Эпизоды
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In this episode, Ben and Justine share their powerful and emotional journeys through Mormonism, immigration, family trauma, and healing. They discuss Ben's family's escape from political turmoil, their struggles with loss, and the lure of the Mormon doctrine of eternal families.
Ben faces racial and cultural challenges within the Church, battles self-worth issues, and grapples with the harm purity culture and missionary service caused.
Justine recounts her own upbringing in a strict Mormon household, the pressure of modesty culture, and the way Mormon ideals shaped her relationships and sense of self.
Together, they reflect on how they met, the impact of internalized racism, and their path toward authenticity, healing, and love — even as they confront the pain Mormonism left behind.
This is part 1 of a very special two-part Mormon Stories interview.
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At 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 theologySupport Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisisPromote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religionsYouTube
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In this powerful follow-up conversation, Britt Hartley returns to explore 10 practical and emotional steps to take during your faith deconstruction journey. From embracing anger and grief, to rediscovering your identity, setting boundaries, and finding peace in the unknown—this episode is a guide to healing, growth, and transformation.
Whether you're newly questioning or deep in the process, these insights will help you navigate deconstruction with compassion and clarity.
Topics include:
Grieving your old beliefs
Embracing uncertainty
Inner child & shadow work
Building authentic community
Setting loving boundaries
Learning to just be
Join us as we unpack the deep emotional layers of deconstruction and the tools that can truly support your journey.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:17 First: Anger, grief phase, etc. Lean into the anger
00:12:12 Second: Embracing what you don’t know
00:20:36 Third: Dating yourself
00:29:52 Fourth: Inner child work
00:37:11 Fifth: Shadow work
00:44:35 Sixth: Deculting
00:50:38 Seventh: Vulnerably reaching out to others
00:57:00 How men are doing in deconstruction vs. how women are doing
01:01:32 Eighth: Exploring human development
01:08:15 Ninth: Boundaries from a place of love
01:14:33 Tenth: Learning how to just be
01:19:00 Closing remarksShow Notes
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Пропущенные эпизоды?
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Jennifer Wilson shares her deeply personal journey from growing up in a devout Mormon family to questioning, deconstructing, and ultimately leaving her faith. She opens up about her family's polygamist history, her mission experience, marriage, leadership roles in the church, and the struggles that came with navigating faith transitions. From grappling with church expectations to finding newfound freedom and clarity, Jennifer reflects on how this journey has reshaped her identity, marriage, and parenting.Key Topics Covered: Growing up in a Mormon household & family history, missionary experiences & gender expectations in the church, marriage, motherhood & church leadership roles, doubts, faith crisis & leaving the church, Raising kids outside of Mormonism & rediscovering identity.Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about faith, change, and self-discovery. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!___________________At 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 donations: https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories Paypal: https://paypal.me/mormonstories Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6OgmoqJbOVRq-Lv1P7SzA/joinOur Platforms:🌐Mormon Stories Blog: https://www.mormonstories.org/episodes 🎙️Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories ✳️Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4sDzk7dRjODTSEqzZKZJzk?si=148b0efc1ccc4404&nd=1 🍎Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mormon-stories-lds/id312094772 🖼️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mormstories 📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mormonstoriespodcast 🎮Discord: https://discord.com/invite/kuX5p6yyjF Contact us:📧 [email protected]📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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In this episode, we explore 10 common pitfalls people face during religious deconstruction. From navigating relationships and parenting outside of organized religion to the challenges of psychedelics, intellectualism, and identity loss—this is a raw, honest conversation about life after faith. Whether you're just beginning your journey or deep in it, this discussion offers insight, validation, and guidance.
Key topics covered:
Why opening your marriage right after leaving religion may backfire
How to provide structure for your kids without religion
The psychedelic trap & chasing spiritual highs
The “missionary phase” of ex-belief systems
Finding meaning beyond religion, without clinging to new dogmas
The lifelong process of deconstruction
And much more, including Gen Z dating, chakras, free will, and dreams
Don’t miss her reflections on what she’s learned, what to avoid, and how to move forward with integrity and openness.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:44 These are things she's learned to be aware of as you are in the mess of religious deconstruction; it’s not a same thing
00:08:04 The first thing you should avoid: Opening your marriage soon after leaving your faith
00:16:32 Second: Providing order and structure for kids
00:22:37 Do kids need religion for structure and order?
00:34:15 Third: Psychedelic chasing
00:39:45 Four: Clinging to new beliefs
00:45:32 Reality is more magical than how we view reality
00:50:28 Five: Avoid the Missionary Phase. Sam Harris says: “No one is more ardent in their atheism than exMormons”
00:57:01 Six: Not recognizing the good in religion
01:04:57 Seven: Underestimating the hard work it is to replace religion
01:12:32 Eight: Underestimating that deconstruction is a lifelong process
01:18:11 Do we have free will?
01:28:32 Nine: Avoid finding new prophets
01:35:45 Ten: Overemphasis on intellectualism
01:42:53 Final thoughts
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After nearly two centuries of strict modesty standards, the Mormon Church has made a historic change—women’s garments now allow for exposed shoulders. In this in-depth panel, Mormon women unpack the significance of this shift. From the garments' Masonic roots and historical designs to the ways they’ve shaped modesty culture, sexuality, and control over women's bodies, this conversation dives deep. The panel also explores the social media response, health concerns, and the ongoing discomfort many women still face. With personal stories, historical context, and commentary on the new designs, this is a must-watch discussion on a topic rarely spoken about so openly.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:00 Introductions
00:18:15 Rules around garments
00:26:32 Modesty culture shaped by garments
00:34:10 Church doctrine around garments
00:39:50 Modesty policing among members - “garment checking”
01:06:00 The effect of garments on a couple’s sex life
01:25:00 Photos of the new garment designs
01:32:00 How would they have received this info as an active believer?
01:51:00 Nancy’s final comments
02:02:35 @AndreaFausett video
02:09:28 @VikaFroclieh video
02:18:00 Video of woman walking into church in new garments
02:25:25 Discussion on if tight fitting clothing is okay
02:27:00 “Gen Z is different”
02:28:10 Third @AndreaFausett video
02:332:26 Sharing superchat comments
02:34:54 @NicoleEversten video
02:36:25 Second @VikaFroclieh video
02:42:30 @Haleyrawle video
02:51:20 @Exponentii_blog video (Abby’s video)
02:55:32 Final thoughts
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In Part 2 of our story, Kyle opens up about his life growing up in the Two by Twos faith — from a childhood shaped by pressure to "uphold the family name," to navigating chronic illness and suppressing his passions for music and basketball in order to prioritize church. We talk about the expectations around professing young, the control over dating, marriage, and even parenting — including the harmful encouragement of corporal punishment.
As cracks began to form during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kyle and Kari found themselves questioning everything they believed. From hidden doubts, religious trauma, and Kari’s journey of discovering her bisexuality, to the couple’s darkest moments and eventual transformation, this episode dives deep into how they began rebuilding their lives outside the 2x2 world.
We also discuss the emerging abuse allegations within the Two by Twos church, the beginnings of their Ex-Two by Two support group, and the broader fight for transparency and accountability in a faith that claims to have no organization at all. This is a raw, emotional, and revealing chapter of their deconstruction journey.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:02 Kyle’s background & upbringing as a 2x2
00:16:17 What happens when a child “professes”?
00:29:06 Feeling immense pressure to stick to the gospel
00:34:21 His views on dating at the time
00:44:40 2x2 Wedding
00:48:23 Were told by multiple people the needed to “break their kids” - corporal punishment very big among 2x2
00:56:40 How did 2x2 members look at covid/the vaccine/masks?
01:12:49 Kari told Kyle she was atheist
01:26:24 Kyle had the feeling that he just ran off a cliff
01:37:21 Kari realized, if it feels like the only way out is death, it is not a healthy religion - realized he was giving too much to something that was not giving back
01:46:09 Kari got her ears pierced for the first time - was a very liberating experience
01:47:15 “The Ex 2x2 Support Group”
01:53:38 Highly respected overseer found dead in a hotel room
02:15:25 “If there is no organization, there is no organization to sue”
02:29:55 ‘How do you shut down an organization that doesn't exist?”
02:35:02 How much money does the 2x2 church have? How can it be tracked?
02:42:00 How do they try to gather with ex-members?
02:53:15 Conclusion
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Kari & Kyle Hanks share their journey of leaving the secretive 2x2 church, a religious group with no official name, written doctrine, or corporate structure. They discuss their upbringings, struggles with faith, the exclusivity of the religion, and the trauma they endured. From discovering the church’s hidden history to creating a support group for ex-members, they expose abuse scandals, strict doctrines on women, and emotional suppression within the group. Their deconstruction was influenced by the Mormon Stories Podcast, COVID-19, and personal revelations about belief, identity, and autonomy. Now, they advocate for informed consent and support those leaving high-control religions.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:40 Kari & Kyle introduce themselves and the Two by Twos group
00:14:04 They do not have a written doctrine, it is all word of mouth
00:21:59 The founding of Two by Two - founded by William Irving
00:28:28 It wasn’t until 1905 that the group started preaching exclusivity
00:37:52 Irving is kicked out of the church, although some still stay loyal to him. Another splinter group.
00:49:50 Three meetings a week
01:00:46 Background of their theology/doctrine
01:09:02 Discussion of Heaven & Hell
01:17:04 Kari’s background in the church
01:23:17 Growing up as a 2x2 girl
01:30:30 How does the group refer to themselves?
01:38:43 Never having the language to describe her feelings or sexuality
01:42:09 Higher education was discouraged for many, especially women
01:54:17 Emotional manipulation in high demand religions
02:24:47 2x2s very politically conservative, but are not typically involved politically
02:27:08 When did she start to think she was in a cult?Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!
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After five years of reflection, Kate opens up about her journey growing up in a strict Mormon household, serving a mission in Argentina, and working for the LDS Church. She shares pivotal moments of doubt, her experiences in church administration, and the troubling realities she uncovered in the Confidential Records department. From questioning church discipline policies to witnessing firsthand how the institution handles abuse cases, Kate's story reveals the struggles and insights that ultimately led her to leave the church. Join us as she discusses faith, disillusionment, and life after Mormonism.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:00 Beginning
00:03:40 Kate Lyn’s Mormon story begins
00:10:20 Confessing "sins" to her bishop
00:16:44 Decides to serve a mission
00:30:37 Hardest parts of mission
00:39:58 “Golden investigator” on mission was con man
00:47:33 Started working for the church
00:49:00 Worked with high level leaders
01:14:25 People trying to steal from the church
01:18:53 Confidential Records department
01:22:46 Reading about bad things in the discipline documents
02:13:12 Becoming PIMO (physically in mentally out"
02:15:56 Woman excommunicated for sleeping with her bishop at 14 years old
02:24:37 “I don't think I would have left the church, if I didn’t work for the church”
02:39:40 On Mormons who look down on people
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On March 12, 2025, Church educator and BYU professor Jared Halverson released an Instagram short where he stated: “One of the statistics that has worried me the most of late, comes from a survey that was done in 2023 and it’s suggesting that for the first time that I can think of, more women are leaving religion than men are.” Is this true? Why are more women leaving Mormonism than men are? Join us today as we gather with Katie Rich (author of Fifty Years of Exponent II), Amy McPhie Allebest (of the Breaking Down Patriarchy YouTube channel), and Abby Maxwell Hansen (who was threatened with excommunication for her profile on Ordain Women in 2013 and an Exponent II blogger since 2019), as well as writer and columnist Jana Riess to discuss this growing phenomenon.Jared Halverson is an associate professor of Ancient Scriptures and served for over 20 years in the Church Education System. Halverson earned his BA in History and MA in Religious Education. He has been a featured speaker in devotionals as well as in academic settings. He is the host of the YouTube channel and podcast titled “Unshaken.”You can view Jared Halverson’s original video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TevsIrw1nqsShow Notes: https://www.mormonstories.org/why-are-women-leaving-the-mormon-church/
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:00 Beginning00:01:50 Introducing the panelists00:05:40 Amy personally knows Jared Halverson00:12:50 Jared Halverson background00:16:24 Clip - Jared Halverson on why women are leaving the Church00:22:19 Reactions to Jared Halverson’s clip00:37:55 How lessons in church are ALL focused on men instead of the women00:40:31 The definitions of patriarchy 00:45:07 Six women’s names in the Book of Mormon00:49:00 What is Exponent II and Ordain Women?00:55:12 Women going to Priesthood session in 201301:05:25 Comments from Halverson’s original cilp01:12:25 This lesson from Halvereson was focused on Emma Smith01:23:30 “I don’t want an unshakable faith” I want to adjust and learn and change01:33:40 LDS Retention Rates over time01:40:00 Efficacy by gender01:45:10 Current members’ theological certainty over time02:14:00 Are women leaving for worldly reasons?02:20:04 Clip from Julie Hanks and Britt Hartley02:24:40 Jared’s full apology 02:29:48 Reactions to Jared’s apology02:35:25 How to have better apologies02:46:20 Abby shares personal experiences about being a woman in the church, etc.02:56:15 How impactful the exMormon internet has become03:01:20 Final wordsMormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!
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Today we are re-introducing Sandra Tanner to a new generation of Mormons, exMormons, and never-Mormons. Both Sandra and her husband Jerald have strong Mormon backgrounds. When he was only eighteen, Jerald began to have doubts about his faith. When they began dating, Sandra Tanner also began to doubt. Throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s Jerald and Sandra Tanner were among the first to begin publishing on the problems with Mormon history and its truth claims. They opened a bookstore called the Utah Lighthouse Ministry and began publishing their research. Today we are going to talk about their discoveries on topics such as changes to the Book of Mormon, the problems with the Book of Abraham translation, the Kinderhook plates, how the Church covered up problematic parts of its history, and how they impacted hundreds of people in and out of the Mormon church. You won’t want to miss this episode!
Show Notes
YouTube
00:04:00 Topics we are going to cover today
00:05:24 Changes to the text of the Book of Mormon
00:25:40 The usage of the seer stone and an “exact” translation
00:32:00 The Book of Mormon as a revelation rather than a translation
00:33:45 Problems with the Book of Abraham translation
00:49:12 The Church came up with the Catalyst Theory
00:54:00 The Kinderhook Plates issues
01:14:10 Other “Cover-ups” that the church has done
01:28:00 Nephi vs. Moroni
01:31:55 Changes to D&C
01:38:10 Discussion of Michelle Stone’s claims & Sandra’s response
01:54:55 “We felt the obligation to set the record straight”
01:59:00 How does Sandra respond to critics that say she should continue to deconstruct Christianity
02:25:20 Conclusion
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After being inspired by the Mormon Stories Paul brothers episode, Dave courageously shares his powerful journey through faith, family struggles, and self-discovery. From his upbringing in a traditional Mormon household to navigating complex questions about church history, LGBTQ+ issues, and personal loss, Dave's story is one of resilience and hope. He reflects on his brother's tragic passing, his evolving beliefs, and why he ultimately chooses to stay active in the church today. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about faith, doubt, and finding meaning through it all.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:03:12 Dave’s intention for coming on Mormon Stories
00:08:03 Dave’s mormon story begins - explaining family background
00:13:41 Story of backpacking with his brother and having an accident
00:24:46 Dave’s mission to Warsaw, Poland
00:34:50 Life after his mission - dating and marriage
01:01:05 Dave’s experience with a Roman Catholic woman that inspired him - introduced him to interracial marriage
01:13:30 Dave thought “If I remain silent now, I am a hypocrite to my own testimony” (regarding his friend leaving the church)
01:21:04 Why do we call it going down the rabbit hole when it is actually coming out into the light?
01:45:00 “Does God help amputees?” argument
02:00:50 “There has to be recognition that what we were taught was not the truth”
02:17:30 Why John Dehlin does Mormon Stories
02:46:17 Elder Holland “greatest missionary of all time” experience
02:59:55 Dave discusses the Book of Mormon
03:36:44 Dave’s younger brother, Dan, passed away in 2023
03:44:19 What are the main reasons that he chooses to stay active in 2025?
04:01:26 What is his response to the fact that the church does a lot of harm to people as well? How does he personally work through this
04:11:30 Dave feels that there are real advancements being made in the church currently
04:20:24 Conclusion
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In this episode, we’re joined by historian and mapmaker John Hamer as he responds to Michelle Stone’s recent claims that Joseph Smith did not practice polygamy. Drawing from historical records, primary sources, and his extensive research, John offers context and analysis on one of the most debated topics in Latter-day Saint history. Join us for an insightful conversation unpacking the complexities of Joseph Smith’s involvement in early Mormon polygamy.
John Hamer is an American-Canadian historian who has focused primarily on Mormon history and has published a number of books on the topic, including Scattering of the Saints: Schism Within Mormonism and House of the Lord: The Story of the Kirtland Temple. John Hamer was raised in the Mormon Church, left the religion and joined the Community of Christ Church in 2010 and now serves as a pastor in their Toronto Congregation.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:50 Michelle Stone
00:01:50 John Hamer has been on MSP eleven times at least
00:03:35 Background for John Hamer
00:11:30 Why would the Community of Christ have an interest in this topic?
00:22:07 A Golden Age of Disinformation
00:30:20 Personal Investment in Disinformation
00:31:45 Why do people prefer disinformation?
00:35:35 False Equation as the Basis
00:37:35 Rejection of Expertise
00:43:47 Holding Beliefs in Contradiction to Evidence
00:45:53 Religious Propositions - such as flat earthers
00:51:41 Solomon Spaulding Theory for the Book of Mormon
01:01:35 Historians regardless of affiliation conclude that Joseph Smith practiced polygamy
01:04:40 Testimonies of Every Type of Witness
01:09:17 Why Credit This Conspiracy Theory?
01:15:30 “Lying for the Lord” Joseph didn’t think he was lying
01:24:45 Lying for the Lord about Polygamy timeline
01:32:10 Joseph Smith III and the story of the wedge
01:37:19 Michelle Stone and the broad rejection of expertise
01:42:00 Apologetic Lack of Methodology
01:48:?? Uphold Knowledge Not Truth Claims
01:52:20 Questions for John Hamer on the topic of polygamy
02:07:46 The text of D&C 132, it has the context of the time
02:11:40 Temple Lot Case
02:19:30 John Hamer’s final words for the show
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New research by PhD student Colby Townsend reveals striking connections between The Book of Mormon and Adam Clarke’s Bible Commentary, a widely used biblical resource in Joseph Smith’s time. In this episode, we explore how Smith engaged with Clarke’s insights, made textual modifications, and reframed biblical passages to fit his theological vision. Was Smith restoring lost scripture, or was he influenced by contemporary scholarship?
Show Notes
YouTube
00:11:35 Summary of Joseph Smith using the Adam Clarke Commentary
00:17:06 During this time, this is NOT considered plagiarism
00:19:55 The new article by Colby Townsend
00:23:24 Clip of Hayley talking about Joseph Smith using the Bible Commentary
00:29:45 What were we taught about how the Book of Mormon was produced?
00:30:17 Quote from David Whitmer on the translation through the seer stone
00:35:00 The Expansion Theory
00:40:26 Quote from Emma on the Book of Mormon translation
00:42:33 Quote from Martin Harris on it being a direct translation
00:44:00 There is no account from Oliver Cowdery on the translation process; Oliver was also willing to lie
00:44:51 Clip of Brad Wilcox on how the Book of Mormon was translation
00:48:08 Background of Colby Townsend
00:50:08 Quotes from the article
00:57:55 Joseph used other Bible Commentaries
01:02:00 Conclusion from Colby Townsend’s article
01:07:40 Clip of the the Bible not having plain and precious things being removed
01:09:25 Clip - The Book of Mormon is to bring back the things lost from the Bible
01:11:20 2 Nephi 11:2 Nephi talks about the importance of Isaiah
01:22:43 Quote from the Colby’s article about how Joseph was well versed in the Bible
01:24:55 Dan Vogel’s theory about the presence of Isaiah in the Book of Mormon
01:26:14 Colby Townsend discussing Joseph and Methodism
01:29:25 Adam Clarke’s Biblical Commentary
01:33:35 Joseph’s access to Clarke
01:40:00 Comparing The Book of Mormon to the Adam Clarke Commentary
01:49:35 Joseph copying both the KJV and then Adam Clarke’s commentary
01:58:38 Next example in Isaiah 50:2 “their fish is dried up”
02:12:20 The example of Isaiah 2: 12-16 “cedars and oaks” and “high mountains and lofty hills”
02:18:45 Isaiah 9:3 “thou hast increased their joy”
02:24:20 Gerardo found his own examples
02:32:24 Examples in Isaiah 14:3 “in that day”
02:38:59 Isaiah 49:1 “O ye distant lands”
02:48:10 Example Isaiah 29:11 “read it, for it is sealed up”
02:56:50 If this is the most correct book why was so much of it changed?
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In this heartfelt episode, Kevin and Jennifer share their inspiring journey through their Mormon upbringing, missions, and eventual faith transition. They discuss navigating doubts, supporting their gay and transgender children, and redefining what love and family mean. From facing church pressures to embracing authenticity, their story highlights resilience, acceptance, and the power of unconditional love. Don't miss this moving conversation about finding peace and purpose beyond organized religion.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:05:25 Kevin’s story begins
00:14:20 Kevin met with general authority Paul H. Dunn to get approved for his mission
00:27:58 Jennifer’s Story begins
00:36:11 They met again with Paull Dunn about getting married in the temple
00:48:38 Defining their own gender roles in their marriage
01:01:18 Concerns with paying tithing
01:09:00 Teenage son struggling with p*rn and coming out as gay
01:17:48 Their gay son decided to serve a mission; he was told his mission will “cure him of his gayness”
01:30:00 Mission president refused to let him go home, and had possession of his passport
01:38:00 Kevin told his son “never try to make the church work for you - it never will”
01:51:55 Their gay son says that if he was not able to leave the mission he may have committed suicide
02:08:50 Their daughter tells them she is done with the church; she experienced love bombing
02:12:50 Kevin asks his mom, “If the church wasn't true would you want to know” - she says no
02:16:50 “If there is a place in the church for my gay son, we will reconsider”
02:30:40 Discussing transgender issues in the church
02:40:48 Why do a lot of ex-Mormons turn to atheism after leaving the church?
02:28:20 Has the way that they see “love” and “family” changed over the years? What do they mean for them now?
02:56:23 Final thoughts
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Lori Vallow Daybell was interviewed on NBC/Dateline Exclusive. Keith Morrison sat down with convicted murderer and Mormon mom, Lori Vallow, to talk about her case. Her two children, Tylee and J.J. were last seen in September of 2019 and she and her new husband Chad Daybell were arrested and charged for their murder. During the Dateline interview, Lori said that she and Chad Daybell were going to be exonerated because of Jesus. “I have seen things in the future that Jesus showed me when I was in heaven.” She went on to say that “Jesus is a funny guy and a wonderful person that loves everybody and especially loves her.” Lori has long been desirous to appear on Dateline and finally got her wish. She is also charged with conspiracy in the attempted murder of her niece’s ex-husband in another case.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:30 Lauren Mathias, Megan Conner, Gerardo and John
00:10:00 She went in surprised, she’d heard most of it, but was surprised at Lori’s anger
00:17:50 Gerardo feels the interview would have been different with someone with a cult background
00:19:25 Did the interview show us the real Lori Vallow?
00:29:50 Lori is trying to lay groundwork for blaming Tylee for JJ’s death
00:34:00 Discussing the evidence that Tylee was killed weeks before JJ
00:47:40 Lori claiming that she met Jesus
00:51:25 Polling the audience about weather Lori Vallow believes this is true
01:09:30 Where do Chad’s beliefs begin and end?
01:12:05 Lori bringing in the spare tire and the car chair
01:25:00 We didn’t see much of the 90 minute interview between Lori and Keith
01:29:55 What Keith did that Lauren did not like
01:37:00 Was JJ asleep or was he already dead?
01:39:30 How Mormons view death and how Lori did not have a lot of grief or sadness in this
01:41:50 Lori saying that Tammy loves her and she loves Tammy
01:55:20 It was clearly disturbing to see Alex and Chad unloading a pickup truck
02:05:55 Alex’s death - was it natural causes or a murder?
02:18:00 Harmful places in Visions of Glory
02:19:55 Mormon beliefs that play into this crime
02:31:00 Other individuals who killed their children because they thought their children were possessed
02:39:00 Lauren being a members of the church
02:49:45 Lori saying that she’s right and “I told you so”
03:18:30 Keith pointed out that Lori was giving parenting advice
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Dana shares her personal journey of growing up in the Mormon church, navigating mental health challenges, and eventually deconstructing her faith. From her Mormon upbringing and mission experience to questioning societal and religious expectations, Dana's story explores themes of self-discovery, the impact of religion on her life, and the search for meaning beyond traditional beliefs. After leaving the church, Dana delves into topics like mental health, fertility, relationships, and motherhood, offering a candid perspective on her path toward healing and personal growth. This channel is a space for open discussion on faith, identity, and life after Mormonism.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:05:00 Dana’s Mormon Story begins
00:17:00 What examples did she see of women in the church?
00:21:34 It was out of the ordinary to see women with careers
00:38:23 She was reported to the Bishop and her parents that she had experimented with cutting
01:06:30 Dana’s mission experience service in Atlanta, Georgia
01:12:22 She didn't love the temple experience - was “underwhelming”
01:24:24 David Archuleta was at the MTC during the same time
01:32:51 Dana knew very soon that she wanted to leave the mission early and she had to fight to go home
01:38:27 Dana Decided to go to BYU
01:56:25 Felt pressure to be married by the time she finished BYU
02:02:17 Dana to tell her parents that they could not be married in the temple and her mother told her “He’s taken everything from you”
02:18:07 Mormon therapist asked her to consider if she would be open to dating a non-Mormon
02:29:50 Dana lists the ways the church failed her - the church makes promises it can’t keep
02:41:20 Began to research severe PMS and PMDD, and learned that she suffered from it
02:47:02 Dana decided to have a baby by herself - very radical in Mormonism
03:08:00 Dana feels that she was a better foster parent as an ex-Mormon
03:14:40 Deconstructing the idea of “motherhood” in Mormonism
03:27:18 Dana focusing on her PhD
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When vlogger Ruby Franke was arrested for child abuse in August 2023, it shocked millions who had followed her family’s seemingly perfect life on YouTube. But behind the wholesome image was a much darker reality. With counselor Jodi Hildebrandt’s influence, the Franke family spiraled into a nightmare. Now, in Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke, the Frankes’ eldest children, Shari and Chad, and Ruby’s husband, Kevin, speak out for the first time. In this episode of Mormon Stories, we react to this gripping series, unpacking the shocking revelations and what they say about family, control, and the dangers of social media.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:02:45 Curious Case of Judi Hildebrant
00:22:45 “Mormon Mommy Bloggers”
00:30:40 Kevin is also a victim of an abuser
00:48:50 Ruby thinks a happy family is an obedient family
01:10:57 Ruby’s channel was “Advancing the image of the church”
01:26:00 Pressure in Mormonism to find a partner that is acceptable by church standards
01:56:49 The Franke kids begin to shut down to the camera
02:02:26 Ruby tells Chad: “Fake being happy right now”
02:14:17 Who is the “Devil in the Family” representing?
02:30:20 “The beanbag incident” with Chad’s bed being taken away
02:40:42 Shari saying Chad got “beaten” and had to help him clean up blood off the walls
03:01:21 Kevin’s initial reaction to ConneXions - “This is a cult”
03:23:20 Lauren’s reaction to Jodi’s house: “They had Costco inside this house”
03:28:00 The LDS church could be shutting this dogma down but they don't
04:04:00 When Jodi is possessed its a feature, when the kids are possessed its a bug
04:31:10 Jodi Gave Ruby permission to be this way
04:49:40 Shari calls the police for the first time to do a wellness check on the kids
04:58:54 The younger daughter found in the closet - wasn't even able to talk
05:17:50 “Takes an exceptional lack of empathy” for a mother to do this
05:25:11 Assessment of how Kevin let this happen
05:41:30 Sometimes families like these can be more susceptible to manipulation
06:07:00 Become cult informed! Become born again to your own intrinsic knowledge
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In this long awaited interview, James Huntsman, a successful businessman and member of the Huntsman family, joins John Dehlin and fraud attorney Mark Pugsley to discuss his high-profile fraud lawsuit against the LDS Church—how he lost his LDS faith, why he pursued a fraud lawsuit to get a tithing refund, what he learned, and why he has no regrets.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:00:49 Brief overview of James Huntsman's lawsuit
00:07:27 Family background info
00:18:50 Served a mission at 18
00:22:21 Discussion of a kidnapping in their family
00:36:27 Emergence of Ensign Peak & church investments
00:49:58 Cracks start developing in James’ faith
01:03:03 What led to him deciding to file the suit
01:09:35 The downsides of him suing
01:17:00 Comparing the organized structure of his family’s business to the disorganization of the church
01:28:55 What sparked his desire to sue the church
01:37:00 “It was a very personal battle for me”
01:48:40 Statute of limitations for fraud
01:54:00 Everyone now knows how much the church has - floodgates of awareness have been opened to the churches bad financial dealings
02:07:00 James has no intention of damaging the church
02:14:15 The church today does not need members tithing
02:26:00 How did they feel after they filed?
02:44:20 Are churches protected from committing fraud
02:58:00 James feels relieved that it is all over, and they can talk about it now
03:11:29 Final thoughts & Conclusion
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For nearly two centuries, Joseph Smith’s involvement in polygamy has been a point of controversy. Historians and more recently, LDS leaders, have affirmed that the Mormon prophet took dozens of wives. But a growing movement within the Church is challenging that narrative, arguing that Smith was a monogamist—and that polygamy was a later invention used to justify the actions of Brigham Young and other church leaders.
One of the most vocal advocates of this perspective is Michelle Stone, creator of 132 Problems: Revisiting Mormon Polygamy, a YouTube channel with nearly 120,000 subscribers. A lifelong member of the LDS Church, Michelle once had a strong testimony of polygamy, believing it was divinely inspired. But everything changed ten years ago when her husband questioned whether polygamy was ever truly of God. Determined to prove him wrong, Michelle embarked on a deep dive into historical records—only to find herself questioning whether Joseph Smith practiced polygamy at all.
Now, she joins Mormon Stories to share her research, her faith journey, and why she believes the Church has it wrong on one of the most controversial chapters in its history.
Show Notes
YouTube
00:05:22 Why we want to have Michelle on
00:15:48 Michelle’s great-grandfather was told by the president of the church to go to Mexico to get a second wife
00:35:07 Her grandfather was called to be a mission president in Tonga, leaving behind other wives
00:48:56 She was never taught that Joseph didn’t practice polygamy
01:05:00 Things made more sense once she realized there was problems in church history
01:14:00 Trauma of losing a child at the hospital in 2020 during the pandemic
01:24:00 Had an experience where she felt that she saw her daughter grown up
01:56:48 Michelle was devastated by the Nov 2015 LGBTQ Policy
02:04:50 Discussion of polygamy in the BOM
02:14:50 Michelle had a second faith crisis in 2020
02:32:33 When did she start her YouTube channel “132 Problems”?
02:43:34 God saying in the BoM that polygamy is an abomination
02:56:01 Has she ever decided differently than what god “commanded”?
03:18:15 Discussion on RLDS church and why they split from the LDS church
03:19:41 Michelle is asking individuals to “hold a little space” for this new theory
03:31:54 Her episode on Emma changed her mind
03:49:20 “I have become more confident in my stance since I started speaking out”
04:16:57 Michelle’s thoughts on Fanny Alger
04:39:45 Why were there rumors of polygamy going on in the church in 1835?
05:00:40 Questions on the Nauvoo Expositor
05:33:00 How can the church be true if the original men made so many mistakes?
05:40:50 What are her thoughts on the church maybe excommunicating her?
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In December 2024, the Mormon Church released a new chapter in the children’s Doctrine and Covenants Stories on the topic of polygamy. In that chapter they discuss how God sometimes commands his people to live polygamy and how hard it was for Joseph Smith to obey. The chapter also discusses how Joseph’s wife Emma did not want her husband to marry other women. Children were even taught that some of the brethren were arrested and put in prison for living polygamy.
After the release of that chapter many people spoke up, criticizing the church for this new content. Many believed these stories were too heavy for children and that by releasing this chapter the Mormon Church was actively teaching a story of sexual assault and grooming.
Today we learned that the church changed this chapter. Certain phrasing was removed as well as entire sections of the chapter. Is this due to online criticism of the church teaching children polygamy? Does the Mormon Church cave under pressure? Join us today as John, Julia (from Analyzing Mormonism), and Alyssa Witbeck discuss these changes.
YouTube
Show Notes
00:07:55 Clip - Criticism forces the church to change
00:25:36 Clip - Nathan Hinckley talking about them using the word “hard”
00:26:15 Comparing the original and the new version
00:35:20 Clip - Is God okay with forced polygamy?
00:36:55 Comparing the changes on the second image
00:42:20 Clip - “The Mormon church is participating in sexual assault”
00:53:46 Clip - Michelle Stone on Emma Smith00:56:10 In the new version this section has been completely taken out
01:01:58 Clip - “How did this get through the review process?”
01:15:22 Clip - Mormon leaders went to prison01:19:24 The last panel did not change on Woodruff’s manifesto
01:26:08 Polygamy is still hard on women today in an eternal aspect
01:36:25 What was the 2015 Exclusion Policy and how the church rolled it back
01:32:40 Answers from the Church History Survey
01:48:17 The story of Zina Huntington
01:50:30 Clip - Can consent be given in a Mormon context?
01:54:55 This is a positive change overall
02:03:10 What is it that causes people to question their faith?
02:06:11 Clip - “A faith that blinds you is problematic”
02:08:25 Final thoughts
___________________
At 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 theology
2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis
3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions
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