In episode 117 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson concludes his third book by exploring the contrasting lives and philosophies of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith. The episode dramatizes a stage discussion featuring historical figures who critique and debate the legacies of Emerson and Smith. The conversation covers morality, theology, and the impact of their beliefs on American religious history, illuminating the profound differences and occasional similarities between an intellectual transcendentalist and a religious prophet. The episode ends with both men presenting and reflecting on excerpts from their works, followed by a transition to introducing the next historical figures for upcoming episodes.

(00:00) Introduction to the Noble American Lives Podcast (00:24) Overview of the Series and Books (01:22) Details on the First and Second Books (02:45) Introduction to the Third Book (03:07) Today's Episode: Epilogue of the Third Book (04:26) Discussion on Joseph Smith's Actions (08:03) Debate on Religion and Morality (19:55) Final Thoughts and Reflections (25:33) Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview

In Episode 116 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson presents the epilogue of his third book, 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers: Ralph Waldo Emerson versus Joseph Smith.' The episode features a dramatized fictional discussion between historical figures, focusing on the philosophies and lives of Emerson and Smith. Notable figures such as William James, Mark Twain, and H.L. Mencken participate in the dialogue, tackling various topics including mythology, religion, ethics, and the credibility of Joseph Smith's claims. The episode brings a captivating mix of historical insight and imaginative narrative, culminating in a rich exploration of American religious history.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:22) Overview of the Series (01:26) First Book: Roger Williams vs. Cotton Mather (02:06) Second Book: Thomas Payne vs. George Whitfield (02:54) Third Book: Ralph Waldo Emerson vs. Joseph Smith (04:13) Epilogue: Joseph Smith's Dramatic Life (04:54) Philosophical Debates and Reflections (06:22) Comparisons to Mythology and Literature (09:54) Joseph Smith's Defense and Criticisms (13:25) Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson explores the lives and legacies of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith as part of his book series, 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers.' Benson compares and contrasts the lives of Emerson, a prominent transcendentalist thinker, and Smith, the prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He discusses their family lives, religious philosophies, and the impacts they had on American society. Emerson's focus on individualism and transcendentalism sharply contrasts with Smith's establishment of a church emphasizing communal structure and a restorationist theology.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:20) Overview of the Series and Books (04:02) Joseph Smith's Family Life (08:23) Smith's Leadership and Controversies (10:25) Smith's Political Ambitions (10:51) Emerson and Smith's Religious Beliefs (12:51) Smith's Devotion to His Church (13:30) Emerson's Personal Losses (14:45) Smith's Vision of Heaven (16:26) Emerson's Pantheistic Views (18:01) Smith's Anthropomorphic Gods (19:25) Emerson and Smith on Creation (20:05) Views on Evil and Sin (21:33) Salvation and Personal Belief (22:01) Scriptures and Prophecy (22:38) Emerson's Call for New Scriptures (23:20) Smith's New Scriptures (24:13) Emerson and Smith on Jesus (25:21) Emerson's Focus on Self-Reliance (29:14) Smith's Emphasis on Knowledge (29:49) Views on History (31:21) Emerson's Individualism vs. Smith's Church (32:29) Conclusion

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson continues his examination of eminent American religious thinkers and believers by focusing on the parallels and differences between Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith. Both born in the early 19th century, Emerson and Smith had vastly different lives despite their shared New England heritage. The episode delves into their upbringing, careers, religious beliefs, and personal lives, highlighting the contrasting paths each took—Emerson from a Unitarian minister to a transcendentalist writer, and Smith from a farm laborer to the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement. Benson offers detailed accounts of their respective journeys, ideologies, and legacies, providing a nuanced comparison that illuminates the unique contributions of these two influential figures.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:23) Overview of the Series (03:11) Ralph Waldo Emerson vs. Joseph Smith: A Comparative Analysis (03:59) Early Lives and Backgrounds (08:55) Family and Upbringing (12:52) Education and Early Careers (14:59) Religious Paths and Philosophies (20:29) Writing and Literary Contributions (24:13) Public Speaking and Influence (25:45) Personal Lives and Relationships (30:43) Legacy and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson completes his biography of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The episode details the events leading up to and following Joseph Smith's assassination, including the transport and secretive burial of his and his brother Hiram's bodies, and the subsequent actions and beliefs of his surviving family members, particularly Emma Smith. The podcast also explores the complex issue of polygamy in Mormon history, supported by a list of Joseph Smith's additional wives, and details the eventual migration of Brigham Young and the Mormons to Utah.

(00:00) Introduction to the Noble American Lives Podcast (00:18) Overview of the Books and Notable Figures (01:22) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:35) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (03:50) Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith (05:03) The Final Days of Joseph Smith (07:27) Emma Smith's Life After Joseph (11:11) Joseph Smith's Additional Wives

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson delves into the final days of Joseph Smith, the prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Detailing political and economic strife, personal betrayals, and the dramatic confrontations that led to his eventual assassination inside Carthage Jail, this episode offers an in-depth narrative of the conflicts that marked the end of Joseph Smith's life. A vivid recount of historical events, this episode focuses on the tensions within the Mormon community, Smith's clashes with detractors, and the ultimate sacrifice he made.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:19) Overview of Previous Books and Episodes (04:12) Introduction to Joseph Smith's Biography (05:01) Conflict and Controversy in Nauvoo (16:43) The Final Days of Joseph Smith (20:36) The Martyrdom of Joseph Smith (31:15) Aftermath and Legacy

In episode 111 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, William H. Benson continues to delve into the life of Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This episode explores Smith's complex religious and political ambitions, his controversial practice of polygamy, and his fraught interpersonal relationships, particularly with his wife, Emma. Benson recounts Smith's theological innovations, such as the concept of celestial marriage, and his eventual conflict with former close associates like John C. Bennett. Smith's attempts to merge spiritual and temporal governance and his candidacy for the U.S. presidency are also examined, highlighting the widespread suspicion and opposition he faced, leading up to his untimely demise.

(00:00) Introduction to the Noble American Lives Podcast (00:18) Overview of the Parallel Lives Series (01:26) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:41) Thomas Payne and George Whitfield (03:55) Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joseph Smith (05:09) Joseph Smith's Vision and Controversies (07:58) Polygamy and Its Impact (20:14) Conflicts and Scandals (28:49) Joseph Smith's Final Years

In this episode, William H. Benson continues his biography of Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The story covers Smith's leadership in Nauvoo, the city's July 4th celebration, and the growing influence of the Mormon community. Joseph's political power in Illinois and the impact of the Mormon vote are explored, along with the formation and strength of the Nauvoo Legion. The episode details the attempted assassination of Lilburn Boggs, the resulting legal troubles for Smith and Porter Rockwell, and Smith's dramatic legal battles. Listeners hear about Joseph's triumphant return to Nauvoo, his public speeches, and his assertion of local authority. The narrative also covers Smith's financial struggles and bankruptcy. Benson describes the secretive Council of 50 and Joseph's vision of a political "Kingdom of God." The episode concludes with Smith's 1844 presidential campaign, the challenges faced, and his enduring faith in his followers. This installment offers a vivid look at Joseph Smith's ambitions, trials, and legacy. (00:00) - Introduction to the podcast and episode. (01:06) - About the books and newsletter. (02:00) - Recap of previous episodes and thinkers. (04:20) - Joseph Smith's July 4th celebration in Nauvoo. (05:25) - Joseph's political influence in Illinois. (07:28) - The rise and power of the Nauvoo Legion. (09:03) - Attempted assassination of Lilburn Boggs. (12:25) - Joseph Smith's legal battles and public image. (15:00) - Joseph's return to Nauvoo and public speech. (19:34) - Joseph and leaders declare bankruptcy. (24:24) - Formation of the Council of 50 and "Kingdom of God." (28:30) - Joseph Smith's 1844 presidential campaign. (29:20) - Campaign challenges and public opposition. (30:46) - Joseph's closing remarks and faith in the people.

In episode 109 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host William H. Benson continues his series on American religious thinkers and believers with a focused biography on Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This episode delves into Smith's efforts to build a theocracy in Nauvoo, Illinois between 1839 and 1844. Highlights include his endeavors to construct a temple, his disagreements with federal leadership in Washington D.C., his relationship with Dr. John C. Bennett, the introduction of new religious ceremonies, and the establishment of the Nauvoo Legion and University. The episode also touches on personal tragedies in Smith's life and his interactions with his wife, Emma.

(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:20) Overview of Previous Books (03:50) Introduction to Joseph Smith's Biography (05:03) Joseph Smith's Early Years in Illinois (07:39) Challenges and Growth in Nauvoo (10:11) Missionary Work and Expansion (12:39) Political Struggles and Advocacy (17:53) John C. Bennett's Influence (22:55) Construction of the Nauvoo Temple (26:03) Masonic Influences and Rituals (28:45) Life in the Mansion House