In Part 4 of our deep-dive podcast series with historian Dr. John G. Turner, we explore one of the most debated questions in Latter-day Saint history: Did Joseph Smith actually use the golden plates to translate the Book of Mormon?

We also cover the roles of Oliver Cowdery and Martin Harris, Cowdery’s relationship to the Smiths, the use of seer stones and divining rods, and the complex origins of LDS priesthood authority. This episode covers chapter five in John G. Turner’s new book titled Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet, revealing new perspectives on how the Book of Mormon was produced and what was happening behind the scenes.

Topics include:

• Joseph’s poverty and early struggles

• Martin Harris’ doubts and dedication

• Translation methods and spiritual tools

• Priesthood revelations and baptisms

• Internal conflicts and legacy

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy thoughtful conversations on religious history.

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In this powerful, raw, and emotional conversation, Nathan Hinckley and his daughter Kayli open up about their journey through Mormonism — from deep devotion to painful disillusionment — and how faith, family, and unexpected truths collided at one of the most sacred moments: Kayli’s wedding.From early seminary mornings and dreams of the Celestial Kingdom to patriarchal blessings, church culture clashes, and a heartbreaking faith crisis — this interview pulls no punches. Nathan, a once-devoted bishop and father, shares how his spiritual unraveling sent shockwaves through his family, culminating in a moment that changed everything at his daughter's temple wedding.How do you break the news to your family that you no longer believe — when your whole life has been built around it?How did Kayli handle growing up as a “perfect Mormon girl,” only to find herself questioning it all before adulthood?Topics explored:-Growing up Mormon in Tennessee-Spiritual perfectionism & scrupulosity-Patriarchal expectations vs self-identity-Leaving the Church and breaking generational cycles-Family dynamics around faith, control, and truth

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Welcome to part three of the Joseph Smith Podcast! In this episode, we explore one of the most pivotal and mysterious events in early Mormon history — the story of Martin and Lucy Harris and the infamous loss of the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript. With historian and non-Latter-day Saint scholar John G. Turner, we dive into the complexities of translation, belief, and the relationships that shaped the early Restoration movement.We also examine:- The discovery of the plates- Martin Harris’ background and motives- Lucy Harris’ suspicions and possible involvement- The cultural and religious context of the time- Theories about the Book of Mormon translation process- What the loss of the 116 pages reveals about Joseph Smith’s prophetic developmentThis episode also reflects on broader themes of faith, deception, historical interpretation, and the psychology behind religious movements. Whether you're a believer, skeptic, or historian, this deep-dive provides rich insight from a non-Mormon perspective.___________________

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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 and choosing authenticity over conformity.

They open up about their faith crisis, the controversial City Creek Mall, navigating parenthood in the church, and ultimately, their heartbreaking experience with betrayal from close friends and leaders. Through all of it, their love for each other and desire for truth remained steadfast.

Topics include:

-Faith deconstruction and polygamy

-Church discipline and double standards

-Excommunication threats and “apostasy”

-Cultural expectations, identity, and healing

-Choosing honesty over fear in Mormonism

-Watch their raw and courageous story unfold.

Contact Information:

Lindsay on Facebook

Lindsay on Instagram

Todd on Facebook

Todd on Instagram

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Lindsay's Photo Business

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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 influences, and Turner's critical conclusions about Smith's experiences and motivations.

Based on Chapters 2 & 3 of John G. Turner’s book, topics include:

The First Vision's late emergence and conflicting versions

Treasure digging and supernatural claims

The influence of revivalist culture

Early church documents and evolving theology

Turner's secular interpretation of Joseph Smith’s story

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• 
  

Contact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

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 to since. We will hear about how Brooke has rebuilt her life and career after a divorce, and how her life has been impacted by sharing her story in such a public way.

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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 an EFY Director. John also served as a member of a stake high council, and was serving in a bishopric during the months leading up to his decision to leave the LDS Church. John and Brooke resigned their membership of the LDS Church in August of 2011. This is their story.Join us in the next episode where we re-interview Brooke Lark!

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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 Bushman. We explore Joseph Smith’s visionary parents, his early years, the origins of the Book of Mormon, and whether the LDS Church has hidden key historical documents.

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Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!

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