Mormon Stories - LDS 4567p

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? us today as we gather with Katie Rich (author of Fifty Years of Exponent II), Amy Mhie 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/

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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

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 ing, 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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

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 ages 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 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? Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

In this episode, we’re ed 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. 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 ed the Community of Christ Church in 2010 and now serves as a pastor in their Toronto Congregation. Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

In this heartfelt episode, Kevin and Jennifer share their inspiring journey through their Mormon upbringing, missions, and eventual faith transition. They discuss navigating doubts, ing 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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

In this long awaited interview, James Huntsman, a successful businessman and member of the Huntsman family, s 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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

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 s 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 Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

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? us today as John, Julia (from Analyzing Mormonism), and Alyssa Witbeck discuss these changes. Show Notes: https://www.mormonstories.org/mormon-church-changes-childrens-polygamy-lesson/ ___________________ At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by and former 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 , investigators, and non- regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology 2. Mormons (and 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 Want to create live streams like this?  Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4530951114981376 🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today One-time or recurring donations: https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories  Venmo: https://.venmo.com/u/mormonstories  Paypal: https://paypal.me/mormonstories  this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6OgmoqJbOVRq-Lv1P7SzA/ Our 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  us: 📧 [email protected] 📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 #MormonStories #Mormon #lds

A 15 question quiz has been designed to facilitate healthy discussions about factual LDS Church history, and LDS Church historical transparency. It should take less than 5 minutes to complete. Audience: This quiz is for anyone who has ever been an LDS Church member, including active and inactive LDS Church , and former LDS. Please take this quiz yourself, and then please invite family, friends, and (most importantly) LDS church leaders and missionaries to take the quiz as well. We are hopeful that the survey can serve as a way for you and others to healthily discuss factual LDS Church history, as well as the LDS Church's overall record of historical transparency. NOTE: All of the historical facts below have been recognized by the LDS church as valid, to the best of our understanding. References have been included for discussion. We will be awarding a modest number of cash awards to those who complete the survey in its entirety, and who are willing to share compelling insights or experiences - which might include coming on the podcast to discuss their experiences.  We are also considering the option of istering this survey as a scientific, random survey.  If you are interested in ing such a project, feel free to donate at the link below. Enjoy! And please email us with any or experiences you'd like to share. Survey link: https://forms.gle/3o7Tr6ZHKzoEBpMs8 To donate to this project: https://donorbox.org/ldschurchresearch YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: ⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠ ⁠ us on Patreon⁠ ⁠PayPal⁠ ⁠Venmo⁠ Our Platforms: ⁠YouTube⁠ ⁠Patreon⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: ⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠ ⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠ ⁠ the Discord

Anna shares her personal journey growing up as a Pentecostal Charismatic in Utah, detailing her experiences within the Assemblies of God (AG) church, and the struggles and beliefs that shaped her faith. Although she has never been mormon, Anna has a unique perspective of the LDS church as she grew up surrounded by Mormonism in Utah. Anna also delves into her time as a missionary in Mozambique, her eventual questioning of her beliefs, and the emotional journey of leaving the church. The conversation touches on the challenges of leaving a high-demand religion and finding new paths to healing and authenticity. Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

Many have asked the question: Did Mormon Prophet Joseph Smith have sex with his polygamous wives? During his lifetime, Joseph Smith engaged in polygamy (which was illegal in the state of Illinois) and his wives consisted of women who were underage, women who were single, women who were widowed, and women who were already legally married. What is the evidence for his sexual relations with them? Additionally a number of the brethren were also commanded to live polygamy, what is the evidence for sexual relations in those unions? Were any children born in polygamy during the prophet’s life? us for a unique LDS Discussions episode where we explore these topics and answer these questions. Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

We sit down with the attorneys behind the explosive lawsuits filed against LDS Church, alleging decades of systemic child sexual abuse and institutional cover-up. These lawsuits include shocking claims of abuse facilitated by Church leaders across multiple states and even international borders, with some cases framed under federal trafficking statutes.The attorneys reveal how these cases aim to hold the Church able, explain the legal strategy behind the state and federal coordination efforts, and share the stories of survivors fighting for justice. Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

Keith Erekson serves as the director of the historical research and outreach for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On January 12, 2025 he gave a fireside in which he answered tough questions. Today we are responding to that fireside and discussing such topics as polygamy, Joseph Smith marrying women who were already married, and the church hiding aspects of its history. Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

In today's episode, John sits down for a conversation with immigration attorney, Justin Sweeney. Justin grew up LDS in Mesa, AZ, served a mission in Argentina, and has served in many leadership positions within the church. He was even serving in his branch presidency up until the end of 2024. Justin discusses how he felt overworked in his church callings, questioning polygamy and masonry, and his journey of discovering the true history of the church.

The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has unanimously rejected James Huntsman's fraud lawsuit against the LDS/Mormon Church, which claimed that the church misled the hip over its tithing usage. John, Gerardo, and attorney Kolby Reddish to break down the decision. Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox us on Patreon PayPal Venmo Our Platforms: YouTube Patreon Spotify Apple Podcasts us: [email protected] PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Social Media: Insta: @mormstories TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast the Discord

Austin Wheeler shares his personal journey navigating Mormonism, military culture, and faith deconstruction. He recounts growing up in the church, his early experiences with trauma, and how Mormonism influenced his views on violence and masculinity. After a series of life events—ranging from military service at West Point to his mission in Taiwan—he confronts the toxic elements of both the military and the church, including dehumanization and harmful beliefs. Ultimately, he reflects on how his experiences shaped his disillusionment with Mormonism, his struggles with identity, and the deep questions about purpose and meaning that arose as a result. Show Notes: https://www.mormonstories.org/questioning-mormon-and-military-service/ ___________________ At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by and former 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 , investigators, and non- regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology 2. Mormons (and 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 🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today One-time or recurring donations: https://donorbox.org/mormon-stories?default_interval=m Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mormonstories Venmo: https://.venmo.com/u/mormonstories Paypal: https://paypal.me/mormonstories this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6OgmoqJbOVRq-Lv1P7SzA/ Our 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 us: 📧 [email protected] 📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117