Leaving the Seventh-day Adventist Church - Melissa Duge Spiers Pt. 2 | Ep. 2150

From Anti-Scientologist to “Anti-Mormon” - “TrevAnon” from the Netherlands | Ep. 2155

We have a very special guest on Mormon Stories today, who some of our live audience may know as "TrevAnon" on YouTube. He has helped out for many years as a moderator for Mormon Stories livestreams, and he is here today to tell us why a Never-Mormon from the Netherlands would find interest in Mormonism.  This episode will begin with Trev's story, and how he developed his interest in cults and other high-demand religions--especially Scientology. Additionally, he has prepared a presentation that will compare and contrast Scientology to Mormonism. Join along as we hash out all the similarities and differences point by point.  We are grateful to TrevAnon (Corry) for sharing his story and expertise with our audience, and hope you find it as interesting as we did.  ___________________ YouTube [https://youtu.be/ZqJXOu2-dHA] 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 🤝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://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/join 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  Contact us: 📧 MormonStories@gmail.com 📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Sheriff Sex Scandal, Stake Pres. Fraud, Church Stocks Lose Billions - Mormon News 5/29/26 | Ep. 2154

This week on Mormon Stories News, John Dehlin and Meggan Hayes break down some of the biggest stories making headlines in Mormonism.We begin with the growing scandal surrounding former Pinal County Sheriff and congressional candidate Mark Lamb. Recent reporting from The Arizona Republic details allegations involving explicit messages, secret relationships, and accusations that raise serious questions about image management, accountability, and whether Mormon leaders around Lamb have helped to protect him from consequences. We also examine the case of former LDS stake president Patrick Bucknum [https://www.ncwlife.com/news/federal-case-alleges-30-million-theft-by-health-payment-ceo/article_5e6908ff-28de-40a5-be2c-1bfc0fc4ae19.html], who has been accused by federal authorities of orchestrating a years-long fraud scheme involving millions of dollars.We take a look at the newest reports from Ensign Peak Advisors [https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/05/26/lds-church-is-buying-up-stocks/], the investment arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With the church's investment portfolio recently losing billions, we discuss what the latest filings reveal, where the money is being invested, and why church finances remain one of the most debated topics among members and former members alike.We also cover the arrest of William Scott Messer at BYU-Idaho [https://www.eastidahonews.com/2026/05/byu-i-student-shared-sexual-videos-of-young-girls-with-multiple-people-police-say/]. The case has generated significant attention in the Rexburg community and raises questions about discernment and how William obtained an ecclesiastical endorsement.Next, we discuss Auckland YSA and visiting General Authority Peter Meurs and his challenge encouraging young single adults to go on 26 dates in 2026. [https://www.instagram.com/p/DYdNyNKTTN6/] While some see the initiative as a fun way to encourage social interaction, others view it as another example of the intense cultural pressure many Latter-day Saints experience surrounding dating, marriage, and family formation.Finally, we break down the latest reporting from The Salt Lake Tribune regarding church annotations [https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2026/05/27/does-lds-churchs-system-tracking/]. The article shines a light on a little-understood system used by church leaders to place confidential notes on member records. The story has sparked fresh concerns about how abuse is handled in the church and the lack of training given to the leaders who are tasked with making and keeping annotations.From leadership scandals and financial disclosures to dating culture, criminal investigations, and church transparency, this week's Mormon Stories News covers the stories shaping conversations throughout the Mormon world.Show notes can be found on the Mormon Stories blog here [https://www.mormonstories.org/sheriff-sex-scandal-stake-pres-fraud-church-stocks-lose-billions/]. ___________________ YouTube [https://youtube.com/live/BTeKSjJlvRQ] 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 🤝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://account.venmo.com/u/mormonstories  Paypal: https://paypal.me/mormonstories 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  Contact us: 📧 MormonStories@gmail.com 📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

LDS Church Leaders Falling for Frauds - LDS Discussions Pt. 73 | Ep. 2153

Welcome to Episode 73 in our LDS Discussions series! In this episode, we explore the long history of fraud, forgery, and "discernment" within Mormon history –from Joseph Smith’s treasure digging and the Kinderhook Plates to the Salamander Letter, Paul Dunn, Tim Ballard, and Jodi Hildebrandt. We discuss why people believe extraordinary claims, the role of critical thinking and skepticism, and whether church leaders who claim divine guidance have actually demonstrated the “Gift of Discernment” they preach about. Along the way, we examine the Book of Abraham, the Kinderhook Plates controversy, Mark Hofmann’s forged documents, hidden church history, and modern scandals that continue to raise difficult questions for believers and critics alike. The episode also looks at how faith can remain resilient even after exposure to false claims, and why many argue that institutional dishonesty –rather than belief itself –is the deeper issue. Topics include: Joseph Smith’s treasure digging, the Book of Abraham facsimiles, how Elder Oaks defended the Salamander Letter, and the hiding of early Mormon documents. This discussion asks a central question: If church leaders claim special spiritual discernment, why were so many frauds, forgeries, and harmful figures embraced or defended for so long? If you enjoy long-form Mormon history and analysis, consider subscribing and supporting the channel. If you have thoughts on other topics you wish for us to cover, please leave them in the comments! ___________________ YouTube [https://youtu.be/qQibFQLCPbk] 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 🤝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://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/join 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  Contact us: 📧 MormonStories@gmail.com 📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Teen Stays Faithful after CES Letter and Mormon Stories Podcast - Gustavo Hernandez | Ep. 2152

Content Warning: Discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. In this episode of Mormon Stories, Gustavo Hernandez from Mexico City shares his experience growing up Mormon in Mexico, discovering difficult church history as a teenager, and ultimately choosing to remain an active, believing member of the Church while navigating doubt, anxiety, and faith crises.  Gustavo opens up about the shame culture surrounding worthiness, pornography confessions, and perfectionism in Mormonism –including how teachings from leaders like Spencer W. Kimball deeply affected his mental health as a young teen. He discusses experiencing panic attacks, existential dread, and suicidal thoughts while trying to reconcile faith, church history, and his desire to feel accepted by God.  Along the way, Gustavo encountered the CES Letter, Mormon Stories, exMormon Reddit, temple controversies, Joseph Smith’s polygamy, the priesthood ban, Freemasonry, and multiple First Vision accounts. Despite everything, he chose to stay active in the Church, serve a mission in Guatemala, and eventually became an institute teacher in Mexico.  The interview includes topics like what it’s like being Mormon in Mexico, growing up in a predominantly Catholic culture, p*rnography shame and bishop interviews, faith crisis as a fourteen year old boy, the CES Letter and apologetics, mission burnout, mental health and suicidal ideation, remaining active after losing certainly, as well as current beliefs about Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon, polygamy, and LGBTQ issues.  Whether you agree with Gustavo’s conclusions or not, his story offers an honest and nuanced look at faith, doubt, mental health, and what it means to stay. ___________________ Show Notes [https://www.mormonstories.org/teen-stays-faithful-after-ces-letter-and-mormon-stories-podcast/] YouTube [https://youtu.be/Kh55tdOdH-E] 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 🤝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://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/join 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  Contact us: 📧 MormonStories@gmail.com 📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

40% of Mormons Raised in the U.S. Have Left the Church - Mormon News 5.22.26 | Ep. 2151

In this episode, John and Meggan examine several major stories shaping the current state of Mormonism, including new research on LDS disaffiliation and decline, increasing institutional strain on local leadership, financial fraud tied to prominent Utah business figures, and the continuing controversy surrounding the Fairview Texas temple. •Drawing from research and analysis by Jeff Strong [https://www.tornbyjeffstrong.com/]and team of researchers, we discuss what current membership and retention trends may reveal about blind spots devout Latter-day Saints have, the primary reasons for disaffiliation, how LDS trends compare with other denominations, gender differences in the decline, institutional trust, and why many members appear to be quietly disengaging from traditional LDS expectations. •We also examine a recent Salt Lake Tribune report [https://www.sltrib.com/news/2026/05/08/utah-county-prosecutors-alerted/] detailing how some Utah County prosecutors notify the church’s law firm when LDS bishops submit letters on behalf of criminal defendants, raising questions about ecclesiastical influence, legal systems, and institutional boundaries. Additional topics include: •A Church News livestream [https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders/2026/05/14/young-men-general-presidency-livestream-discusses-bishops-support-to-youth/] acknowledging how overwhelmed many LDS bishops have become while supporting young men •The Noah’s Event Centers fraud convictions [https://www.justice.gov/usao-ut/pr/utah-jury-convicts-business-owners-fraud-after-victims-were-scammed-more-30m]involving active Latter-day Saints and ongoing questions surrounding discernment • The final public plea from the mayor of Fairview, Texas [https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/fairview-leaders-again-plead-church-110000502.html] asking the church to reconsider the height of the proposed temple steeple in an effort to preserve community trust. •The church battling insurers over sex abuse settlement [https://www.courthousenews.com/mormon-church-battles-insurers-over-sex-abuse-settlement-coverage-at-10th-circuit/]coverage before the 10th Circuit Court •And Charlie Bird and Ryan Clifford [https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYkm-zvJxMZ/] announced via social media this week that they have already begun the process to add a child to their family. Together, these stories paint a larger picture of a church navigating growth, decline, public scrutiny, generational change, and increasing tension between institutional authority and individual experience. ___________________ Show Notes [https://www.mormonstories.org/40-of-mormons-raised-in-the-u-s-have-left-the-church/] YouTube [https://youtube.com/live/rso-20j8i1k] 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 🤝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://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/join 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  Contact us: 📧 MormonStories@gmail.com 📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117