In this episode, I sit down with Marcus Williams and Brock Morris from Bookrata, a new platform designed to help readers, parents, and educators better understand what’s actually inside the books they’re reading.

Unlike traditional review systems, Bookrata uses detailed content analysis to rate books across categories like language, sex, violence, wellness, religion, and LGBTQ themes—giving users the ability to customize filters based on their own values and preferences.

We discuss:
Why current book recommendation systems often lack transparency
How Bookrata’s filtering system actually works
The challenges parents face navigating modern books and BookTok culture
Why objectivity and user autonomy matter so much
How families can create personalized filters for different children
And how this could reshape literary discovery and media literacy

We also demo the platform using books from Brandon Sanderson, fantasy romance, and viral modern titles to show how detailed the ratings really are.

If you’ve ever wanted a clearer way to know what’s inside a book before handing it to your child—or reading it yourself—this conversation is for you.

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Check Out My LDS Kids Show (Brother Sunbeam)
https://youtube.com/@BrotherSunbeam?si=WuFxgFJ1IgxZ1jJm

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints

In this episode, I sit down with Camden Harwood to talk honestly about the struggles many Gen Z Latter-day Saints are quietly facing right now.

From post-mission aimlessness to social media addiction, dating apps, loneliness, pornography, faith transitions, and the emotional pressure of young single adult culture, this conversation gets very real.

We discuss:
Why so many returned missionaries feel directionless after coming home
How social media and isolation reinforce anxiety and discouragement
The emotional effects of dating apps like Mutual and Hinge
Why loneliness and shame can deepen faith struggles
The reality of singles ward culture and post-mission expectations
And how meaningful friendship and Christ-centered community actually help people stay grounded

This isn’t a doom-and-gloom conversation—it’s an honest one.

Whether you’re navigating these struggles yourself or trying to better understand what Gen Z is experiencing, I think this episode will resonate deeply.

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Check Out My LDS Kids Show (Brother Sunbeam)
https://youtube.com/@BrotherSunbeam?si=WuFxgFJ1IgxZ1jJm

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel

https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints

In this episode, I sit down with Sky Sorensen to talk about faith, family, identity, and what it’s been like navigating life as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who experiences same-sex attraction.

Sky shares his personal story openly and thoughtfully, including the challenges, questions, and spiritual experiences that shaped his path.

We discuss:
Growing up without clear role models or guidance
What helped Sky stay grounded in faith
How parents can talk to their kids about LGBTQ topics with compassion and conviction
Media, identity, and the messages children absorb today
The complexity of labels and belonging within church culture
And how to better support individuals and families navigating these experiences

This is not a debate episode. It’s a sincere conversation about faith, identity, discipleship, and the importance of empathy and understanding.

Whether you’re a parent, Church member, or someone trying to better understand these experiences, I hope this discussion brings clarity and compassion.

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Check Out My LDS Kids Show (Brother Sunbeam)
https://youtube.com/@BrotherSunbeam?si=WuFxgFJ1IgxZ1jJm

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints

In this episode, I sit down with Laura Welch to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing parents today: learning how to trust your own instincts in a world full of experts, systems, and competing voices.

Laura shares her experience raising five children through public school, private school, and homeschooling—and the difficult moments that forced her to advocate for her kids, especially when the “experts” didn’t fully understand their needs.

We discuss:
Why so many parents feel disempowered today
The tension between trusting professionals and trusting parental intuition
Anxiety, therapy, medication, and mental health in children
Public school, private school, homeschooling, and SEL programs
Why presence and involvement matter more than perfection
And how faith and spiritual discernment can guide parenting decisions

This is an honest, nuanced conversation about modern parenting, authority, and the courage it takes to fight for your child.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or someone trying to make sense of the world kids are growing up in today, this episode is for you.

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Check Out My LDS Kids Show (Brother Sunbeam)
https://youtube.com/@BrotherSunbeam?si=WuFxgFJ1IgxZ1jJm

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints

In this episode, I sit down with my sister Lauren Pace—a parenting coach, former preschool teacher, and child behavior specialist—to talk about what actually helps kids thrive.

Lauren shares her journey from managing difficult preschool classrooms to studying child behavior at a deeper level and helping families navigate real parenting struggles with more confidence and understanding.

Follow Lauren:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rising.motherhood/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@rising.motherhood
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lfalter
Bio: https://bio.site/rising.motherhood
Website: https://rising-motherhood.com/

We discuss:
The difference between authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful parenting
Why “gentle parenting” is often misunderstood online
How to set healthy boundaries without constant conflict
Practical strategies for everyday parenting challenges
The impact of screens and technology on child behavior
And why understanding your child’s temperament matters so much

This conversation is practical, honest, and full of insights for parents trying to raise healthy, resilient kids in a complicated world.

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Check Out My LDS Kids Show (Brother Sunbeam)
https://youtube.com/@BrotherSunbeam?si=WuFxgFJ1IgxZ1jJm

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with Tanner Millet from BYU to take a deeper look at both versions of Mulan—the 1998 animated classic and the 2020 live-action remake.

At first glance, it might seem like a simple comparison. But as we got into it, we realized these two films are telling very different stories about growth, identity, and what it means to become your best self.

We explore:
• Why the original Mulan feels more relatable and grounded
• How the live-action version shifts toward innate ability instead of earned growth
• The difference between “be yourself” and “become your best self”
• What these films teach about discipline, sacrifice, and teamwork
• And how modern storytelling is changing the kinds of values we absorb

This isn’t just about Disney—it’s about the messages shaping how we see ourselves and the world.

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Check Out My LDS Kids Show (Brother Sunbeam)
https://youtube.com/@BrotherSunbeam?si=WuFxgFJ1IgxZ1jJm

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints

In this episode, The Latter-Day Knight breaks down the influence of media and video games on youth, culture, and ideology. They cover current trends, concerns for parents, and ways to navigate today's entertainment landscape.

- How media and video games shape beliefs and societal norms
- The rise of ideology in pop culture, including examples from Star Wars, Marvel, and more
- The impact of Gamergate and the resistance of gamers to political narratives
- The balance between video game content, addiction, and positive experiences for kids
- Tips for parents: vetting media, setting standards, and encouraging healthy engagement

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Check Out My LDS Kids Show (Brother Sunbeam)
https://youtube.com/@BrotherSunbeam?si=WuFxgFJ1IgxZ1jJm

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints

Discover how faith-centered picture books are making a difference for Latter-day Saint families. Nicole from Popcorn Tree Books joins the podcast to share her journey, creative process, and tips for teaching kids the gospel.

- The inspiration behind Popcorn Tree Books and why Nicole started writing faith-based picture books
- Challenges and tips for translating gospel messages to young children
- Insights from reviewing various children’s storybook Bibles from a Latter-day Saint perspective
- The importance of making gospel learning engaging, authentic, and developmentally appropriate
- Sneak peek at upcoming books and resources for families looking to enrich their home libraries

Support our Guest at Popcorn Tree Books
https://www.popcorntreebooks.com

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Dave Butler, author of 20+ novels and editor-in-chief at Plain and Precious Publishing, to unpack what’s happening to modern fantasy, sci-fi, and storytelling as a whole.

We dive into why so many stories today feel different… and whether something deeper has been lost.

From the rise of “hard magic” systems popularized by Brandon Sanderson, to the growing influence of modern publishing trends, Dave makes the case that fantasy may be drifting away from its roots, away from mystery, meaning, and the kind of storytelling that shaped writers like Tolkien.

We also explore:
• Why modern fantasy often feels more mechanical than mythic
• How publishing has changed (and who decides what gets published)
• The challenge of finding trustworthy books for your kids
• Why Tolkien still resonates in a way many modern stories don’t
• And whether we’re starting to see a return to more meaningful storytelling

If you’ve ever wondered why stories don’t feel the same anymore—or how to navigate what to read and recommend, this conversation is for you.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments:
Do you prefer “hard magic”… or something more mysterious?

Find Dave Butler on X: https://x.com/DavidJohnButler

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

Follow Me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/smallsimplescreens/

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@SmallSimpleScreens

By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

#mormon #lds #latterdaysaints