Logo

    Mormon Stories - LDS

    Mormon Stories is an attempt to build understanding between and about Mormons through the telling of stories in both audio and video formats.
    en-us1928 Episodes

    People also ask

    What is the main theme of the podcast?
    Who are some of the popular guests the podcast?
    Were there any controversial topics discussed in the podcast?
    Were any current trending topics addressed in the podcast?
    What popular books were mentioned in the podcast?

    Episodes (1928)

    1874: BYU-Idaho Disinvites Jazz Professor for his Loss of LDS Belief - Ryan Nielsen

    1874: BYU-Idaho Disinvites Jazz Professor for his Loss of LDS Belief - Ryan Nielsen

    World renowned Jazz musician and professor Dr. Ryan Nielsen was recently disinvited from speaking at BYU-Idaho jazz fest as punishment for telling his story on Mormon Stories podcast.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link

    Additional Resources mentioned in the episodes:

    • Ryan's AMAZING faith crisis/transition Reading/Podcast list can be found here, and has also been included below, after the video and audio links.  This is probably the most impressive and thoughtful resources list I've ever seen for Mormon/religious faith transitions.
    • Holly's Art: https://www.artbyholly.com/abstract.html  -- This link goes straight to the art Holly has done related to her faith transition, and her reclamation of motherhood.
    • Ryan's Music: https://www.ryannielsenmusic.com/music -- This link goes straight to the music portion of Ryan's website. Several pieces there are related to my faith transition, including "Prayer for Peace" and "Requiem."

    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usMarch 07, 2024

    1873: Healing from Aunt Jodi - Jessi Hildebrandt's Update

    1873: Healing from Aunt Jodi - Jessi Hildebrandt's Update

    Join us as Jessi Hildebrandt, Jodi Hildebrandt's niece, updates the Mormon Stories audience on the healing and growth they have experienced after telling their story on Mormon Stories Podcast.

    Jessi's Venmo

    Jessi's Insta

    Episode Show Notes

    Youtube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usMarch 04, 2024

    1872: Abraham Lincoln and the Book of Mormon: Tim Ballard’s Lincoln Hypothesis

    1872: Abraham Lincoln and the Book of Mormon: Tim Ballard’s Lincoln Hypothesis

    Join Julia Sanders and John Dehlin as the explore the plausibility of Tim Ballard’s “Lincoln Hypothesis” - which is that the Book of Mormon inspired Abraham Lincoln to free American slaves.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 28, 2024

    1871: U.K. Brothers in Mormon Faith Crisis - Richard & Julian Heath

    1871: U.K. Brothers in Mormon Faith Crisis - Richard & Julian Heath

    Nemo from  @NEMOTHEMORMON  is back to produce another UK episode! Strap in for an epic UK Mormon Stories interview!

    Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 27, 2024

    1870: Satan in Mormonism w/ John Larsen

    1870: Satan in Mormonism w/ John Larsen

    John Larsen explores the role of Satan in Mormon theology, including his origins, powers, and purpose. Key topics discussed are the problems of evil and human agency, Mormon concepts of the afterlife, the elaborate powers ascribed to Satan, theological issues like why an all-powerful God would allow Satan to thrive or even reward him in the end. Larsen argues these issues point to flaws in the Mormon Plan of Salvation and suggests Satan must be part of the Godhead, concluding that Mormon doctrines concerning Satan lead to profound philosophical problems in Mormon theology.

    John says Goodbye to Mormonism - YouTube

    Dabbler Farm Wishlist

    Dabbler Farm Fundraiser: Hoop Dreams

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link

    SHOW NOTES:

    ________________________

    Mormon Expressions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:

    John & Carah on Other Platforms:


    Support Mormon Stories Podcast here:

    Our Platforms:

    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 23, 2024

    1869: Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt Sentenced to Prison w/ Lauren Mathias

    1869: Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt Sentenced to Prison w/ Lauren Mathias

    Breaking News - Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt Sentenced to Prison. Today we are joined by Lauren Mathias of Hidden True Crime podcast.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link

     


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 20, 2024

    1868: Leaving Mormonism in Las Vegas - Shelise Sola of “Cults to Consciousness”

    1868: Leaving Mormonism in Las Vegas - Shelise Sola of “Cults to Consciousness”

    Shelise Sola discusses her life journey of being raised in the Mormon church, including the purity culture, self-worth struggles, and sexual trauma she experienced. She shares about having a faith crisis in her 20s after learning disturbing historical truths about the church, feeling liberated yet terrified, and rebuilding an identity outside of Mormonism. Sola also opens up about confronting childhood abuse memories, finding healing through experiences with psychedelics and embracing her voice by starting a podcast to support others leaving high-demand groups.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 19, 2024

    1867: Reflections of a Mormon Historian - Sandra Tanner Reviews "Chosen Path"

    1867: Reflections of a Mormon Historian - Sandra Tanner Reviews "Chosen Path"

    In this wide-ranging interview, Sandra Tanner discusses her complex history with D. Michael Quinn, from being arch-enemies due to their clashing views on Mormon history, to gaining an appreciation for Quinn's tireless research into difficult aspects of LDS history, even as she remains puzzled by his persistent belief in Mormonism despite uncovering many factual problems. Sandra highlights Quinn's lifelong quest to reconcile his faith with the uncomfortable realities he uncovered, his struggles with Church leadership over his historical writings, the irony of him publishing an anti-Tanner pamphlet, and the sadness of his eventual excommunication which rejected both him as a person due to his sexuality and his meticulously researched historical analysis which the Church disliked. Ultimately, Sandra expresses a wish that Quinn was still alive to have an open discussion given their intertwined, conflicted past.

    Chosen Path: A Memoir: Quinn, D. Michael | Amazon.com

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 16, 2024

    1866: Secrets of a Mormon Historian: Michael Quinn's "Chosen Path | MSP Book Club

    1866: Secrets of a Mormon Historian: Michael Quinn's "Chosen Path | MSP Book Club

    Rebecca and John are joined once again by Barbara Jones Brown and special guest, Moshe Quinn. Join us for the unveiling of a hidden legacy as Moshe Quinn shares his father's untold memoir with the world. We'll unravel the layers of D. Michael Quinn's remarkable journey — a path marked by secrecy, conviction, and unwavering faith. Delve into the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and the pursuit of truth as we navigate through the pages of a life story that defies conventions and embraces honesty.

    Chosen Path: A Memoir: Quinn, D. Michael, Quinn, Moshe | Amazon.com

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link

    Co-host: Rebecca Bibliotheca


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 13, 2024

    1865: Jodi Hildebrandt Ruined My Mormon Marriage - Brian Tibbets

    1865: Jodi Hildebrandt Ruined My Mormon Marriage - Brian Tibbets

    Brian Tibbets describes his faith journey from devoted Mormon missionary to suic*dal doubter to healed ex-Mormon. He opens up about the shame and lies he felt compelled to tell while hiding his loss of faith, his wife's manipulation by unethical therapist Jodi Hildebrandt, and the supernatural beliefs that tore his marriage and family apart. Brian shares intimate details about his experiences with Mormon rules around sexuality and how he tested whether sinning really caused loss of the Spirit. Ultimately, Brian found peace and healing after leaving the LDS church, regaining relationships with his kids, and finding a healthier marriage outside Mormonism. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the harm fundamentalist Mormon beliefs can cause.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 09, 2024

    1864: John C. Bennett and Homosexuality in Nauvoo - Pt 3 w/ LDS Discussions

    1864: John C. Bennett and Homosexuality in Nauvoo - Pt 3 w/ LDS Discussions

    The team discusses controversial allegations of sexual impropriety against Joseph Smith and John C. Bennett in Nauvoo, the existence of the Danites as a violent vigilante group, Bennett's subsequent exposes of Mormonism after his excommunication, the succession crisis and various Mormon offshoots after Joseph Smith's death, and questions around the authenticity of Mormon truth claims such as the golden plates. There is debate around the accuracy of some historical sources, as well as acknowledgment that early Mormonism contained cult-like elements such as polygamy and unquestioning loyalty tests.

    YouTube Link

    Episode Show Notes


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 09, 2024

    1863: Jubilee's “Mormons vs Ex-Mormons” on Middle Ground - Ex-Mormon Cast Reacts

    1863: Jubilee's “Mormons vs Ex-Mormons” on Middle Ground - Ex-Mormon Cast Reacts

    Join John Dehlin, Jillian Orr, Liz and Dillan for clips and behind-the-scenes commentary on the Jubilee channel’s “Mormons vs Ex-Mormons” episode. We think you’ll get fired up with us as we highlight the most infuriating logical fallacies and manipulative tactics employed by the Mormon debaters, as well as the more poignant, genuine moments from each side.

    Beyond the debate recap, the conversation explores profoundly personal wounds still felt from the religion’s damaging teachings on LGBTQ identities and traditional gender roles. Jillian even courageously opens up about her inability to discuss her religious views with family members still in the church.

    Can Mormons and Ex Mormons See Eye to Eye? | Middle Ground - YouTube

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 05, 2024

    1862: Mormon Bishops Discuss Their Experiences

    1862: Mormon Bishops Discuss Their Experiences

    Content warning: mentions of child abuse, assault, suicidalality

    Four former Mormon Bishops - Beau, Nick, Jedd, and Rob - have an intimate discussion about the oft-hidden realities of serving in Mormon leadership, including the lack of training on handling abuse cases, near-suicidal stress levels, the painful contradictions between doctrine and human needs, and the ways bureaucratic priorities seem to trump pastoral care. With empathy and nuance, they peel back the curtain on issues like LGBTQ exclusion, leader worship, doubted spiritual 'gifts', unhealthy perfectionism, and the people left wounded when conference talks supersede mental health expertise - all while recognizing the very real human desire to do good amidst institutions not structured to support it.

    Episode Shownotes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:

    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 02, 2024

    1861: Why I Resigned as a Mormon Bishop - Nick and Amanda Jones

    1861: Why I Resigned as a Mormon Bishop - Nick and Amanda Jones

    A few weeks ago, Mormon Bishop Nick Jones (Mississippi) took the LDS church by storm by resigning his position as bishop from the pulpit (with the video being subsequently shared on TikTok and YouTube). Please join us for Nick and Amanda's (his wife's) story. We welcome your questions and comments.

    Nick's resignation video

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usFebruary 01, 2024

    1860: Latter-Dazed And Confused - The Mormon NewsCast 007

    1860: Latter-Dazed And Confused - The Mormon NewsCast 007

    On tonight's Mormon Newscast program, we take a look at the mixed messages that Conservatives among the faith are struggling with around homosexuality and those who are Transgender. Including the perspectives on Doctrine that some conservative commentaries say are at the base of this issue. We will also examine recent messages from leaders regarding Artificial Intelligence. And we will take a look at recent comments by an apostle that the Church needs to do right by Sexual Assault victims. And our last story revolves around why females can't pass the Sacrament.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usJanuary 30, 2024

    1859: A New Norm? Married Gay Mormons Get Callings & The Sacrament

    1859: A New Norm? Married Gay Mormons Get Callings & The Sacrament

    Join us as we discuss the surprising events that challenge norms—married gay Mormons now receiving callings and participating in the sacrament. We will explore the impact, reactions, and implications of this new chapter, and discuss whether it marks a significant change in the community's approach to inclusivity and acceptance.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usJanuary 29, 2024

    1858: Why are Mormons Confused Right Now? - Responding to Jacob Hansen’s Bigotry

    1858: Why are Mormons Confused Right Now? - Responding to Jacob Hansen’s Bigotry

    Today we will be responding to Jacob Hansen's video where he expresses the confusion that conservative Mormons are experiencing regarding the Church's stances on LGBT issues.

    Can we go on like this? (Thoughtful Faith)

    Episode Show Notes

    Youtube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usJanuary 27, 2024

    1857: Overcoming Depression as a Mormon Mom - Tara Herbert Pt. 2

    1857: Overcoming Depression as a Mormon Mom - Tara Herbert Pt. 2

    Tara Herbert recounts her challenging journey within Mormonism and motherhood, reflecting on the societal pressures and personal struggles she faced. Despite feeling unprepared, she experienced the birth of her first child within the confines of Mormon teachings, grappling with the disconnection she felt towards motherhood and the expectations placed upon women. Tara delves into the erasure of women's roles within Mormon theology, feeling disrespected and marginalized. She confronts the sexist doctrines and rituals of the faith, ultimately realizing the toxicity of the environment and its limitations on her identity and well-being. Through personal and familial trials, including PTSD and infertility, Tara navigates her disillusionment with Mormonism, finding solace in stepping away from its constraints and embracing a more liberated perspective on life and motherhood. Despite fluctuating emotions towards her past experiences, Tara prioritizes her mental health and autonomy, recognizing the importance of complexity and personal growth over the pursuit of a simplistic notion of happiness propagated by her former faith.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usJanuary 26, 2024

    1856: My Mormon Mission Broke Me - Tara Herbert Pt. 1

    1856: My Mormon Mission Broke Me - Tara Herbert Pt. 1

    Tara Herbert, born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and adopted at age two by white Mormon parents from Utah, recounts her complex upbringing in a predominantly white and Mormon environment. Raised with four biological siblings, she navigates her identity as a black girl in Utah, where she initially struggles to recognize her racial difference. Despite feeling out of place, she engages with Mormonism deeply, experiencing conflicting emotions about her faith and cultural identity. Tara's journey evolves through high school, where she grapples with societal perceptions of blackness, sexuality, and Mormon teachings on race and gender roles. Her mission to Atlanta, Georgia, exposes her to systemic racism within the Mormon Church and the broader community, challenging her beliefs and sense of self. Despite enduring trauma and grappling with guilt and shame, Tara finds solace in her eventual marriage and motherhood, yet continues to confront the complexities of her Mormon upbringing and racial identity.

    Episode Show Notes

    YouTube Link


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usJanuary 25, 2024

    1855: New Female Latter Day Prophet - The Mormon Newscast Ep. 6

    1855: New Female Latter Day Prophet - The Mormon Newscast Ep. 6

    Welcome to the Mormon NewsCast! Topics for today include:

    • New Female Mormon prophet called by Community of Christ.
    • LDS wards share meeting space with LGBTQ congregation.
    • Mormon apostles Jeffrey R. Holland declares victory.
    • The 10 Commandments back in school in Utah?
    • Utah the Online Wedding Capital?
    • Can Mormon clergy report abuse?

    Youtube Link

    Episode Show Notes


    Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

    Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:


    Our Platforms:


    Contact us:

    MormonStories@gmail.com 

    PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 


    Social Media:


    Mormon Stories - LDS
    en-usJanuary 23, 2024