Mormon Stories Podcast

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?

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In this episode, we expose the layers of Bennett's role in divulging Joseph's polygamous secrets. From secret women's organizations with captivating names like Cyprian Saints to the complex web of polygamous relationships, we journey through a fascinating exploration of historical allegations and denials. Brace yourself for a captivating ride through the world of John C. Bennett, where accusations, clandestine affairs, and the shadowy specter of abortionist connections add layers of complexity to this historical puzzle.

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Originally published January 16, 2024.

Becky Loveless shares her story of growing up in a devout Mormon family and community, the pressure to be perfect, and how at 17, after her parents discovered she had been intimate with her boyfriend, she was sent without her knowledge or consent to a strict religious behavior-modification camp called Lifeline in Salt Lake City. She recounts the rigid rules, the lack of credentialed staff, and the emotional toll.

Full episode and show notes: https://www.mormonstories.org/troubled-teen-center-nightmare/

This week we tackle the polarizing news that the Mormon church has hired an LGBTQ ally, the Church makes a brewing company change the name of a beer, Chad Daybell's legal counsel withdraws due to lack of funds, and new criminal allegations emerge against controversial Mormon figure Tim Ballard.

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Becky Loveless shares her personal story of growing up in a devout Mormon family and community. She discusses the immense pressure she felt to be perfect and avoid any behavior considered sinful. This culminated when, at age 17, her parents discovered she had been intimate with her boyfriend and secretly sent her away to a strict religious behavioral modification camp called "Lifeline" in Salt Lake City without her knowledge or consent.

Becky recounts the traumatic experiences at this camp, including the rigid rules, lack of credentials among staff, and the emotional manipulation tactics. She explains how the ordeal negatively affected her self-worth and strained relationships in her life for years after. Becky emphasizes the lack of understanding about normal adolescent behavior in these religious communities, the damage caused by guilt and shame, and the need for more open, understanding parenting. She hopes that increased awareness and support for youth might prevent this from happening to others.

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Alyssa Grenfell is the author of a brand new book called "How to Leave the Mormon Church: An Exmormon’s Guide to Rebuilding After Religion." Today she will be sharing with us her Top 10 tips on how to leave Mormonism.

Alyssa’s new book, "How to Leave the Mormon Church" can be purchased here

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In this captivating interview, Alyssa shares poignant moments that shaped her perception of gender roles, societal expectations, and the struggle for self-worth within the Mormon context. The narrative explores her attempts to reconcile personal identity with the rigid doctrines of the Church, touching on themes of control, body autonomy, and the internal conflicts that arise when faith clashes with individual growth.

Alyssa recounts her mission, marriage, and the disillusionment that eventually led to her departure from the Mormon Church. The interview offers a powerful reflection on the cost of leaving behind the familiar for the pursuit of personal authenticity. Listeners are invited to join this intimate journey of self-discovery, challenging societal norms, and finding empowerment outside the constraints of religious expectations.

Alyssa’s new book, "How to Leave the Mormon Church" can be purchased here

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PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 

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Dive into the latest happenings in the world of Mormonism with this engaging news show! Explore the heartfelt story of a Mormon Bishop resigning from the pulpit, offering viewers a glimpse into the personal struggles faced by religious leaders on the local level. The hosts, one a former Bishop himself, provide thoughtful perspective on the challenges Bishops encounter when asked to go against their own conscience. The episode also includes Utah's Mormon politicians, and a special report from the Widow's Mite on new stats from Australia on child ab*se rates within Mormonism.

The Widow's Mite Report

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PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 

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Dive into the captivating saga of John C. Bennett, an enigmatic figure woven into the intricate tapestry of early Mormonism. John, Mike, Nemo, and Julia from Analyzing Mormonism unearth together the layers of his rise, from esteemed physician to Mayor of Nauvoo and right-hand man to Joseph, and the scandalous allegations that led to his name becoming a hiss and a byword among Mormons even to this day. Tune in for an enthralling journey that peels back the layers of secrecy and intrigue surrounding this controversial historical figure.

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PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 

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Is the Mormon Church in decline in its home state: Utah? Is the Mormon church over-reporting its Utah membership? Is the Mormon church in decline worldwide? Join us as we interview sociologist Dr. Ryan Cragan we we discuss his new article: "Mormons Are No Longer a Majority in Utah: Causes, Consequences, and Implications for the Sociology of Religion." 

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

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[email protected] 

PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 

• Insta: @mormstories
• Tiktok: @mormonstoriespodcast
• Join the Discord