LDS Discussions

By LDS Discussions

Religion & Spirituality Christianity

What's LDS Discussions about?

Examining LDS Church truth claims in a thoughtful way, seeking objectivity.

Download our free app to listen on your phone

LDS Discussions episodes:

05.17.2024
Additional "Witnesses" of the Book of Mormon Gold Plates
In this riveting interview, Nemo and Julia are back to delve into the lesser-known accounts surrounding the plates of the Book of Mormon. Witness testimonies, some published decades after the events, paint a conflicting picture of the plates' appearance, size,...
05.09.2024
53: How Credible Were the Book of Mormon's EIGHT Witnesses?
Were the 8 witnesses to Joseph Smith's golden plates actually credible? Or just gullible relatives caught up in his delusion? Shockingly candid statements from witnesses like Hiram Page and John Whitmer seem to contradict and undermine official LDS teachings about...
04.12.2024
52: Are the 3 Witnesses to the Book of Mormon Credible?
Julia, Nemo, and Mike are back to discuss the varying accounts of the three men who supposedly saw Joseph's "gold plates" that eventually became the Book of Mormon. What did they say about what they REALLY saw? Episode Show Notes Youtube link _________________________ LDS...
02.10.2024
51: John C. Bennett Pt 2 - Allegations of Homosexuality
The team discusses controversial allegations of sexual impropriety against Joseph Smith and John C. Bennett in Nauvoo, the existence of the Danites as a violent vigilante group, Bennett's subsequent exposes of Mormonism after his excommunication, the succession crisis and various...
01.19.2024
50: Polygamy & Abortion in Joseph Smith’s Nauvoo - John C. Bennett Pt 2
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...
01.05.2024
49 - The Rise and Fall of John C. Bennett Pt 1
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...
11.10.2023
48: If Joseph Got it right, who got it wrong?
Does accepting Joseph Smith as a prophet require rejecting vast fields of science and scholarship? Join us as we consider long-held assumptions about Joseph Smith and the truth claims of Mormonism. We highlight problematic beliefs like dark skin being a curse...
11.03.2023
47: Russell M. Nelson's Miracle Stories
In this captivating episode with John Dehlin, Nemo @NEMOTHEMORMON , and Mike on LDS Discussions, we delve into the controversial miracle stories of Mormon Prophet Russell M. Nelson. What are the implications for a spokesperson of God to fabricate and exaggerate,...
10.06.2023
46: Mormon Apologetics: The Problems
Mormon apologetics have been around ever since Mormonism has existed. Join with Mike, Nemo and John as they discuss the types of apologetics that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints engage in and why they are...
09.15.2023
45: Mormon Prophet, Russell M. Nelson on Doubts
In this interview, we delve into how Russell M. Nelson, the leader of the LDS Church, addresses doubt. Nelson's 2021 talk on doubts and "lazy learners" encourages members to "choose to believe" and not dwell on doubts. He suggests applying this...
08.18.2023
44: How the Church Handles Doubt
In this eye-opening episode of LDS Discussions, Mike, John Dehlin, and Nemo the Mormon explore the Mormon church's approach to handling doubt. They take a brief historical journey into the realm of Mormon doubt and apologetics. We critically examine the...
07.20.2023
43: Spiritual Witnesses
Join hosts Mike, Nemo, and John Dehlin as they delve into the intricacies of spiritual witnesses within Mormonism. How do sincere seekers often end up with different answers when appealing to "the Spirit"? Can individuals be exploited by circumstances deliberately...
07.06.2023
42: The Transfiguration of Brigham Young
Did Brigham Young transform into Joseph Smith's appearance? We discuss the rise of Brigham Young from the “Transfiguration” that altered Mormonism's course. Mike, Nemo, and John explore this event by analyzing historical records, contemporary journals, and a carefully constructed narrative....
06.02.2023
41: Where did Joseph get his ideas?
Join John, Nemo, and Mike in a captivating episode as they unravel the intricate tapestry of influences that shaped the founder of Mormonism, Joseph Smith. From the unique doctrines of Mormonism to the enigmatic Book of Mormon, they embark on...
05.12.2023
40: Mormon Patriarchal Blessings | Revelations Pt. 6
Discover the truth behind Mormon Patriarchal Blessings in this eye-opening interview with hosts Mike, Nemo, and John. From reflections on their own blessings to the harmful effects of this mechanism of control over members, the hosts delve into the nuanced...
04.28.2023
39: The Problems with Mormon Personal Revelation | Revelations Pt. 5
Mike, Nemo, and John discuss the problems with personal revelation. LDS Discussions essay on personal revelation Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: One-time or recurring donation through...
03.24.2023
38: Problematic Revelations After Joseph Smith | Revelations Pt. 4
In this engaging interview, Mike from LDS Discussions, Nemo the Mormon, and John Dehlin review the failed prophecies of Mormonism's founder, Joseph. They start by discussing what the Bible says about failed prophecies and those who tell them. They then...
03.10.2023
37: Joseph's Failed Prophecies | Revelations Pt. 3
In this engaging interview, Mike from LDS Discussions, Nemo the Mormon, and John Dehlin review the failed prophecies of Mormonism's founder, Joseph. They start by discussing what the Bible says about failed prophecies and those who tell them. They then...
02.24.2023
36: Problematic Patterns | Revelations Pt. 2
Today we identify and analyze four problematic patterns in Joseph Smith's "revelations": 1) Using revelations to convince others to submit to his requests, 2) Using revelations to get out of a jam, 3) Changing revelations to fit Joseph Smith’s evolving...
02.17.2023
35: Joseph Smith's Backdated Prophecies | Revelations Pt. 1
Radio Free Mormon joins the usual crew (Mike, John & Nemo) as they discuss evidence for prophecies that appear to have been backdated after the events of the supposed prophecy already happened. LDS Discussion Essay on Backdating Prophecy Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions...
01.20.2023
34: Overview of Joseph Smith's Translations
In this episode we recap all the different areas where Joseph Smith claims to have translated an ancient source and we analyze his work and compare it against modern scholars and experts in the field to see how he did. Co-host:...
01.10.2023
33: The Kinderhook Plates
Did Joseph Smith have another shot at translating ancient scripture, or is it just rumor? Mike and John take a look at the Kinderhook Plates. What were they? Did Joseph Smith try to translate them, and what was the result?...
12.27.2022
32: Book of Abraham, Part 3: A look at the text itself
In Parts 1 and 2 of this series Mike, John, and Nemo explored the history and controversies over whether the Book of Abraham is a literal translation of Egyptian as claimed by Joseph Smith. Now for Part 3 they are back...
12.16.2022
31: Book of Abraham Pt 2: Translation Apologetics
Today we’re going through various apologetics and theories around the Book of Abraham to reconcile it being considered scripture along with what we know the literal interpretation of these things to be. What problems do these apologetics create in other...
12.05.2022
30: Book of Abraham Pt 1: Joseph's Translation
For many, the Book of Abraham is one of the most problematic subjects within Mormonism due to our ability to translate Egyptian after Joseph Smith released the Book of Abraham. We want to give a brief overview of the history...
11.17.2022
29: Polygamy Apologetics
Join John, Mike & Elisha Lee as they discuss common problematic apologies around the practice of polygamy in early Church History. From lies being called “carefully worded denials” and attempts to differentiate between “plural marriage” which God approved of or...
11.10.2022
28: The Happiness Letter (Joseph Smith's Proposition to Nancy Rigdon)
In part 5 of our 6-part series on polygamy within the LDS Discussions project, we discuss "The Happiness Letter," which was the letter Joseph Smith wrote to Nancy Rigdon to try to convince her to become one of his plural...
11.04.2022
27: Joseph Smith's Plural Marriage Proposals Part 2
Join Mike (LDS Discussions), Elisha, and John for Part 2 as they look at the techniques of influence that Joseph Smith used to propose to his plural wives. Helen Mar Kimball's age reduction digital illustration by Adam Worthington https://www.knowbrotherjoseph.com/ Special Guest: Elisha...
10.28.2022
26: Joseph Smith's Plural Marriage Proposals Part 1
Join Mike (LDS Discussions), Elisha, and John as they look at the techniques of influence that Joseph Smith used to propose to his plural wives. Special Guest: Elisha Lee Faith Unraveled Tiktok (Faith Transition Focused) Soul Unraveled Tiktok (Personal Journey Focused) LDS...
10.20.2022
25: D&C 132: Joseph Smith's Polygamy "Revelation"
Today’s episode continues the discussion on Polygamy with the (in)famous revelation still canonized in Mormon/LDS scripture as Section 132 of the Doctrine & Covenants. Mike sets up the historical & personal context of the timing of this revelation and the...
10.13.2022
24: An Introduction to Polygamy
Mike and John discuss the timeline and cultural context surrounding Joseph Smith at the time he claims to receive the revelation on polygamy which became canonized and is still considered scripture for many modern Mormon branches, some who still practice...
10.06.2022
23: LDS Temple Endowment & Masonry
Join Mike and John as they discuss Mormonism’s early connection with Masonry through Joseph Smith and the unique problems it creates for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to grapple with today. Covered topics include the timeline...
09.29.2022
22: Race and Mormon Scripture Part 2
Join us for Part 2 of our discussion on Race and the Book of Mormon. Today Mike and John go over the various apologetics for the apparent racism in the Book of Mormon and early Church leaders, from denying those...
09.23.2022
21: Race and Mormon Scripture Part 1
Join Mike from LDS discussions.com and John as they discuss race and Mormon scripture. This is part 1 of a 2-part series. We are also grateful to have a few call-in guests for this episode. LDS Discussions Essay on Race &...
09.15.2022
20: Word of Wisdom
John and Mike discuss the origins and influences around Joseph Smith and the Creation of the Word of Wisdom. LDS Discussions Essay on Word of Wisdom Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content...
09.08.2022
19: Changes to the Doctrine & Covenants
John and Mike take a look at the timeline of Joseph Smith's accounts of the revelation and restoration of the LDS Concept of priesthood. LDS Discussion Essay on Changes to Doctrine & Covenants Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous...
09.02.2022
18: Priesthood Restoration
Join John & Mike as they discuss the timeline for the restoration of the Priesthood compared to the current Church narrative. LDS Discussions Essay on Priesthood Restoration Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality...
08.25.2022
17: Joseph Smith's First Vision
John and Mike take a look at the timeline of Joseph Smith's First Vision accounts against the official church narrative. LDS Discussion Essay on Joseph Smith's First Vision Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver...
08.18.2022
16: Deutero-Isaiah in the Book of Mormon
Join John and Mike, from LDS Discussions for an introduction to the multiple authors of Isaiah and what that means for the Book of Mormon. LDS Discussions Essay on Deutero-Isaiah in the Book of Mormon Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible...
07.28.2022
15: The Long Ending of Mark in the Book of Mormon
A look at how a late addition to the New Testament ended up in the Book of Mormon and what that tells us about the Book of Mormon’s credibility as an ancient text. LDS Discussions Essay on the Long Ending of...
07.21.2022
14: The Sermon on the Mount in the Book of Mormon
We dive into the Sermon on the Mount and look at why it appears in the Book of Mormon along with what the changes tell us about the author of the Book of Mormon. LDS Discussions Essay on the Sermon on...
07.14.2022
13: The Tower of Babel and Mormon Scripture
We review the historicity of the Tower of Babel and how the story is written into the Book of Mormon and directly leads to the stones that Joseph Smith claims were buried with the gold plates. LDS Discussions Essay on the...
07.12.2022
12: The Global Flood and Mormon Scripture
Join John and Mike from LDS Discussions breaking down how the story of Noah, the arc, and the global flood is necessary for the veracity of Mormon scripture/doctrine, and a closer look at the historicity of the Biblical accounts of...
06.28.2022
11: Adam & Eve and Mormon Truth Claims
A look at the historicity of Adam and Eve and the impact that scholarship has on the scriptures of Mormonism. LDS Discussions Essay on Adam & Eve Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality...
06.23.2022
10: How the Book of Mormon was Composed
A recap of how scholars can show the Book of Mormon is a 19th century text and a look at how Joseph Smith could have produced it. LDS Discussions Essay on BOM Composed Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous...
06.15.2022
09: The King James Bible Problem in the Book of Mormon
Join John and Mike as they discuss the mistranslations in the King James Version that end up in the Book of Mormon and the problems it presents. LDS Discussions Essay on KJV Problems Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous...
06.07.2022
08: Anachronisms in the Book of Mormon
Join John and Mike from LDS Discussions as they discuss the Anachronisms in the Book of Mormon! LDS Discussions Essay on Anachronisms Episode Show Notes ========================= LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor...
05.31.2022
07: Joseph Smith’s Surrounding Influences in the Book of Mormon
Join John and Mike from LDS Discussions as they breakdown the surrounding influences of the Book of Mormon by Joseph Smith. LDS Discussions Essay on Joseph Smith's Surrounding Influences Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to...
05.24.2022
06: Tight vs Loose Translation of the Book of Mormon w/ LDS Discussions
John, LDS Discussions and Nemo go over the tight and loose translations of the Book of Mormon. Special Guest: Nemo the Mormon LDS Discussions Essay on Tight vs. Loose Translation Episode Show Notes _________________________ LDS Discussions is made possible by generous donors! Help us continue to...
05.16.2022
05: DNA and the Book of Mormon
While God (in the D&C;), Joseph Smith, and most Mormon Prophets certainly knew who the Lamanites were, DNA Science has put the modern Church in a precarious position. Today, The Church of Jesus-Christ of Latter-day Saints claims not to know...

What's LDS Discussions about?

Download our free app to listen on your phone

LDS Discussions episodes:

Additional "Witnesses" of the Book of Mormon Gold Plates

53: How Credible Were the Book of Mormon's EIGHT Witnesses?

52: Are the 3 Witnesses to the Book of Mormon Credible?

51: John C. Bennett Pt 2 - Allegations of Homosexuality

50: Polygamy & Abortion in Joseph Smith’s Nauvoo - John C. Bennett Pt 2

49 - The Rise and Fall of John C. Bennett Pt 1

48: If Joseph Got it right, who got it wrong?

47: Russell M. Nelson's Miracle Stories

46: Mormon Apologetics: The Problems

45: Mormon Prophet, Russell M. Nelson on Doubts

44: How the Church Handles Doubt

43: Spiritual Witnesses

42: The Transfiguration of Brigham Young

41: Where did Joseph get his ideas?

40: Mormon Patriarchal Blessings | Revelations Pt. 6

39: The Problems with Mormon Personal Revelation | Revelations Pt. 5

38: Problematic Revelations After Joseph Smith | Revelations Pt. 4

37: Joseph's Failed Prophecies | Revelations Pt. 3

36: Problematic Patterns | Revelations Pt. 2

35: Joseph Smith's Backdated Prophecies | Revelations Pt. 1

34: Overview of Joseph Smith's Translations

33: The Kinderhook Plates

32: Book of Abraham, Part 3: A look at the text itself

31: Book of Abraham Pt 2: Translation Apologetics

30: Book of Abraham Pt 1: Joseph's Translation

29: Polygamy Apologetics

28: The Happiness Letter (Joseph Smith's Proposition to Nancy Rigdon)

27: Joseph Smith's Plural Marriage Proposals Part 2

26: Joseph Smith's Plural Marriage Proposals Part 1

25: D&C 132: Joseph Smith's Polygamy "Revelation"

24: An Introduction to Polygamy

23: LDS Temple Endowment & Masonry

22: Race and Mormon Scripture Part 2

21: Race and Mormon Scripture Part 1

20: Word of Wisdom

19: Changes to the Doctrine & Covenants

18: Priesthood Restoration

17: Joseph Smith's First Vision

16: Deutero-Isaiah in the Book of Mormon

15: The Long Ending of Mark in the Book of Mormon

14: The Sermon on the Mount in the Book of Mormon

13: The Tower of Babel and Mormon Scripture

12: The Global Flood and Mormon Scripture

11: Adam & Eve and Mormon Truth Claims

10: How the Book of Mormon was Composed

09: The King James Bible Problem in the Book of Mormon

08: Anachronisms in the Book of Mormon

07: Joseph Smith’s Surrounding Influences in the Book of Mormon

06: Tight vs Loose Translation of the Book of Mormon w/ LDS Discussions

05: DNA and the Book of Mormon

Other shows like LDS Discussions: