Best Kyle Whitaker Podcasts (2025)

1
Evil Changed Me: Lauren Matthias on True Crime Journalism and Her Mormon Faith—Pt. 2 | Episode 2041 2:08:49

4d ago2:08:49

2:08:49

In this intimate follow-up episode, journalist Lauren continues her powerful story—this time focusing on her path from reporter to advocate, wife, and co-founder of Hidden True Crime. Lauren shares the deeply personal journey that brought her to John Matthias, their relationship, marriage, and parenting as a mixed-faith couple—all while navigating …

1
Hidden True Crime's Lauren Matthias Pt. 1 - Early Years and Journalism Career | Ep. 2040 3:50:14

6d ago3:50:14

3:50:14

In this powerful and emotional episode, journalist Lauren tells her Mormon story publicly for the first time. Known for covering others’ experiences—including the high-profile Lori Vallow Daybell trial—Lauren now opens up about her own journey through faith, trauma, resilience, and healing.She shares her upbringing in the LDS Church, the influence …

1
Joseph Smith's Early Opposition & Forgotten Critics - John Turner Pt. 7 | Ep. 2039 2:06:58

10d ago2:06:58

2:06:58

In this episode, we dive into Chapter seven of Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet by John G. Turner. We explore early public criticism of Joseph Smith by figures like Abner Cole, the satirical Book of Pukei, and Luman Walters' possible influence. We also examine Joseph’s efforts to sell the copyright of the Book of Mormon in Can…

1
My Mormon Bishop Dad was Excommunicated for Polygamy - Laurel Hell | Ep. 2038 5:30:52

13d ago5:30:52

5:30:52

In this raw and emotional deep-dive, Laurel shares her powerful story of growing up in an extremely orthodox Mormon household as the youngest of eight children. From uncovering her Danish-Mormon ancestry to dealing with abuse, purity culture, and her father's secret polygamist "revelation" that led to his excommunication, Laurel reflects on how ear…

1
Book of Mormon: Historical or 19th Century Text? - John Turner Pt. 6 | Ep. 2037 1:33:49

17d ago1:33:49

1:33:49

In Part 6 of our Joseph Smith podcast series, we dive deep into Chapter 6: "A Choice Seer." This episode explores the controversies surrounding the Book of Mormon—its origins, witnesses, and textual issues. We examine the arguments for and against its authenticity, its biblical parallels, and Joseph Smith’s role as translator vs. author.Topics incl…

1
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle and Liquid Snake Voice Actor Cam Clarke | Ep. 2036 3:25:42

20d ago3:25:42

3:25:42

In this powerful and emotional interview, voice actor Cam Clarke (known for iconic roles in animation and video games) shares his deeply personal journey growing up in a famous Mormon-Hollywood family. From his early years navigating faith, family expectations, and same-sex attraction, to starring in Saturday’s Warrior and undergoing electroshock t…

1
Gender, Faith, and Privilege after Transitioning: Paula Stone Williams 1:11:28

21d ago1:11:28

1:11:28

Text us your questions! What happens when a successful religious leader transitions genders and loses everything? Reverend Dr. Paula Stone Williams takes us on her extraordinary journey from privilege to authenticity. Paula once stood at the pinnacle of evangelical success – CEO of a large nonprofit, television host, magazine editor. But beneath th…

1
CES Letter vs Book of Mormon | LDS Discussions 63 | Ep. 2035 2:05:30

24d ago2:05:30

2:05:30

In this episode, we dive deep into the attacks on the CES Letter and its author, Jeremy Runnells, unpacking why apologetic responses—no matter how weak—are often accepted by believing members. This is the first in a multi-part series analyzing the LDS Discussions CES Letter project.We tackle critical questions about the Book of Mormon, including:-W…

1
The Man Behind the CES Letter - Jeremy Runnells (Rebroadcast) | Ep. 2033 3:03:16

27d ago3:03:16

3:03:16

Join us today as we rebroadcast the story of the man behind the famous CES Letter: Jeremy Runnells.In February 2012, Jeremy Runnels experienced a crisis of faith, which subsequently led to a faith transition in the summer of 2012. In the spring of 2013, Jeremy was approached and asked by a Church Education System (CES) Director to share his concern…

1
Did the Book of Mormon Witnesses Really See Golden Plates? - John Turner Part 5 | Ep. 2033 1:55:18

1M ago1:55:18

1:55:18

In this episode, we continue our in-depth series with historian John G. Turner, author of Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. Covering chapter five of his book, we take a deep dive into the claims of the Three and Eight Witnesses to the golden plates. Did they actually see physical plates—or was it a visionary experience? We exp…

1
LDS Prophet John Taylor’s 1886 Revelation Created Mormon Fundamentalism! | Ep. 2032 4:20:18

1M ago4:20:18

4:20:18

Shocking new breaking news!!!! Did you know that LDS Church prophet John Taylor started Mormon Fundamentalism? The LDS Church History Library just released hi-res scans of the original version of a September 27, 1886, revelation to church president John Taylor that commanded Mormons to “do the works of Abraham.” As the LDS Church was gradually wind…

1
What Caused You to Leave Mormonism? - Live Q&A with Kolby, Britt, and John | Ep. 2031 2:45:12

1M ago2:45:12

2:45:12

Join John, Britt Hartley, and Kolby Reddish today as we host a live call-in show around the topic: "What caused you to lose your Mormon faith?" We would love to hear from you. Show Notes⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠ 00:00:00 Introduction to the Q&A 00:05:20 Where does the idea of a “shelf” come from? 00:14:40 Kolby’s shelf-breaking moment 00:25:25 Polls Results 00:3…

1
Adding to the Good Pile: Women's Ordination and the Role of the Pastor's Wife with Beth Allison Barr 1:09:23

1M ago1:09:23

1:09:23

Text us your questions! How did the role of "pastor's wife" replace ordination for women in church history? Is the news that there was women's ordination in church history hitting you unexpectedly right now? It's cool, we get it; take a moment and come back when you're ready. Historian and actual pastor's wife Beth Allison Barr returns for a potent…

1
Did Joseph Smith Use Golden Plates to Translate the Book of Mormon? - John Turner Pt. 4 | Ep. 2030 1:41:22

1M ago1:41:22

1:41:22

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 sto…

1
My Dad Ruined My Mormon Wedding w/ Kayli & Nathan Hinckley | Ep. 2029 3:59:10

1M ago3:59:10

3:59:10

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 K…

1
Martin & Lucy Harris and the Lost 116 Pages of the Book of Mormon - Dr. John G. Turner | Ep. 2028 2:53:32

2M ago2:53:32

2:53:32

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 complexit…

1
Threatened with Excommunication TWICE in Tennessee - Todd and Lindsay McCormick | Ep. 2027 3:03:23

2M ago3:03:23

3:03:23

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…

1
Sexual Ethics, Queer Theology, & Responding to Critics: Matthew Vines (Part 2) 1:23:11

2M ago1:23:11

1:23:11

Text us your questions! Matthew Vines returns to discuss how the revised edition of his book addresses critiques from prominent theologians, the distinction between affirming theology and queer theology, and the possibility of affirming, orthodox Christianity. Matthew unpacks the scholarly consensus that modern sexual orientation concepts simply di…

1
Treasure Digging & the First Vision - Joseph Smith Podcast Ep. 2 w/ John Turner | Ep. 2026 2:29:02

2M ago2:29:02

2:29:02

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 infl…

1
My Life After Mormon Stories with Brooke (McLay) Lark | Ep. 2025 2:32:40

2M ago2:32:40

2:32:40

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 …

1
CES Director and Wife Leave Mormonism - John and Brooke (Lark) McLay (Rebroadcast) | Ep. 2024 4:49:05

2M ago4:49:05

4:49:05

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 …

1
The Joseph Smith Podcast: Family, Faith, & Folklore - w/ Dr. John Turner Ep. 01 | Ep. 2023 2:11:30

2M ago2:11:30

2:11:30

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 Bush…

1
Never-Mormon Obsessed with Mormonism? - KB Olsen | Ep. 2022 4:19:48

2M ago4:19:48

4:19:48

Katherine Bernard (KB) Olsen is a never-mo (never Mormon) — but also one of the most devoted fans of Mormon Stories Podcast. A queer, secular journalist with deep Jewish roots and a high-fashion pedigree, Katherine has spent over 20 years captivated by the LDS Church — despite never being religious herself. In her first-ever full-length interview a…

1
Soft Swinging & Ketamine? - ExMormons React to Secret Lives of Mormon Wives S2 Pt. 1 | Ep. 2021 2:07:17

2M ago2:07:17

2:07:17

Join Natasha Helfer, Chelsea Homer, and Alyssa Witbeck as we review Episodes 1-4 of Season 2 of the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives...where we answer the questions: What is Mormon soft swinging, and is that really a thing? ___________________ Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by b…

1
Are Mormons Christians? Live Call-in Show | Ep. 2020 2:45:23

2M ago2:45:23

2:45:23

Please join us Thursday evening at 6pm Utah time for a call-in show discussing the topic of "Are Mormons Christian?" This is part 2 of a weekly call-in show format that we are experimenting with. ___________________ Show Notes YouTube Mormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors! Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today: O…

1
Losing a Child After Losing Mormon Faith w/ Jennie Latham Johnson | Ep. 2019 3:30:11

2M ago3:30:11

3:30:11

In this deeply moving and raw interview, Jennie shares her powerful life story—from growing up in a strict Mormon household to breaking free from the expectations that shaped her identity. She opens up about her parents’ conversions, her challenging marriage, the emotional toll of purity culture, and her gradual disillusionment with the church. Jen…

1
Our Adult Mormon Daughter Lost Her Faith! w/ Neal & Christa Rackleff | Ep. 2018 3:59:48

2M ago3:59:48

3:59:48

In this emotional and deeply honest episode, Eve and her parents, Neal and Christa, share their powerful story of faith, devotion, awakening, and transformation. Raised in a multi-generational Mormon household, Eve and her family lived and breathed the teachings of the LDS Church—until the cracks began to show. From Neal’s time as a bishop and Chri…

1
Pope Francis' Legacy: A Global Church in Transition 1:14:54

3M ago1:14:54

1:14:54

Text us your questions! Pope Francis, a man who inspired even many Protestants and non-Christians with his refreshingly prophetic voice, has died. The process to select his successor is ongoing as we release this. To help us understand what's happening, as well as its historical significance, we're talking with our friend and returning guest Shaun …

1
Questioning Mormon Learns REAL Truth about Joseph Smith w/ John Dehlin and Carah Burrell | Ep. 2017 1:33:55

3M ago1:33:55

1:33:55

Join us as we revisit this epic interview with John Dehlin and Carah Burrell, which originally aired on Carah's channel in 2023. Eve, a good friend of Carah Burrell's, was an active and faithful member of the LDS Church at the time of this interview. She had begun to question aspects of the Church—particularly polygamy—and agreed to sit down with C…

1
What do Mormons Believe About God? - Mormon Stories Live! (Call-in Show) | Ep. 2016 2:35:52

3M ago2:35:52

2:35:52

Join us for our first live video call-in show! The topic: "What do Mormons Believe About God?" We will be briefly reviewing my essay that can be found here: https://johndehlin.substack.com/p/what-do-mormons-believe-about-god Then we would love some of our audience to join us to discuss any of the following topics: What they were taught as Mormons a…

1
Canadian Couple Leaves Mormon Church - Ben and Justine Jalaff Pt. 2 | Ep. 2015 3:05:46

3M ago3:05:46

3:05:46

In this powerful continuation of our interview with Ben and Justine, we explore their raw and honest journey from deep devotion in the LDS Church to personal awakening, heartbreak, and healing. They share how their relationship grew during Justine’s school years, navigating early marriage, financial and gender-role challenges, and the burden of try…

1
Does the Bible Affirm LGB Relationships? Interview with Matthew Vines (Part 1) 58:39

3M ago58:39

58:39

Text us your questions! Matthew Vines is here to discuss the revised and expanded edition of his influential book God and the Gay Christian, marking eleven years since its initial release. The book sent shockwaves through evangelical Christianity and remains a powerful and compelling case for an affirming reading of the Bible for those who want to …

1
A Canadian Mormon Story - Ben and Justine Jalaff Pt. 1 | Ep. 2014 3:33:27

3M ago3:33:27

3:33:27

In this episode, Ben and Justine share their powerful and emotional journeys through Mormonism, immigration, family trauma, and healing. They discuss Ben's family's escape from political turmoil, their struggles with loss, and the lure of the Mormon doctrine of eternal families. Ben faces racial and cultural challenges within the Church, battles se…

1
Ten Things TO DO In Your Faith Deconstruction | Ep. 2013 1:26:11

3M ago1:26:11

1:26:11

In this powerful follow-up conversation, Britt Hartley returns to explore 10 practical and emotional steps to take during your faith deconstruction journey. From embracing anger and grief, to rediscovering your identity, setting boundaries, and finding peace in the unknown—this episode is a guide to healing, growth, and transformation. Whether you'…

1
Mormon Relief Society President Resigns - Jennifer Jeppson Wilson | Ep. 2012 3:52:23

3M ago3:52:23

3:52:23

Jennifer Wilson shares her deeply personal journey from growing up in a devout Mormon family to questioning, deconstructing, and ultimately leaving her faith. She opens up about her family's polygamist history, her mission experience, marriage, leadership roles in the church, and the struggles that came with navigating faith transitions. From grapp…

1
Ten Things NOT to Do In Your Faith Deconstruction - Britt Hartley | Ep. 2011 1:48:18

3M ago1:48:18

1:48:18

In this episode (Ep. 2011) we explore with @nononsensespirituality founder Britt Hartley the common pitfalls people face during religious deconstruction. From navigating relationships and parenting outside of organized religion to the challenges of psychedelics, intellectualism, and identity loss—this is a raw, honest conversation about life after …

1
Mormon Women ECSTATIC about Garments Change | Ep. 2010 3:00:41

3M ago3:00:41

3:00:41

After nearly two centuries of strict modesty standards, the Mormon Church has made a historic change—women’s garments now allow for exposed shoulders. In this in-depth panel, Mormon women unpack the significance of this shift. From the garments' Masonic roots and historical designs to the ways they’ve shaped modesty culture, sexuality, and control …

1
TAKING DOWN the Two by Twos Cult (2x2, The Truth) - Kari & Kyle Hanks Pt. 2 | Ep. 2009 2:56:26

3M ago2:56:26

2:56:26

In Part 2 of our story, Kyle opens up about his life growing up in the Two by Twos faith — from a childhood shaped by pressure to "uphold the family name," to navigating chronic illness and suppressing his passions for music and basketball in order to prioritize church. We talk about the expectations around professing young, the control over dating…

1
We Need to Talk About It 1:12:56

3M ago1:12:56

1:12:56

Text us your questions! This is a conversation we've been avoiding: how are we doing now that Donald Trump is president again? As we had a break between interviews, we decided to try to unpack how we're feeling, what we're doing, what we've learned about ourselves, and what we're worried and hopeful about. This is an unusually impromptu and unpolis…

1
Raised in the Two by Twos Cult (2x2, The Truth) - Kari and Kyle Hanks Pt. 1 | Ep. 2008 2:34:45

3M ago2:34:45

2:34:45

Kari & Kyle Hanks share their journey of leaving the secretive 2x2 church, a religious group with no official name, written doctrine, or corporate structure. They discuss their upbringings, struggles with faith, the exclusivity of the religion, and the trauma they endured. From discovering the church’s hidden history to creating a support group for…

1
Mormon Church Employee Speaks Out about SECRET Membership Committee! w/ Kate Lyn Whitaker | Ep. 2007 2:49:54

4M ago2:49:54

2:49:54

After five years of reflection, Kate opens up about her journey growing up in a strict Mormon household, serving a mission in Argentina, and working for the LDS Church. She shares pivotal moments of doubt, her experiences in church administration, and the troubling realities she uncovered in the Confidential Records department. From questioning chu…

1
Why Mormon Women Are Leaving the Church - Jared Halverson Meltdown | Ep. 2006 3:06:17

4M ago3:06:17

3:06:17

On March 12, 2025, Church educator and BYU professor Jared Halverson released an Instagram short where he stated: “One of the statistics that has worried me the most of late, comes from a survey that was done in 2023 and it’s suggesting that for the first time that I can think of, more women are leaving religion than men are.” Is this true? Why are…

1
Re-Release - Outrage Porn, Echo Chambers, and the Seduction of Clarity: Interview with C. Thi Nguyen 1:02:25

4M ago1:02:25

1:02:25

Text us your questions! This is a re-release of an episode from our second season when we spoke with philosopher C Thi Nguyen. We think it bears re-listening in our current moment. ===== What happens when we seek simple answers in a complex world? Philosopher C Thi Nguyen takes us into the machinery of belief, understanding, and value formation, ex…

1
Top 5 Mormon Problems Exposed by Jerald and Sandra Tanner (w/ Nemo the Mormon) | Ep. 2005 2:27:01

4M ago2:27:01

2:27:01

Today we are re-introducing Sandra Tanner to a new generation of Mormons, exMormons, and never-Mormons. Both Sandra and her husband Jerald have strong Mormon backgrounds. When he was only eighteen, Jerald began to have doubts about his faith. When they began dating, Sandra Tanner also began to doubt. Throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s Jerald and Sandr…

1
Why I Stay Mormon in 2025 - Proving Contraries w/ Dave McKenzie | Ep. 2004 4:35:17

4M ago4:35:17

4:35:17

After being inspired by the Mormon Stories Paul brothers episode, Dave courageously shares his powerful journey through faith, family struggles, and self-discovery. From his upbringing in a traditional Mormon household to navigating complex questions about church history, LGBTQ+ issues, and personal loss, Dave's story is one of resilience and hope.…

1
Joseph Smith Polygamy Denialism w/ John Hamer | Ep. 2003 2:26:38

4M ago2:26:38

2:26:38

In this episode, we’re joined by historian and mapmaker John Hamer as he responds to Michelle Stone’s recent claims that Joseph Smith did not practice polygamy. Drawing from historical records, primary sources, and his extensive research, John offers context and analysis on one of the most debated topics in Latter-day Saint history. Join us for an …

1
Did Joseph Smith Use 19th-Century Bible Scholarship to produce the Book of Mormon? | Ep. 2002 3:07:06

4M ago3:07:06

3:07:06

New research by PhD student Colby Townsend reveals striking connections between The Book of Mormon and Adam Clarke’s Bible Commentary, a widely used biblical resource in Joseph Smith’s time. In this episode, we explore how Smith engaged with Clarke’s insights, made textual modifications, and reframed biblical passages to fit his theological vision.…

1
What Happens When You're Done with Religion Altogether? 1:19:50

4M ago1:19:50

1:19:50

Text us your questions! What happens when the foundation of your identity crumbles beneath you? When the lens through which you understood the world no longer works? Psychologist Dr. Daryl Van Tongeren joins us to explore this profound transition that one-fifth of Americans have experienced—leaving religion behind. Drawing from eight years of groun…

1
Family Abandons Mormon Church After 40 Years of Faith - Kevin and Jennifer Lundquist | Ep. 2001 3:03:36

4M ago3:03:36

3:03:36

In this heartfelt episode, Kevin and Jennifer share their inspiring journey through their Mormon upbringing, missions, and eventual faith transition. They discuss navigating doubts, supporting their gay and transgender children, and redefining what love and family mean. From facing church pressures to embracing authenticity, their story highlights …

1
Lori Vallow Dateline Interview - MORMONS RESPOND! | Ep. 2000 3:46:20

4M ago3:46:20

3:46:20

Lori Vallow Daybell was interviewed on NBC/Dateline Exclusive. Keith Morrison sat down with convicted murderer and Mormon mom, Lori Vallow, to talk about her case. Her two children, Tylee and J.J. were last seen in September of 2019 and she and her new husband Chad Daybell were arrested and charged for their murder. During the Dateline interview, L…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Kyle Whitaker Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide