Mormon Stories Podcast

Επεισόδια

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  THRIVE Events in Rexburg San Antonio Boise and St George!!!! 15.09.2026 6λ

  Four THRIVE events are coming — Rexburg, San Antonio, Boise, and St. George — and John Dehlin wants to make sure you hear about them IN ADVANCE this time.THRIVE conferences are for former and transitioning members of high-demand religions. They're about community, healing, and growth after Mormonism — meeting people who get it, picking up tools for navigating a faith crisis, and realizing you are not alone and you are not crazy.REGISTER FOR ALL FOUR AT: https://thrivebeyondreligion.com---------------------------------------------------------------------THRIVE REXBURG — Sept. 18–19, 2026 — $19---------------------------------------------------------------------"Brewing a New Story"Friday, Sept. 18: meet and greetSaturday, Sept. 19: speakersOur FIRST-EVER THRIVE in Rexburg, Idaho.Speakers:• Britt Hartley (keynote) — No Nonsense Spirituality• Renae Peterson• Erika Nordfelt• Nan OsborneRegister: https://thrivebeyondreligion.com---------------------------------------------------------------------THRIVE SAN ANTONIO — Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 — $25---------------------------------------------------------------------9:30 AM – 5:00 PMWheatly Heights Sports Complex, Event Hall200 Noblewood Dr, San Antonio, TX 78220Speakers:• Alyssa Grenfell• Nathan Hinckley — singer and former bishop• Megan Conner• Elbert Fish• Meggan Hayes — Generally Unquotable / Mormon News NetworkRegister: https://thrivebeyondreligion.com---------------------------------------------------------------------THRIVE BOISE — Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026 — $29, INCLUDES LUNCH---------------------------------------------------------------------10:00 AM – 5:00 PMGalaxy/Wahooz Fun Center400 W Overland Road, Boise, ID 83642Speakers:• Dr. John G. Turner (keynote) — Professor of Religious Studies and History at George Mason University; author of "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet" and "Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet"; co-host of the Joseph Smith and Brigham Young podcast series with John Dehlin• Amy Faragher, LPC — clinical insights for navigating a faith crisis• Kolby Reddish — LDS Discussions• Andrew Propst — kidnapped while serving a mission in Russia; his story became the film "The Saratov Approach"Register: https://thrivebeyondreligion.com-----------------------------------THRIVE ST. GEORGE — March 5–7, 2027 — $45 for all three days-----------------------------------"Think Freely. Thrive Fully."Friday, March 5: 6:00 PM – 9:30 PMSaturday, March 6: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PMSunday, March 7: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMDixie Convention Center1835 South Convention Center Drive, St. George, UT 84790Our biggest THRIVE yet. Speakers:• Michael Foley — "Your Momma's So Mormon She Won't Come To This Session: My Adventures In Trying To Make Utah Laugh"• Chris Bartlett — "Behind the Mask: An Actor Questions His Programming"• Sally Osborne & Lena Osborne — "When Everything Changes: Staying Connected Through Faith, Identity, and Family Transformation"• Kolby Reddish — "How to Understand Different Approaches to Faith"• Dr. Christine Marie — "Stop Judging. Start Helping"• Nomz Bistline — "Stop Judging. Start Helping"• Dr. John Lundwall — "Secret Works: Magic, Memory, and the Making of the Book of Mormon"• Dr. Julie de Azevedo — "What I Kept When I Left: A Life of Thoughtful Integration"Meet content creators, shop the tables, and connect with influencers, podcasters, and authors. Book through our preferred hotel partners for 20% off your stay.Register: https://thrivebeyondreligion.comEvent details: https://www.stgeorgethrive.org------------------------------HOW TO REGISTER------------------------------All four events: https://thrivebeyondreligion.comTickets are priced only to cover the venue and food — usually $19 to $45.WANT TO ORGANIZE A THRIVE IN YOUR AREA?Email [email protected] or [email protected] and we will help you put one together.
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  "Idyllic" Mormons Choose Wonder - Mike And Michele Seamons Pt. 3 | Ep. 2195 14.09.2026 1ώ 59λ

  In Part Three of Mike and Michele’s story, the couple begins confronting serious concerns about Mormonism as their children struggle with missions, faith, and their place in the church. Mike becomes increasingly concerned about the challenges young Mormons are facing, and struggles to work with church leadership to keep them engaged in their faith.As they discover that the church is not working for their family in the same way anymore, they begin stepping further outside the Mormon community. They explore other Christian traditions and begin to consume media not run by the LDS church, such as the LDS Discussions podcast.Their journey raises difficult questions about authority, faith, family, and whether personal spiritual experiences can be trusted. They begin to question the difference between feeling “the Spirit” and experiencing awe or wonder simply as part of the human condition. In search of these answers, they find themselves searching for meaning outside of Mormonism.Today, Mike and Michele are focused less on having all the answers and more on exploration, connection, and helping others navigate the questions that come with changing beliefs. We hope that their story can be helpful to your search for wonder, as well!https://seekwonderway.substack.com___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  "Idyllic" Mormon Family - Mike And Michele Seamons Pt. 2 | Ep. 2194 14.09.2026 1ώ 59λ

  We are back with Michele and Mike Seamons in part 2 of this interview with the “Idyllic” Mormon family.In part 2, they detail how their picture of the Mormon dream can come with plenty of challenges. They build and lose businesses, move across the country multiple times, and repeatedly find themselves rebuilding their lives. Through it all, they respond by doubling down on their commitment to Mormonism and church service.Mike eventually finds himself serving as a bishop, where the responsibilities of counseling members and conducting disciplinary councils begin to change how he sees church leadership. At the same time, Michele’s relationship with the church begins to shift as music and other Christian influences introduce her to a different way of thinking about God.As their family and church lives continue to evolve, Mike and Michele begin confronting questions that will eventually force them to reconsider what faith looks like to them.https://seekwonderway.substack.com___________________YouTubeShow NotesAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  The "Idyllic" Mormon Upbringing - Michele & Mike Seamons Pt. 1 | Ep. 2193 14.09.2026 1ώ 59λ

  Today we welcome Michele and Mike Seamons to the podcast. Michele and Mike are a married couple who were both raised in the LDS faith and experienced what they describe as an “idyllic” Mormon upbringing.In Part 1, we begin with each of their backgrounds and what it was like to grow up in faithful LDS homes with supportive families, wards, and communities surrounding them. Michele was raised in Sandy, Utah, while Mike grew up outside of Los Angeles, California. We also discuss Michele’s mission experience and how the two eventually met at the MTC.In Part 2, we pick up with Mike’s mission story before moving into their early marriage and family life, business pursuits, and increasing involvement in the church. Mike serves in youth leadership and eventually becomes a bishop, while Michele serves in various roles, including Young Women's president. Eventually, Michele becomes more interested in mainstream Christianity through music and podcasts, leading her to begin viewing her Mormon faith differently.Then be sure to come back for Part 3, where we conclude their Mormon story and discuss where they stand with their faith today.This is a three part episode. You can find all three parts on our channel.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Brigham Young Sang In Tongues - Brigham Young Podcast Pt. 2 | Ep. 2192 09.09.2026 1ώ 59λ

  In the second episode of the Brigham Young Podcast, Dr. John Turner –author of Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet –joins us to explore Brigham Young’s transformation from a passionate and fiercely loyal follower of Joseph Smith into one of the most important leaders of the early Mormon movement. We follow Brigham through some of the most turbulent years of early Mormon history –from the Kirtland Safety Society and the formation of the Quorum of the Twelve to the Missouri conflict, the Kirtland Temple dedication, and his remarkably successful mission to England.Along the way, we explore Brigham’s personality, his spiritual experiences, his practice of speaking (and singing) in tongues, his unwavering loyalty to Joseph Smith, and the growing tensions within the early church. Why did Brigham continue defending Joseph when other prominent leaders were turning against him? And what made Brigham such an effective leader despite not fitting the traditional image of a great preacher? The episode also takes a closer look at one of the most important questions surrounding Brigham Young: What did he know about Joseph Smith’s early experiments with plural marriage? We discuss the Fanny Alger controversy, Martha Brotherton’s accusations, Brigham’s time in England, the question of “proto-polygamy,” and Brigham’s later claims about when he learned that plural marriage was divinely commanded. Rather than reducing Brigham Young to either a heroic Mormon prophet or a one-dimensional villain, this series attempts to understand him as a complicated historical figure –deeply  religious, shrewd, ambitious, loyal, sometimes harsh, and increasingly influential.If you wish to donate to support this series, please visit here: https://donorbox.org/brighamyoung___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Megachurch Pastor Turned Agnostic - Todd Phillips Pt. 2 | Ep. 2191 07.09.2026 1ώ 59λ

  What happens when a pastor can no longer believe the message he has spent his life preaching?In Part Two of our conversation with Dr. Todd Phillips, former megachurch pastor and creator of “The Deconstructed Pastor,” Todd continues his journey out of evangelical Christianity. After years of building his life around the Bible, he began confronting difficult questions surrounding his faith in the Bible, Jesus, and even God. Eventually, he reached a point where he could no longer reconcile what he was discovering with the beliefs he had once preached.Todd shares what happened as his faith unraveled following the conclusion of his nonprofit work. He describes the devastating experience of losing his relationship with God, and realizing he could no longer preach.His journey eventually led him to TikTok and social media, where he began sharing his story as “The Deconstructed Pastor.” Today, Todd hopes to help other “ex-vangelicals” navigate religious deconstruction and “shorten the pain curve” for those going through it themselves.Todd and John also discusses his changing views on hell, divine hiddenness, faith vs truth, religious psychology, morality without religion, and whether humanity needs religion. He reflects on valuing truth over community comfort, and his relationship with believers he once influenced.Dr. Todd Phillips is a former evangelical pastor who served at McLean Bible Church in Washington, D.C., and Lakepointe Church in Dallas. He also ran a nonprofit called The Last Well, which worked to bring clean water and Christianity to the people of Liberia. Today, he works in AI consulting while building his platform as “The Deconstructed Pastor.”Todd's donations links and social accounts can be found here.Also, as a special gift for Mormon Stories listeners, Todd has offered 2 FREE gifts - his "Deconstruction Guide" and "You Don’t Need to Fear Hell" course. Together, these resources are usually $34, so we are grateful to Todd for sharing these with our audience! https://stan.store/drtoddphillips/p/deconstruct-without-fear-2-free-guides___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Becoming a Megachurch Pastor - Todd Phillips Pt. 1 | Ep. 2190 07.09.2026 1ώ 57λ

  What would cause a megachurch pastor to lose his faith?In this episode of Mormon Stories Podcast, we sit down with former megachurch pastor Dr. Todd Phillips to explore his journey from a new Christian searching for a fresh start, to becoming a pastor and ministry leader, preaching to crowds of 10,000 people or more.Todd grew up without a strong religious background, but after finding Christianity in his twenties, he quickly immersed himself in evangelicalism. He went on to become a preacher and pastor at McLean Bible Church in Washington, D.C., and Lakepointe Church in Dallas. He eventually went on to direct a multi-million dollar nonprofit called The Last Well, which worked to bring clean water and Christianity to the people of Liberia. Todd walks us through the beliefs that once shaped his worldview, believing in Christianity as the one and only path to God. He also shares what it was like to build his life around those beliefs, rise through evangelical ministry, and eventually encounter questions that challenged the foundations of his faith.Along the way, Todd and John compare evangelical and LDS theology, discuss megachurch culture, and explore interesting theological questions/beliefs. This is Part One of Todd’s story, with more to come as he explores what happens when a pastor begins to question the beliefs he once devoted his life to.Todd now shares his experiences and insights online as “The Deconstructed Pastor.”Todd's donations links and social accounts can be found ⁠here⁠.Also, as a special gift for Mormon Stories listeners, Todd has offered 2 FREE gifts - his "Deconstruction Guide" and "You Don’t Need to Fear Hell" course. Together, these resources are usually $34, so we are grateful to Todd for sharing these with our audience! https://stan.store/drtoddphillips/p/deconstruct-without-fear-2-free-guides___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  LDS Church Caught Lying, Charlie Bird Breaking Point, Bishop Charged - Mormon News 9.4.26 | Ep. 2189 04.09.2026 1ώ 59λ

  On today’s episode of Mormon News, Meggan and John break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Charlie Bird says he is pulling back from sharing his journey to fatherhood after receiving horrific messages about his future family, including messages invoking LDS teachings. We look at the broader Mormon conversation surrounding Charlie and Ryan’s plans to become parents and where criticism of their family has gone.CHARLIE BIRD RESPONDS TO HORRIFIC BACKLASHhttps://www.instagram.com/p/DcqxX85mPeb/A former LDS bishop in Utah is facing serious criminal charges after an undercover investigation led police to search his phone. According to court documents, Eric Hans Monson has been charged with three counts of exploitation. We look at what investigators say they found and why police specifically raised concerns about his former Church leadership position.FORMER LDS BISHOP FACES FELONY CHARGEShttps://www.abc4.com/news/crimes-against-children/former-lds-bishop-csam-charges/The LDS Church’s massive investment portfolio is nearing another record high. New reporting from the Salt Lake Tribune looks at Ensign Peak’s latest numbers and what the Church’s stock holdings tell us about the continued growth of its financial reserves.ENSIGN PEAK NEARS ANOTHER RECORD HIGHhttps://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/08/28/lds-stock-fund-nears-record-high/The fight over the Heber Valley Utah Temple is heading to the Utah Supreme Court, and a Red Ledges resident is speaking publicly about the dispute and what it has meant for people living near the proposed temple site.HEBER VALLEY TEMPLE FIGHT HEADS TO UTAH SUPREME COURThttps://www.parkrecord.com/2026/08/31/red-ledges-resident-breaks-silence-ahead-of-utah-supreme-court-heber-valley-temple-arguments/Meanwhile, interest in the renovated Salt Lake Temple is enormous (or is it?). The Church says more than one million reservations have already been made for the public open house.ONE MILLION SALT LAKE TEMPLE TOUR RESERVATIONShttps://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/one-million-spaces-reserved-salt-lake-temple-tourAnd finally, Salt Lake City International Airport is adding a new Gateside by TSA PreCheck experience. We look at what’s changing and why the airport story is getting attention in Utah.SLC AIRPORT ADDS GATESIDE BY TSA PRECHECKhttps://www.sltrib.com/news/2026/09/02/slc-airport-adds-gateside-by-tsa/___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  The Brigham Young Podcast with John Turner - Pt. 1 | Ep. 2188 31.08.2026 1ώ 59λ

  In this new series on Mormon Stories Podcast, we’re joined once again by historian Dr. John Turner to take an in-depth look at one of the most important –and complicated –figures in Mormon history: Brigham Young. Dr. Turner is the author of Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet, his acclaimed 2012 biography of the second president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. John was recently our guest for an extensive series on his newer biography, "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet." In this episode, we begin at the beginning: Who was Brigham Young before he became the leader of the Mormon movement?John takes us through Brigham’s early life, his difficult relationship with his father, his exploration of different religious traditions, his attraction to spiritual gifts and “ecstatic worship,” and his eventual conversion to Mormonism. We explore the religious environment that shaped Brigham Young and the broader culture of early Mormonism, including speaking in tongues, visions, healings, prophecy, and other spiritual manifestations. We also examine Brigham’s relationship with his first wife, Miriam, his friendship with Heber C. Kimball, his early missionary experiences, and his first encounters with Joseph Smith. Along the way, we consider what made Brigham such a committed follower of Joseph Smith –and why Joseph recognized Brigham’s loyalty even though their relationship was very different from Joseph’s relationships with some of his other close associates. This episode offers a fascinating look at the making of Brigham Young before his transformation into the Mormon leader who would eventually guide thousands of Latter-day Saints across the American West.Some of the topics that we discuss in this first episode is Brigham’s childhood, the harsh treatment on the part of his father, Brigham’s Methodism and "ecstatic worship” along with his desire to find a church that had the gift of tongues, visions, healings, etc. We discuss the death of Brigham’s first wife Miriam and how he handled his children afterward. We discuss his friendship with Heber C. Kimball and his missionary efforts as an elder in the church. We also discuss Brigham’s friendship with Joseph Smith, his defense of Joseph, how he handled failed prophecies, and much more. If you wish to donate to support this series, please visit here: https://donorbox.org/brighamyoung___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Bloomberg Exposes Mormon Land Empire, Baseball Baptisms & More - Mormon News 8.28.26 | Ep. 2187 28.08.2026 1ώ 58λ

  For this weeks Mormon News Podcast,  John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes dig into what Bloomberg uncovered about the Church's growing real estate empire, plus warnings about "baseball baptisms" and the push for convert growth, concerns about the Church's new Sunday meeting schedule, the sentencing of a polygamous sect leader, and a new LDS strategy for bringing nonmembers into local meetinghouses.Bloomberg's investigation examines just how much land The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints owns across the United States and how its property holdings have grown. We look at the numbers, where that land is concentrated, and what the investigation reveals about the scale of the Church's real estate portfolio.Links:Bloomberg Digs Into the Church's Land Holdings: https://youtu.be/G0pU8s0hlJUHistorian Matthew Bowman warns against chasing membership growth at the expense of meaningful conversion, pointing to the infamous era of "baseball baptisms." What can that history teach us about today's emphasis on missionary numbers and Church growth?Links:Beware the "Baseball Baptisms": https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/08/26/be-wary-baseball-baptisms-quest/Changes are also coming to Sunday meetings. A new schedule means shorter classes and less transition time between meetings. Supporters see a more streamlined Sunday experience, while others worry about losing valuable time for discussion, connection, and community.Links:Is Sunday Church Getting Too Short?: https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/08/26/mormon-land-podcast-we-dissect-new/We also cover the sentencing of polygamous sect leader Samuel Bateman, who was already serving a lengthy federal prison sentence and has now received additional prison time in Arizona.Links:Polygamous Sect Leader Sentenced: https://www.mormonnews.com/story/polygamous-sect-leader-faces-sentencing-after-girls-found-in-trailer-jskgFinally, we look at the LDS Church's "Activity Sharing" program. Public-facing ward activities can appear in online searches and allow nonmembers to find local events and RSVP. The Church is encouraging wards to make activities more accessible to outsiders, while its own success stories show these community events can also lead to Sunday attendance and contact with missionaries. We look at how this fits with new research being conducted among nonmembers who attend LDS activities.Links:The Church's New Activity-Sharing Push: https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/activity-sharing-a-simple-way-for-latter-day-saints-to-invite-friends-to-church-ward-events___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Can Nauvoo Land Deeds Really Prove Polygamy? - LDS Discussions Pt. 82 | Ep. 2186 26.08.2026 1ώ 41λ

  What can Nauvoo land deeds actually tell us about Joseph Smith and the practice of plural marriage? In this episode of LDS Discussions, we take a close look at Nauvoo land records and examine claims that deeds issued to women –including women who were later identified as plural wives of Joseph Smith –provide evidence for Joseph Smith’s practice of polygamy. The records are fascinating, but they are also considerably more complicated than they might appear at first glance. We examine the legal and historical context surrounding Nauvoo property, including the difference between a grantee and a recognized landowner, quitclaim deeds, coverture, widow’s dower rights, property held in the  names of women and children, and the ways Joseph Smith and others used property arrangements to protect land from creditors and other legal complications. We also take a  closer look at individual cases involving Helen Mar Kimball, Sarah Ann Whitney, Flora Woodworth, Mary Elizabeth Rollins Lightner, Lydia Dibble Granger, Mercy Fielding Thompson, Philinda Myrick, Emma Smith, and others. Several of these women had connections to plural marriage, but that raises an important historical question: Does the existence of a deed help explain why a particular transaction happened, or does the deed itself provide evidence that polygamy was the reason for the transaction? Throughout the episode, we compare the deeds with tax records, William Clayton’s journal, bankruptcy proceedings, and other contemporary evidence to see whether the names and dates appearing on the deeds accurately reflect who actually owned, occupied, controlled, or benefited from the property. One of the key conclusions is that you cannot simply take Nauvoo land deeds at face value. A plural marriage may sometimes provide a possible explanation for a property transaction, but the transaction itself does not necessarily prove that a plural marriage existed. This episode explores the complicated gap between what was legally recorded, what people were actually doing, and what later historians assume those records mean.___________________YouTubeShow NotesAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: ​ Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology​ Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis​ Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  A Gay Mormon's Path to Peace - Eli McCann | Ep. 2185 24.08.2026 1ώ 57λ

  What happens when you spend your life trying to find your way in a religion that never seems to have a space for you? Today, Mormon Stories welcomes Eli McCann, attorney, writer, podcaster, and humor columnist for The Salt Lake Tribune, to hear insights into his upbringing as a gay man in the LDS faith.Eli knew from a young age that he was gay, but understood that there would never be a place for him as an openly gay man in Mormonism. He served a mission, held leadership callings, and became deeply involved in the church while largely keeping his sexuality to himself. Eventually, after moving to Palau and serving as a Young Men’s president, Eli reached a point where he could no longer reconcile his life with the church’s teachings about homosexuality.He shares what led him to stop attending, come out to his family, and ultimately resign his membership—including the memorable experience of resigning with a Mormon bishop on top of a Book of Mormon. We also discuss the 2015 LGBTQ+ policy, his evolving views on faith, and why he has chosen to remain in Utah despite his complicated relationship with Mormonism.Eli is now known for finding humor in the quirks of Mormon culture through his writing for The Salt Lake Tribune. His new book, We’re Thankful for the Moisture: A Gay Guy’s Guide to Mormon Faith, Family, and Fruit Preservation, collects many of those stories and explores the intersections of Mormon culture, family, faith, and life as a gay man in Utah.This is a conversation about faith, family, sexuality, and learning to move forward without losing meaningful parts of your past.You can purchase Eli’s new book here: https://www.signaturebooks.com/books/p/were-thankful-for-the-moisture___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  LDS Church Can't Keep its Members - Mormon News 8.21.26 | Ep. 2184 21.08.2026 1ώ 31λ

  This week on Mormon News, Dr. John Dehlin and Nemo the Mormon get stuck into the dramatic headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over the past 7 days.From a shooting at a funeral to the surprise re-emergence of Tim Ballard’s OUR,  this is your one stop shop for Mormon News every week.___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  The History of Tithing - LDS Discussions Pt. 81 | Ep. 2183 19.08.2026 1ώ 59λ

  In Episode 81 of the LDS Discussions series, we take a deep dive into the history of Mormon tithing –where the concept comes from, how it appears in the Bible and Book of Mormon, how Joseph Smith and the early Latter-day Saints understood it, and how the practice evolved into the modern LDS Church’s system of financial requirements. We begin with the biblical origins of tithing, examining passages from the Old and New Testament and asking whether the biblical practice of tithing actually resembles the transactional model taught by the modern Church. We then turn to the Book of Mormon and explore what it says about priestcraft, wealth, and religious leaders receiving financial support. From there, we trace the history of tithing in early Mormonism, including Joseph Smith’s financial requests, the 1838 tithing revelation, how early Saints actually contributed to the Church, and the significant differences between the original language surrounding consecration and the modern requirement to pay ten percent of one’s income. We also examine the controversial history surrounding Green Flake and the claim that an enslaved man was donated as tithing, the financial relationship between Brigham Young and the Church, and what the surviving historical records can –and cannot –tell us about the practice of tithing and labor tithes in early Utah. Finally, we look at the development of modern LDS tithing requirements, including when tithing became a requirement for temple recommends, the distinction between tithing and fast offerings, teachings about self-reliance, changes to tithing slips, and the Church’s long-standing lack of financial transparency to its membership. If you value episodes like this one, we ask that you show your support by donating to Mormon Stories Podcast! ___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Bishop and Stake President Conflict After a Mormon Faith Crisis - Coy Johnston | Ep. 2182 17.08.2026 3ώ 58λ

  Today we sit down with Coy Johnston, a longtime active member of the LDS Church, to explore what it looks like to question Mormonism without completely walking away.Coy grew up in Mesa, Arizona, served a mission in England, became a doctor, and spent his life deeply involved in the church. His faith began to shift as he studied scripture and biblical scholarship, and issues with early Mormon church history. He shares how learning more about church history changed his understanding of Mormonism and led him into a faith crisis that affected his family, callings, and relationship with church leaders.Rather than leaving, Coy began looking for ways to support other members who were going through similar struggles. He created a group called “Journeys,” where people could openly discuss their questions and doubts. When church leaders learned about the meetings, they asked him to stop holding them and eventually threatened to withhold his temple recommend if he did not dissolve the group.Other topics include:-Perfectionism and worthiness-Mormon history and biblical scholarship-Mixed-faith marriage-Bishop roulette-Supporting members with faith questionsHis story raises an important question: Can you remain Mormon while admitting you don't have all the answers?Show NotesYouTubeMormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:[email protected] Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord
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  FAIRLDS Warns of Satan, Girl Bishops?, BYU Marriage Decline - Mormon News 8.14.26 | Ep. 2181 14.08.2026 3ώ 36λ

  On today’s episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.FAIR Warns: Satan Wants You to LeaveThe 2026 FAIR Conference brought together LDS apologists and defenders of the Church for three days of presentations. We look at FAIR president Scott Gordon’s warning about the strategies he believes Satan uses to lead members away, including distrust of faithful sources and criticism of Church leaders.“Are There Any Girl Bishops?” The Friend Sparks a DebateA simple question in The Friend, the Church’s magazine for children, has sparked a much bigger conversation about women, priesthood authority, and why women cannot serve as bishops in the LDS Church.Marriage Rates Are Falling at BYUFewer BYU students are getting married, and the university is taking steps to help students meet and date. We look at the declining numbers and what they may reveal about changing expectations among young Latter-day Saints.Former Miss North Carolina USA Says Her Title Was Taken Over Her BeliefsBrittany Boltinhouse says her Miss North Carolina USA title was “ripped” from her because of her religious beliefs, while pageant officials dispute her account. We look at the controversy and the competing claims.LDS Podcaster Chandler Hendry Dies at 27Chandler Hendry, founder of the Restored Truth podcast, died following a multi-vehicle crash in Lehi, Utah. We discuss his unexpected death and his presence in the Latter-day Saint online community.Latter-day Saints React to New Church and Sunday Meeting InitiativesTwo Reddit discussions are raising questions about changes in LDS Sunday meetings and a new “Christ-Centered Latter-day Saints” initiative. We look at what is being reported and how former members are responding.Dallin H. Oaks Heads Abroad at 94President Dallin H. Oaks is preparing for his first international trip as president of the LDS Church as he turns 94. We discuss the trip and the extraordinary age of the Church’s current leadership.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  When a Child Questions Mormonism - Annie Marie | Ep. 2180 11.08.2026 3ώ 47λ

  What would cause a child to lose their LDS faith? We strive to answer this question in today's interview with TikTok star, Annie Marie. Annie is an ex-mormon content creator who has gained an audience from her satirical videos that mainly center around questions she had as a child growing up in the LDS faith. Today she sits down with John and Margi to share her full Mormon story, offer commentary on some of her most popular videos, and walk us through her creative process. Annie came from a strict Mormon upbringing, but when her parents divorced (and their temple sealing was canceled) it sparked a myriad of questions that she could never seem to find the right answers for. She opens up about how she struggled with her belief throughout her upbringing, how it later affected her marriage, and where she stands with spirituality today. Topics include:-Temple sealings & divorce in the church-Purity culture-CSA-Religious conditioning-Using humor to healWe know you will find this interview to be as fun and informative as we did!Follow Annie on TikTok here.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  YOU WILL STAY!, Ken Jennings, Arizona Ruling, Young Women Leaving | Mormon News 8.8.26 | Ep. 2179 08.08.2026 3ώ 13λ

  On today's episode of Mormon News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down another busy week of headlines involving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.We begin with a major Arizona Supreme Court ruling protecting clergy confidentiality when abuse is disclosed during religious confession. We'll discuss what the decision means, why it matters, and the broader questions it raises about protecting vulnerable people, religious freedom, and institutional accountability.Links:The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/aug/03/arizona-clergy-child-abuse-confessions-courtWe'll also discuss a new column from Jana Riess examining why more than half of young adult women raised in the LDS Church have now left, exploring the data behind the trend and what it may say about the future of Mormonism.Links:Religion News Service (Jana Riess): https://religionnews.com/category/opinion/columns/jana-riess/We'll react to Jeopardy! host Ken Jennings publicly reaffirming his support for transgender people after being pulled into an online controversy, and discuss why his comments have resonated with many current and former Latter-day Saints.Links:Them: https://www.them.us/news/ken-jennings-trans-rightsWe'll also look at a new documentary telling the story of WordPerfect, the Utah software company that helped transform Utah Valley into today's Silicon Slopes. We'll discuss the legacy of founders Alan Ashton and Bruce Bastian, and why this important chapter of Utah history deserves to be remembered.Links:KSL: https://www.ksl.com/article/51602368Finally, we'll react to a viral YouTube Short featuring Elder Corbridge that's been making the rounds online and share our thoughts on the conversation it sparked.Links:YouTube Short: https://youtube.com/shorts/pxgJiJqQTOs?si=jISqasfwWwHTWyZEThanks for joining us! If you enjoy Mormon News, Church history, thoughtful conversations, and nuanced discussions about Mormonism and faith, please like, subscribe, and share this episode.___________________YouTubeShow NotesAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Healing my Inner Child After Mormonism - Mindy Gledhill | Ep. 2178 03.08.2026 2ώ 11λ

  Today on Mormon Stories, we are thrilled to welcome back singer-songwriter Mindy Gledhill, who is returning to the podcast to share the stories behind her newest collection of songs, the PhoneBooth Sessions (vol. 1 & 2), which reflect on her childhood, adolescence, and life after stepping away from Mormonism.Along the way, she opens up about some of the early questions that challenged her faith and where she stands with her belief today. Mindy will also discuss how inner-child work has helped her heal and become more in-tune with her inner voice. Other topics will also include parenting, relationships, authenticity, and embracing uncertainty.Whether you've followed Mindy's music for years or are hearing her story for the first time, we know you will love this one!https://www.mindygledhill.com/tour___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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  Mormon Church Guilty of Securities Fraud? - LDS Discussions Pt. 80 | Ep. 2177 31.07.2026 2ώ 55λ

  In Episode 80 of our LDS Discussions series, Julia, Kolby, and Nemo the Mormon join together for a deep dive into one of the most significant financial controversies in modern Latter-day Saint history: Ensign Peak Advisors and the SEC’s investigation into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The discussion begins by examining what Ensign Peak Advisors is, why the Church created an enormous investment reserve, and whether maintaining such a fund is inherently problematic. From there, the panel walks through the timeline leading up to the 2019 whistleblower revelations and the 2023 SEC Order, exploring the Church's filing practices, the creation of 13 shell companies, and the legal findings that concluded the Church intentionally obscured the size of its investment portfolio. Along the way, we analyze statements from Church leaders including Roger Clarke, Christopher Waddell, Elder Ballard, Elder Packer, Joseph F. Smith, Lorenzo Snow, and others, comparing modern financial practices with historical teachings on tithing. We also discuss the evolution of tithing slips, the Church’s growing investment portfolio, estimates of annual tithing revenue, David Nielsen’s whistleblower allegations, and the ethical implications of the Church’s financial secrecy. Finally, the panel examines the SEC’s findings in detail, asking difficult questions about honesty, accountability, transparency, and whether a church that teaches integrity should be held to the same legal and ethical standards it expects of its members. This episode provides one of the most comprehensive examinations of the Ensign Peak controversy, combining historical documents, SEC records, Church statements, and primary sources to better understand what happened –and why it matters. If you enjoy these in-depth historical analyses, please like, subscribe, and share this episode. Your support helps us continue producing thoroughly researched content exploring the history and truth claims of Mormonism.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today⁠One-time or recurring donations⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠Venmo ⁠⁠PayPal ⁠Our Platforms:🌐⁠Mormon Stories Blog ⁠🎙️⁠Patreon ⁠✳️⁠Spotify⁠🍎⁠Apple Podcasts⁠🖼️⁠Instagram ⁠📱⁠TikTok ⁠🎮⁠Discord ⁠Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117