Lindsay and Todd McCormick, a couple from Knoxville, Tennessee, share their powerful and emotional journey navigating faith, doubt, and community pressure within the LDS Church. From their musical Mormon upbringing and successful business ventures to being threatened twice with excommunication, this interview dives deep into the cost of questioning…

In this second episode exploring Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet by John G. Turner, we dive into Chapters 2 and 3, covering Joseph Smith's evolving accounts of the First Vision, early controversies, treasure digging escapades, and his transformation into a religious leader. We discuss historical inconsistencies, cultural infl…

Brooke is returning to Mormon Stories Podcast after 13 years, when she and her husband came on as the first couple to be interviewed on the podcast. Brooke’s husband at the time, John McLay was a CES employee who lost his faith while working for the church. It was an epic Mormon Stories interview, and we are excited to hear what Brooke has been up …

Today we are rebroadcasting an older, classic, episode of Mormon Stories from 2012!In this episode we interview John and Brooke McLay. John served for 14 years as an employee of the LDS Church Education System (CES). In this capacity he served as: a seminary teacher and principal, an institute teacher and director, a BYU Education Week speaker and …

We're kicking off this brand-new series with special guest John G. Turner, historian and author of the newly released book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. In this episode, we dive into Turner's research process, the inspirations behind the book, and how his work compares to previous scholars like Fawn Brodie and Richard Bush…

Katherine Bernard (KB) Olsen is a never-mo (never Mormon) — but also one of the most devoted fans of Mormon Stories Podcast. A queer, secular journalist with deep Jewish roots and a high-fashion pedigree, Katherine has spent over 20 years captivated by the LDS Church — despite never being religious herself. In her first-ever full-length interview a…

Doctrine of the Hymns: Bread of Life, Living Water In this season finale of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nicholas and Todd reflect on the powerful symbolism in the new sacrament hymn “Bread of Life, Living Water.” With heartfelt discussion and musical insight, they celebrate the Savior’s atoning sacrifice and testify that as we come to Him with a broken …

Join Natasha Helfer, Chelsea Homer, and Alyssa Witbeck as we review Episodes 1-4 of Season 2 of the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives...where we answer the questions: What is Mormon soft swinging, and is that really a thing? ___________________ Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by b…

Please join us Thursday evening at 6pm Utah time for a call-in show discussing the topic of "Are Mormons Christian?" This is part 2 of a weekly call-in show format that we are experimenting with. ___________________ Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: O…

Doctrine of the Hymns: God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nicholas and Todd explore the doctrinal themes of “God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son.” Together they reflect on the Savior’s atoning sacrifice, the phrase "broken law", our call to conform to Christ, and the healing that comes when we partake of the sac…

In this deeply moving and raw interview, Jennie shares her powerful life story—from growing up in a strict Mormon household to breaking free from the expectations that shaped her identity. She opens up about her parents’ conversions, her challenging marriage, the emotional toll of purity culture, and her gradual disillusionment with the church. Jen…

In this emotional and deeply honest episode, Eve and her parents, Neal and Christa, share their powerful story of faith, devotion, awakening, and transformation. Raised in a multi-generational Mormon household, Eve and her family lived and breathed the teachings of the LDS Church—until the cracks began to show. From Neal’s time as a bishop and Chri…

Doctrine of the Hymns: I Stand All Amazed In this reverent episode, Nicholas Wells and Todd Jeppson explore the hymn I Stand All Amazed, reflecting on its message of grace, the grandeur of the word wonderful, and the personal gift of Christ’s Atonement so that we all can repent. Because of the Savior’s unmatched love even feelings of confusion and …

Join us as we revisit this epic interview with John Dehlin and Carah Burrell, which originally aired on Carah's channel in 2023. Eve, a good friend of Carah Burrell's, was an active and faithful member of the LDS Church at the time of this interview. She had begun to question aspects of the Church—particularly polygamy—and agreed to sit down with C…

Join us for our first live video call-in show! The topic: "What do Mormons Believe About God?" We will be briefly reviewing my essay that can be found here: https://johndehlin.substack.com/p/what-do-mormons-believe-about-god Then we would love some of our audience to join us to discuss any of the following topics: What they were taught as Mormons a…

In this powerful continuation of our interview with Ben and Justine, we explore their raw and honest journey from deep devotion in the LDS Church to personal awakening, heartbreak, and healing. They share how their relationship grew during Justine’s school years, navigating early marriage, financial and gender-role challenges, and the burden of try…

Doctrine of the Hymns: As Now We Take the Sacrament In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nicholas Wells and Todd Jeppson reflect on the tender beauty and deep doctrine of the hymn As Now We Take the Sacrament. They explore themes of Christ’s boundless charity, the personal power of repentance, and how the sacrament invites small, transformativ…

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 se…

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'…

Doctrine of the Hymns: There Is a Green Hill Far Away In this tender episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nicholas Wells and Todd Jeppson explore the simple yet profound doctrine in There Is a Green Hill Far Away. Together they reflect on the infinite love of Jesus Christ, the power of His atonement, and the sacred invitation to trust and try. With re…

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 grapp…

In this episode (Ep. 2011) we explore with @nononsensespirituality founder Britt Hartley the 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 …

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 …

Doctrine of the Hymns: He is Risen In this Easter episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nicholas Wells and Todd Jeppson dive into the triumphant message of “He Is Risen,” celebrating the light, hope, and victory found in Christ’s resurrection. With heartfelt insights into the hymn’s history and doctrine, they testify that because of Jesus Christ, “we a…

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…

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…

Doctrine of the Hymns: Gethsemane In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nicholas and Todd reflect on the tender power of “Gethsemane,” exploring how its simple words and childlike melody teach profound truths about the Savior’s Atonement. Together, they marvel at the personal love of Jesus Christ and conclude with a heartfelt testimony: He did …

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 chu…

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…

Doctrine of the Hymns: He Sent His Son In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nicholas and Todd discuss the children’s song 'He Sent His Son.' Together, they explore how the song beautifully teaches the core message of the Savior’s mission and the love of our Heavenly Father. Reflecting on the simple yet profound lyrics, they share insights that…

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 Sandr…

Doctrine of the Hymns: Behold the Wounds in Jesus’ Hands In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nic and Todd explore the sacred hymn "Behold the Wounds in Jesus’ Hands". They discuss its powerful invitation to ponder the Savior’s sacrifice, emphasizing how His atonement overcomes both physical and spiritual death. Through tender imagery and scri…

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.…

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 …

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.…

Doctrine of the Hymns: Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nic and Todd explore the history and doctrine behind "Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice". They discuss the hymn’s origins as a poem written by Joseph S. Murdock, a friend of Joseph Smith, and uncover fascinating details about its musical composition, …

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 …

Doctrine of the Hymns: We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Todd and Nic explore the depth behind "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet", challenging common assumptions about its message and meaning. They look into the sacrifice of its author, the transformation of its melody from a solemn funeral tune to a b…

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, L…

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 fo…

Doctrine of the Hymns: The Spirit of God In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, Nic and Todd explore the rich history and doctrine behind The Spirit of God, a hymn deeply tied to the Restoration. They discuss its possible last-minute addition to the first hymnal, its role in temple dedications, and the powerful imagery of angels returning to the…

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 F…

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. …

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 u…

Doctrine of the Hymns: Saints, Behold How Great Jehovah In this episode of Doctrine of the Hymns, we explore the profound meaning behind "Saints, Behold How Great Jehovah", uncovering its doctrinal significance and the intentional simplicity of its composition. We discuss the hymn’s powerful testimony of the ongoing work of God, and the call to rec…

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 ot…

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 members, and former LDS. Please take this …

Doctrine of the Hymns: Who's on the Lord's Side? This episode of Doctrine of the Hymns explores the stirring hymn Who’s On the Lord’s Side?, uncovering its unexpected maritime influences and the powerful doctrinal message behind its words. Hosts Nic and Todd delve into the hymn’s bold call to discipleship, its connection to the Royal Marines, and t…

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 delve…

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 th…