared Brinton, brother of dear friend and Mormon Stories Podcast listener Janelle Brinton.

Please share your questions, comments, and stories here so we can use them in the show.

And please share this info with anyone who you think might benefit from it, including any past, present, or future BYU-Provo or Brigham Young University–Idaho students. Thanks in advance.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we do an all-day, live-streamed series of interviews on "How to Survive BYU as an Unorthodox or Non-Believing Student." Please share your questions, comments, and stories here so we can use them in the show. 

And please share this info with anyone who you think might benefit from it, including any past, present, or future Brigham Young University-Provo or Brigham Young University–Idaho students. Thanks in advance.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we do an all-day, live-streamed series of interviews on "How to Survive BYU as an Unorthodox or Non-Believing Student." 

And please share this info with anyone who you think might benefit from it, including any past, present, or future Brigham Young University-Provo or Brigham Young University–Idaho students. Thanks in advance.

SUMMARY: While I am pleased to finally see extensive news coverage of Mormon Bishop/Stake High Councilman Steven Murdock’s voyeurism story, I feel strongly that the reporters are missing the most important part of this story: basically, that Mormon church leadership explicitly knew of Bishop Murdock’s history of sexual harassment as early as 2017, but chose to ignore the reports, kept him in as bishop for several months after the firing, and eventually “promoted” Steven Murdock to the Stake High Council in spite of at least three different direct reports regarding his pattern of behavior.

The following report comes from personal interviews with over 20 individuals who have personal relationships with Steven Murdock, either as friends, co-workers, neighbors, or ward/stake members.

Presented at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference in Salt Lake City, UT

Presented at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference in Salt Lake City, UT

Anthony shares the feedback he received from his Mormon Story

Anthony Miller is widely known across post- and progressive- Mormon internet communities for his thoughtful contributions on faith, spirituality, religion, scripture, and relationships. Anthony has presented at multiple Sunstone Symposium sessions in the past and at this Summer's Thrive Conference where he gave a presentation titled "Growing Beyond Grief" which we hope to feature on a future episode of Mormon Stories / The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis. Anthony has also given past interviews with Gina Colvin's A Thoughtful Faith and appeared on multiple episodes with Bill Reel and Allan Mount (linked on Anthony's blog) unpacking the Gospel Topic Essays.

On these episodes with Mormon Stories, we hope to dig deep into Anthony's personal Mormon story including:

*What he calls his "literal faith" in the truth claims of the Mormon Church, including using his patriarchal blessing as the literal guidebook for the choices and direction he pursed in life
*How his faith began to unravel after he discovered the LDS-published Gospel Topic Essays
*How he sought community and healing during his faith crisis, including the founding of a Mormon Spectrum group
*How he deconstructed his past beliefs and is reconstructing a sense of spirituality after his faith crisis

....and so much more.

We hope our listeners will draw from Anthony's rich experience in learning to navigate a mixed faith marriage, communicating across faith and belief, reconstructing a sense of spirituality after a faith crisis, and creating support communities for people inside and outside the edge of Mormonism.

Anthony Miller is widely known across post- and progressive- Mormon internet communities for his thoughtful contributions on faith, spirituality, religion, scripture, and relationships. Anthony has presented at multiple Sunstone Symposium sessions in the past and at this Summer's Thrive Conference where he gave a presentation titled "Growing Beyond Grief" which we hope to feature on a future episode of Mormon Stories / The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis. Anthony has also given past interviews with Gina Colvin's A Thoughtful Faith and appeared on multiple episodes with Bill Reel and Allan Mount (linked on Anthony's blog) unpacking the Gospel Topic Essays.

On these episodes with Mormon Stories, we hope to dig deep into Anthony's personal Mormon story including:

*What he calls his "literal faith" in the truth claims of the Mormon Church, including using his patriarchal blessing as the literal guidebook for the choices and direction he pursed in life
*How his faith began to unravel after he discovered the LDS-published Gospel Topic Essays
*How he sought community and healing during his faith crisis, including the founding of a Mormon Spectrum group
*How he deconstructed his past beliefs and is reconstructing a sense of spirituality after his faith crisis

....and so much more.

We hope our listeners will draw from Anthony's rich experience in learning to navigate a mixed faith marriage, communicating across faith and belief, reconstructing a sense of spirituality after a faith crisis, and creating support communities for people inside and outside the edge of Mormonism.

Anthony Miller is widely known across post- and progressive- Mormon internet communities for his thoughtful contributions on faith, spirituality, religion, scripture, and relationships. Anthony has presented at multiple Sunstone Symposium sessions in the past and at this Summer's Thrive Conference where he gave a presentation titled "Growing Beyond Grief" which we hope to feature on a future episode of Mormon Stories / The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis. Anthony has also given past interviews with Gina Colvin's A Thoughtful Faith and appeared on multiple episodes with Bill Reel and Allan Mount (linked on Anthony's blog) unpacking the Gospel Topic Essays.

On these episodes with Mormon Stories, we hope to dig deep into Anthony's personal Mormon story including:

*What he calls his "literal faith" in the truth claims of the Mormon Church, including using his patriarchal blessing as the literal guidebook for the choices and direction he pursed in life
*How his faith began to unravel after he discovered the LDS-published Gospel Topic Essays
*How he sought community and healing during his faith crisis, including the founding of a Mormon Spectrum group
*How he deconstructed his past beliefs and is reconstructing a sense of spirituality after his faith crisis

....and so much more.

We hope our listeners will draw from Anthony's rich experience in learning to navigate a mixed faith marriage, communicating across faith and belief, reconstructing a sense of spirituality after a faith crisis, and creating support communities for people inside and outside the edge of Mormonism.

Anthony Miller is widely known across post- and progressive- Mormon internet communities for his thoughtful contributions on faith, spirituality, religion, scripture, and relationships. Anthony has presented at multiple Sunstone Symposium sessions in the past and at this Summer's Thrive Conference where he gave a presentation titled "Growing Beyond Grief" which we hope to feature on a future episode of Mormon Stories / The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis. Anthony has also given past interviews with Gina Colvin's A Thoughtful Faith and appeared on multiple episodes with Bill Reel and Allan Mount (linked on Anthony's blog) unpacking the Gospel Topic Essays.

On these episodes with Mormon Stories, we hope to dig deep into Anthony's personal Mormon story including:

*What he calls his "literal faith" in the truth claims of the Mormon Church, including using his patriarchal blessing as the literal guidebook for the choices and direction he pursed in life
*How his faith began to unravel after he discovered the LDS-published Gospel Topic Essays
*How he sought community and healing during his faith crisis, including the founding of a Mormon Spectrum group
*How he deconstructed his past beliefs and is reconstructing a sense of spirituality after his faith crisis

....and so much more.

We hope our listeners will draw from Anthony's rich experience in learning to navigate a mixed faith marriage, communicating across faith and belief, reconstructing a sense of spirituality after a faith crisis, and creating support communities for people inside and outside the edge of Mormonism.

Anthony Miller is widely known across post- and progressive- Mormon internet communities for his thoughtful contributions on faith, spirituality, religion, scripture, and relationships. Anthony has presented at multiple Sunstone Symposium sessions in the past and at this Summer's Thrive Conference where he gave a presentation titled "Growing Beyond Grief" which we hope to feature on a future episode of Mormon Stories / The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis. Anthony has also given past interviews with Gina Colvin's A Thoughtful Faith and appeared on multiple episodes with Bill Reel and Allan Mount (linked on Anthony's blog) unpacking the Gospel Topic Essays.

On these episodes with Mormon Stories, we hope to dig deep into Anthony's personal Mormon story including:

*What he calls his "literal faith" in the truth claims of the Mormon Church, including using his patriarchal blessing as the literal guidebook for the choices and direction he pursed in life
*How his faith began to unravel after he discovered the LDS-published Gospel Topic Essays
*How he sought community and healing during his faith crisis, including the founding of a Mormon Spectrum group
*How he deconstructed his past beliefs and is reconstructing a sense of spirituality after his faith crisis

....and so much more.

We hope our listeners will draw from Anthony's rich experience in learning to navigate a mixed faith marriage, communicating across faith and belief, reconstructing a sense of spirituality after a faith crisis, and creating support communities for people inside and outside the edge of Mormonism.

Anthony Miller is widely known across post- and progressive- Mormon internet communities for his thoughtful contributions on faith, spirituality, religion, scripture, and relationships. Anthony has presented at multiple Sunstone Symposium sessions in the past and at this Summer's Thrive Conference where he gave a presentation titled "Growing Beyond Grief" which we hope to feature on a future episode of Mormon Stories / The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis. Anthony has also given past interviews with Gina Colvin's A Thoughtful Faith and appeared on multiple episodes with Bill Reel and Allan Mount (linked on Anthony's blog) unpacking the Gospel Topic Essays.

On these episodes with Mormon Stories, we hope to dig deep into Anthony's personal Mormon story including:

*What he calls his "literal faith" in the truth claims of the Mormon Church, including using his patriarchal blessing as the literal guidebook for the choices and direction he pursed in life
*How his faith began to unravel after he discovered the LDS-published Gospel Topic Essays
*How he sought community and healing during his faith crisis, including the founding of a Mormon Spectrum group
*How he deconstructed his past beliefs and is reconstructing a sense of spirituality after his faith crisis

....and so much more.

We hope our listeners will draw from Anthony's rich experience in learning to navigate a mixed faith marriage, communicating across faith and belief, reconstructing a sense of spirituality after a faith crisis, and creating support communities for people inside and outside the edge of Mormonism.

Presented by John Dehlin at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah

http://thrivebeyondmormonism.org

Presented by Christian Moore at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah

http://thrivebeyondmormonism.org

Presented by Natasha Helfer Parker at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah

Presented by Margi Dehlin at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah

What could cause one of the Mormon church's "best and brightest" women to lose their faith in the church? 

For part 2 of today’s interview with Donna Showalter, we will hear how an east bench, Provo, Utah Mormon mother, former Relief Society President, former Stake Young Women’s President, and BYU employee navigated her Mormon faith crisis.

- This story includes the gripping account of what happened when they asked Mormon apostle Jeffrey R. Holland to heal their son of his gayness.

- It also includes Donna's touching experiences as a Relief Society President.

- We also learn about the impact of the November 2015 LGBTQ policy on Donna, Michael and her family - along with the 2019 policy reversal.

What could cause one of the Mormon church's "best and brightest" women to lose their faith in the church? 

For part 2 of today’s interview with Donna Showalter, we will hear how an east bench, Provo, Utah Mormon mother, former Relief Society President, former Stake Young Women’s President, and BYU employee navigated her Mormon faith crisis.

- This story includes the gripping account of what happened when they asked Mormon apostle Jeffrey R. Holland to heal their son of his gayness.

- It also includes Donna's touching experiences as a Relief Society President.

- We also learn about the impact of the November 2015 LGBTQ policy on Donna, Michael and her family - along with the 2019 policy reversal.

What could cause one of the Mormon church's "best and brightest" women to lose their faith in the church? 

For part 2 of today’s interview with Donna Showalter, we will hear how an east bench, Provo, Utah Mormon mother, former Relief Society President, former Stake Young Women’s President, and BYU employee navigated her Mormon faith crisis.

- This story includes the gripping account of what happened when they asked Mormon apostle Jeffrey R. Holland to heal their son of his gayness.

- It also includes Donna's touching experiences as a Relief Society President.

- We also learn about the impact of the November 2015 LGBTQ policy on Donna, Michael and her family - along with the 2019 policy reversal.

What could cause one of the Mormon church's "best and brightest" women to lose their faith in the church? 

For part 2 of today’s interview with Donna Showalter, we will hear how an east bench, Provo, Utah Mormon mother, former Relief Society President, former Stake Young Women’s President, and BYU employee navigated her Mormon faith crisis.

- This story includes the gripping account of what happened when they asked Mormon apostle Jeffrey R. Holland to heal their son of his gayness.

- It also includes Donna's touching experiences as a Relief Society President.

- We also learn about the impact of the November 2015 LGBTQ policy on Donna, Michael and her family - along with the 2019 policy reversal.

What could cause one of the Mormon church's "best and brightest" women to lose their faith in the church? 

For part 2 of today’s interview with Donna Showalter, we will hear how an east bench, Provo, Utah Mormon mother, former Relief Society President, former Stake Young Women’s President, and BYU employee navigated her Mormon faith crisis.

- This story includes the gripping account of what happened when they asked Mormon apostle Jeffrey R. Holland to heal their son of his gayness.

- It also includes Donna's touching experiences as a Relief Society President.

- We also learn about the impact of the November 2015 LGBTQ policy on Donna, Michael and her family - along with the 2019 policy reversal.

For part 1 of today’s interview with Donna and Michael Showalter, we will hear the story of the Showalter family’s Mormon journey, which includes living in very conservative Provo, Utah, Michael coming out as gay, and Donna’s journey to fully accept/embrace/love/celebrate Michael.

For part 1 of today’s interview with Donna and Michael Showalter, we will hear the story of the Showalter family’s Mormon journey, which includes living in very conservative Provo, Utah, Michael coming out as gay, and Donna’s journey to fully accept/embrace/love/celebrate Michael.

Should the Mormon Church Conduct Worthiness Interviews for 8-11 Year Old Children?

Earlier this week The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a marketing research survey inquiring from members about the idea of lowering the age of youth interviews with clergy from age 12 to eight.

Today we have assembled an all-star panel to discuss whether or not this is a good idea. Panelists include:

- Natasha Helfer Parker (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Sex Therapist)

- Roger Hendrix (former Mormon Bishop, Stake Presidency Member, Mission President, and CES Director)

- Sam Young (founder of Protect LDS Children and Protect All Children)

- Joelle Casteix ( leading global expert, advocate and spokesperson for survivors of child sexual assault and institutional cover-up. Joelle has considerable experience fighting the Mormon church in state legislatures in support of sexual abuse victims )

In this episode of The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis licensed marriage and sex therapist and active Mormon Natasha Helfer Parker shares with us a more effective approach to masturbation and pornography for both teens and adults.

In this episode of The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis licensed marriage and sex therapist and active Mormon Natasha Helfer Parker shares with us a more effective approach to masturbation and pornography for both teens and adults.

In this episode of The Gift of the Mormon Faith Crisis licensed marriage and sex therapist and active Mormon Natasha Helfer Parker shares with us a more effective approach to masturbation and pornography for both teens and adults.

On 6/30/2019 Mormon Bishop Jared Lusk attended a Mormon church disciplinary council in the Farmington, New Mexico stake on the charges of apostasy. His "sins" included:
 
1) Losing his Mormon faith after reading the Mormon church's own Gospel Topics essays, which discussed topics such as : a) discrepancies in the multiple accounts of Joseph Smith's first vision, b) Joseph Smith's polygamy and polyandry, c) concerns about the authenticity of the Book of Mormon and Book of Abraham, etc.
 
2) Writing publicly about his loss of faith on Facebook, and
 
3) Supporting Mormon Bishop Sam Young's efforts to protect Mormon children from sexual abuse.
 
During the disciplinary council Jared's Mormon Stake President read the charges of apostasy, including several of Jared's Facebook statements. Then, Jared's wife, Gwen, along with two of their daughters (Taylor and Madison) testified on Jared's behalf. Then Jared provided his own response to the charges.
 
At the close of the disciplinary council, Jared's stake president twice asked Jared explicitly if he would agree to stop commenting on social media about his disbelief in fundamental Mormon truth claims. Both times Jared told his stake president that he would NOT stop expressing his disbelief on social media - explicitly defying the counsel of Jared's priesthood leadership (which in and of itself is ground for apostasy).
 
In a somewhat unexpected and heretofore unheard of act in the modern area, Jared was informed by his Stake President that he has been Disfellowshipped for Apostasy.

Join us today on Mormon Stories Podcast as Allan and Kattie Mount share with us their top tips for thriving as a Mormon mixed-faith couple. Allan and Kattie Mount co-host the “Marriage on a Tightrope” podcast which is focused on supporting Mormon mixed-faith couples. This presentation was first delivered in Salt Lake City at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference

Join us today on Mormon Stories Podcast as Allan and Kattie Mount share with us their top tips for thriving as a Mormon mixed-faith couple. Allan and Kattie Mount co-host the “Marriage on a Tightrope” podcast which is focused on supporting Mormon mixed-faith couples. This presentation was first delivered in Salt Lake City at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference

Join us today on Mormon Stories Podcast as Allan and Kattie Mount share with us their top tips for thriving as a Mormon mixed-faith couple. Allan and Kattie Mount co-host the “Marriage on a Tightrope” podcast which is focused on supporting Mormon mixed-faith couples. This presentation was first delivered in Salt Lake City at the June 2019 THRIVE Conference

For today’s Mormon Stories Podcast episode we are interviewing Kattie and Allan Mount (co-hosts of Marriage on a Tightrope Podcast) about:

1) how they have navigated their mixed-faith Mormon marriage,
2) what it has been like to start a podcast to support others in a mixed-faith marriage, and
3) what tips they have for Mormon mixed-faith married couples.

For today’s Mormon Stories Podcast episode we are interviewing Kattie and Allan Mount (co-hosts of Marriage on a Tightrope Podcast) about:

1) how they have navigated their mixed-faith Mormon marriage,
2) what it has been like to start a podcast to support others in a mixed-faith marriage, and
3) what tips they have for Mormon mixed-faith married couples.

For today’s Mormon Stories Podcast episode we are interviewing Kattie and Allan Mount (co-hosts of Marriage on a Tightrope Podcast) about: 

1) how they have navigated their mixed-faith Mormon marriage, 

2) what it has been like to start a podcast to support others in a mixed-faith marriage, and 

3) what tips they have for Mormon mixed-faith married couples.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Jared, Gwen, and Madison Lusk. This episode is a continuation in our series highlight former Mormon bishops and their families who have experienced a faith crisis. Jared is set to be excommunicated on June 30th, 2019 for apostasy (details below).

The Lusks live in Farmington, New Mexico. Jared and Gwen were raised as devout Mormons, married in the Jordan River temple, had 6 children, and established a successful dental practice in Farmington, NM. Jared and Gwen devoted their lives to the Mormon church for 45+ years, including Jared serving as bishop from 2008-2013, and Gwen serving in multiple callings.

Jared’s faith crisis was triggered in 2015 when he began reading the LDS Gospel Topics Essays. Jared and Gwen experienced a mixed faith marriage for a few years. In April of 2018, while being released from a stake calling, Jared shared with his stake president and one of the counselors details regarding his faith crisis. The stake president immediately took Jared’s temple recommend away, and then released Gwen from her calling and took her temple recommend away a few weeks later. Madison (18) resigned from the church in April, 2019.

After Jared began expressing public support for Sam Young and the Protect LDS Children movement, along with expressing public feelings about the church’s truth claims, Jared was summoned to a disciplinary council. Jared faces excommunication on June 30th, 2019 at 6pm at the Farmington, NM stake center.

This is their story.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Jared, Gwen, and Madison Lusk. This episode is a continuation in our series highlight former Mormon bishops and their families who have experienced a faith crisis. Jared is set to be excommunicated on June 30th, 2019 for apostasy (details below).

The Lusks live in Farmington, New Mexico. Jared and Gwen were raised as devout Mormons, married in the Jordan River temple, had 6 children, and established a successful dental practice in Farmington, NM. Jared and Gwen devoted their lives to the Mormon church for 45+ years, including Jared serving as bishop from 2008-2013, and Gwen serving in multiple callings.

Jared’s faith crisis was triggered in 2015 when he began reading the LDS Gospel Topics Essays. Jared and Gwen experienced a mixed faith marriage for a few years. In April of 2018, while being released from a stake calling, Jared shared with his stake president and one of the counselors details regarding his faith crisis. The stake president immediately took Jared’s temple recommend away, and then released Gwen from her calling and took her temple recommend away a few weeks later. Madison (18) resigned from the church in April, 2019.

After Jared began expressing public support for Sam Young and the Protect LDS Children movement, along with expressing public feelings about the church’s truth claims, Jared was summoned to a disciplinary council. Jared faces excommunication on June 30th, 2019 at 6pm at the Farmington, NM stake center.

This is their story.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Jared, Gwen, and Madison Lusk. This episode is a continuation in our series highlight former Mormon bishops and their families who have experienced a faith crisis. Jared is set to be excommunicated on June 30th, 2019 for apostasy (details below).

The Lusks live in Farmington, New Mexico. Jared and Gwen were raised as devout Mormons, married in the Jordan River temple, had 6 children, and established a successful dental practice in Farmington, NM. Jared and Gwen devoted their lives to the Mormon church for 45+ years, including Jared serving as bishop from 2008-2013, and Gwen serving in multiple callings.

Jared’s faith crisis was triggered in 2015 when he began reading the LDS Gospel Topics Essays. Jared and Gwen experienced a mixed faith marriage for a few years. In April of 2018, while being released from a stake calling, Jared shared with his stake president and one of the counselors details regarding his faith crisis. The stake president immediately took Jared’s temple recommend away, and then released Gwen from her calling and took her temple recommend away a few weeks later. Madison (18) resigned from the church in April, 2019.

After Jared began expressing public support for Sam Young and the Protect LDS Children movement, along with expressing public feelings about the church’s truth claims, Jared was summoned to a disciplinary council. Jared faces excommunication on June 30th, 2019 at 6pm at the Farmington, NM stake center.

This is their story.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Jared, Gwen, and Madison Lusk. This episode is a continuation in our series highlight former Mormon bishops and their families who have experienced a faith crisis. Jared is set to be excommunicated on June 30th, 2019 for apostasy (details below).

The Lusks live in Farmington, New Mexico. Jared and Gwen were raised as devout Mormons, married in the Jordan River temple, had 6 children, and established a successful dental practice in Farmington, NM. Jared and Gwen devoted their lives to the Mormon church for 45+ years, including Jared serving as bishop from 2008-2013, and Gwen serving in multiple callings.

Jared’s faith crisis was triggered in 2015 when he began reading the LDS Gospel Topics Essays. Jared and Gwen experienced a mixed faith marriage for a few years. In April of 2018, while being released from a stake calling, Jared shared with his stake president and one of the counselors details regarding his faith crisis. The stake president immediately took Jared’s temple recommend away, and then released Gwen from her calling and took her temple recommend away a few weeks later. Madison (18) resigned from the church in April, 2019.

After Jared began expressing public support for Sam Young and the Protect LDS Children movement, along with expressing public feelings about the church’s truth claims, Jared was summoned to a disciplinary council. Jared faces excommunication on June 30th, 2019 at 6pm at the Farmington, NM stake center.

This is their story.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Jared, Gwen, and Madison Lusk. This episode is a continuation in our series highlight former Mormon bishops and their families who have experienced a faith crisis. Jared is set to be excommunicated on June 30th, 2019 for apostasy (details below).

The Lusks live in Farmington, New Mexico. Jared and Gwen were raised as devout Mormons, married in the Jordan River temple, had 6 children, and established a successful dental practice in Farmington, NM. Jared and Gwen devoted their lives to the Mormon church for 45+ years, including Jared serving as bishop from 2008-2013, and Gwen serving in multiple callings.

Jared’s faith crisis was triggered in 2015 when he began reading the LDS Gospel Topics Essays. Jared and Gwen experienced a mixed faith marriage for a few years. In April of 2018, while being released from a stake calling, Jared shared with his stake president and one of the counselors details regarding his faith crisis. The stake president immediately took Jared’s temple recommend away, and then released Gwen from her calling and took her temple recommend away a few weeks later. Madison (18) resigned from the church in April, 2019.

After Jared began expressing public support for Sam Young and the Protect LDS Children movement, along with expressing public feelings about the church’s truth claims, Jared was summoned to a disciplinary council. Jared faces excommunication on June 30th, 2019 at 6pm at the Farmington, NM stake center.

This is their story.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Jared, Gwen, and Madison Lusk. This episode is a continuation in our series highlight former Mormon bishops and their families who have experienced a faith crisis. Jared is set to be excommunicated on June 30th, 2019 for apostasy (details below).

The Lusks live in Farmington, New Mexico. Jared and Gwen were raised as devout Mormons, married in the Jordan River temple, had 6 children, and established a successful dental practice in Farmington, NM. Jared and Gwen devoted their lives to the Mormon church for 45+ years, including Jared serving as bishop from 2008-2013, and Gwen serving in multiple callings.

Jared’s faith crisis was triggered in 2015 when he began reading the LDS Gospel Topics Essays. Jared and Gwen experienced a mixed faith marriage for a few years. In April of 2018, while being released from a stake calling, Jared shared with his stake president and one of the counselors details regarding his faith crisis. The stake president immediately took Jared’s temple recommend away, and then released Gwen from her calling and took her temple recommend away a few weeks later. Madison (18) resigned from the church in April, 2019.

After Jared began expressing public support for Sam Young and the Protect LDS Children movement, along with expressing public feelings about the church’s truth claims, Jared was summoned to a disciplinary council. Jared faces excommunication on June 30th, 2019 at 6pm at the Farmington, NM stake center.

This is their story.

Join us now on Mormon Stories Podcast as we interview Tonya Guest. Tonya will be sharing with us her story, which includes experiencing a Mormon faith crisis, expressing a public statement on social media - specifically regarding issues of women and the church - and then having her bishop question and shame her publicly for what she shared. We will also be discussing Tonya’s attempts to discuss the issue with her stake president, and we will read stories/experiences from others with similar experiences.

Join us now for today's Mormon Stories Podcast episode as we interview ex-Jehovah's Witness Amber Scorah about her new book: "Leaving the Witness: Exiting Religion and Finding a Life." Building off of our previous interview with former Jehovah's Witness, Lloyd Evans, we continue to discover the parallels between the JW Movement and Mormonism, particularly surrounding the struggle to form a new identity after leaving the religion. In this interview Amber shares her experience leaving her religion. From the book's abstract:

"Amber's loss of faith culminated in her own personal apocalypse, the only kind of ending possible for a Jehovah's Witness.

Shunned by family and friends as an apostate, Amber was alone in Shanghai and thrown into a world she had only known from the periphery--with no education or support system. A coming of age story of a woman already in her thirties, this unforgettable memoir examines what it's like to start one's life over again with an entirely new identity. It follows Scorah to New York City, where a personal tragedy forces her to look for new ways to find meaning in the absence of religion. With compelling, spare prose, Leaving the Witness traces the bittersweet process of starting over, when everything one's life was built around is gone."

In this episode, we talk with Crystal Escobar about her new book: My Life as a Wannabe Balanced Mom, specifically how she has navigated both motherhood and being a business entrepreneur. Those familiar with Mormon Stories Podcast will recall our earlier episodes with both Crystal and her husband Sean that detailed Sean's experience as a victim of sexual abuse and also detailing their journey out of Mormonism. Today's interview will expound on Crystal's experience as she learned to balance motherhood with her other life's interests, and how she rebuilt her idea of motherhood outside the paradigm of the Mormon Church.

We will also be joined by a few of her readers in the second part of the interview.

In this episode, we talk with Crystal Escobar about her new book: My Life as a Wannabe Balanced Mom, specifically how she has navigated both motherhood and being a business entrepreneur. Those familiar with Mormon Stories Podcast will recall our earlier episodes with both Crystal and her husband Sean that detailed Sean's experience as a victim of sexual abuse and also detailing their journey out of Mormonism. Today's interview will expound on Crystal's experience as she learned to balance motherhood with her other life's interests, and how she rebuilt her idea of motherhood outside the paradigm of the Mormon Church.

We will also be joined by a few of her readers in the second part of the interview.

Please join us now for our Mormon Stories Podcast interview with Spencer Nugent. Spencer, along with his parents and sibling, were the first Jamaicans baptized on the island into the Mormon church. Later Spencer’s family moved to Orem, Utah. Spencer attended UVSC and BYU, served a mission to San Antonio, Texas, and became an Industrial Designer. Spencer is a renaissance man of sorts. His many talents/interests include karaoke/music, art, travel, design, drawing, landscape architecture, teaching, etc.

After Spencer was married in the Salt Lake City temple and had two sons, he and his ex-wife eventually experienced a Mormon faith crisis and divorced.

Today’s episode will cover numerous topics, including Mormon cultural imperialism/whitewashing, being black in the Mormon church, Spencer’s mission, male eating disorders, parenting, divorce, faith crises, and finding identity, morality, and community as a black ex-Mormon man in Utah.

Please join us now for our Mormon Stories Podcast interview with Spencer Nugent. Spencer, along with his parents and sibling, were the first Jamaicans baptized on the island into the Mormon church. Later Spencer’s family moved to Orem, Utah. Spencer attended UVSC and BYU, served a mission to San Antonio, Texas, and became an Industrial Designer. Spencer is a renaissance man of sorts. His many talents/interests include karaoke/music, art, travel, design, drawing, landscape architecture, teaching, etc.

After Spencer was married in the Salt Lake City temple and had two sons, he and his ex-wife eventually experienced a Mormon faith crisis and divorced.

Today’s episode will cover numerous topics, including Mormon cultural imperialism/whitewashing, being black in the Mormon church, Spencer’s mission, male eating disorders, parenting, divorce, faith crises, and finding identity, morality, and community as a black ex-Mormon man in Utah.

Please join us now for our Mormon Stories Podcast interview with Spencer Nugent. Spencer, along with his parents and sibling, were the first Jamaicans baptized on the island into the Mormon church. Later Spencer’s family moved to Orem, Utah. Spencer attended UVSC and BYU, served a mission to San Antonio, Texas, and became an Industrial Designer. Spencer is a renaissance man of sorts. His many talents/interests include karaoke/music, art, travel, design, drawing, landscape architecture, teaching, etc.

After Spencer was married in the Salt Lake City temple and had two sons, he and his ex-wife eventually experienced a Mormon faith crisis and divorced.

Today’s episode will cover numerous topics, including Mormon cultural imperialism/whitewashing, being black in the Mormon church, Spencer’s mission, male eating disorders, parenting, divorce, faith crises, and finding identity, morality, and community as a black ex-Mormon man in Utah.

On this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we travel to Davis, California to visit with the Purves family as they share their unique experience with a Mormon Faith Crisis.

In this interview we cover:

• The goodness that Mormonism brought Scott and Joanna as youth, including a nurturing community and a sense of purpose
• Scott and Joanna's decision to raise their family in Mormonism, culminating in the calling of Scott as Bishop
• The rewards and challenges of serving as a Bishop, and how the demanding service impacted Joanna and the rest of the family
• What made a Mormon Bishop question and then lose his testimony?
• What happens when a Mormon Bishop's daughter comes out as lesbian and how does the family handle that?
• How does the Purves family rebuild and regroup to find joy and fulfillment outside of Mormon orthodoxy?
• And so much more...

Join us as this amazing and loving family becomes both strong and vulnerable to share the joys and challenges of their Mormon Faith Crisis!

On this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we travel to Davis, California to visit with the Purves family as they share their unique experience with a Mormon Faith Crisis.

In this interview we cover:

• The goodness that Mormonism brought Scott and Joanna as youth, including a nurturing community and a sense of purpose
• Scott and Joanna's decision to raise their family in Mormonism, culminating in the calling of Scott as Bishop
• The rewards and challenges of serving as a Bishop, and how the demanding service impacted Joanna and the rest of the family
• What made a Mormon Bishop question and then lose his testimony?
• What happens when a Mormon Bishop's daughter comes out as lesbian and how does the family handle that?
• How does the Purves family rebuild and regroup to find joy and fulfillment outside of Mormon orthodoxy?
• And so much more...

Join us as this amazing and loving family becomes both strong and vulnerable to share the joys and challenges of their Mormon Faith Crisis!

On this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we travel to Davis, California to visit with the Purves family as they share their unique experience with a Mormon Faith Crisis.

In this interview we cover:

• The goodness that Mormonism brought Scott and Joanna as youth, including a nurturing community and a sense of purpose
• Scott and Joanna's decision to raise their family in Mormonism, culminating in the calling of Scott as Bishop
• The rewards and challenges of serving as a Bishop, and how the demanding service impacted Joanna and the rest of the family
• What made a Mormon Bishop question and then lose his testimony?
• What happens when a Mormon Bishop's daughter comes out as lesbian and how does the family handle that?
• How does the Purves family rebuild and regroup to find joy and fulfillment outside of Mormon orthodoxy?
• And so much more...

Join us as this amazing and loving family becomes both strong and vulnerable to share the joys and challenges of their Mormon Faith Crisis!

On this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we travel to Davis, California to visit with the Purves family as they share their unique experience with a Mormon Faith Crisis.

In this interview we cover:

• The goodness that Mormonism brought Scott and Joanna as youth, including a nurturing community and a sense of purpose
• Scott and Joanna's decision to raise their family in Mormonism, culminating in the calling of Scott as Bishop
• The rewards and challenges of serving as a Bishop, and how the demanding service impacted Joanna and the rest of the family
• What made a Mormon Bishop question and then lose his testimony?
• What happens when a Mormon Bishop's daughter comes out as lesbian and how does the family handle that?
• How does the Purves family rebuild and regroup to find joy and fulfillment outside of Mormon orthodoxy?
• And so much more...

Join us as this amazing and loving family becomes both strong and vulnerable to share the joys and challenges of their Mormon Faith Crisis!

In this Mormon Stories Podcast episode we interview Liz Layton.  Liz has experienced much accomplishment and tragedy in her life as a millennial post-Mormon.  This includes becoming a professional dancer for the Utah Jazz, but also includes the loss of her orthodox Mormon faith, two divorces, and the death of two of her siblings due to suicide.

In this Mormon Stories Podcast episode we interview Liz Layton.  Liz has experienced much accomplishment and tragedy in her life as a millennial post-Mormon.  This includes becoming a professional dancer for the Utah Jazz, but also includes the loss of her orthodox Mormon faith, two divorces, and the death of two of her siblings due to suicide.

In this Mormon Stories Podcast episode we interview Liz Layton.  Liz has experienced much accomplishment and tragedy in her life as a millennial post-Mormon.  This includes becoming a professional dancer for the Utah Jazz, but also includes the loss of her orthodox Mormon faith, two divorces, and the death of two of her siblings due to suicide.