The Mormon Stories Podcast is one of the most influential and thought-provoking podcasts in the religious and spiritual community. Launched by John Dehlin, a former Mormon and clinical psychologist, this podcast has created a space for open and honest conversations about Mormonism, faith transitions, church culture, and personal belief journeys. Whether you’re a current member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a former believer, or simply curious about Mormonism, this podcast brings personal stories that are raw, reflective, and deeply human.
So, what is Mormon Stories Podcast exactly? At its core, it’s a platform that gives voice to those who’ve experienced the highs and lows of life within and outside the LDS Church. From scholars and historians to everyday individuals, each episode offers deep insight into spiritual growth, doubts, trauma, healing, and the complexity of faith.
What makes this podcast stand out in the crowded world of podcasting is its honest storytelling, emotional depth, and the courage to explore controversial and sensitive topics. As more people face questions about their faith, church policies, or history, it’s no surprise that searches for “Mormon Stories Podcast episode list” and its most popular interviews are on the rise.
In this article, we’ll guide you through:
- The most popular Mormon Stories episodes
A handpicked episode list worth listening to - Tips on how to get started if you’re new to the show
Whether you’re looking for personal inspiration or want to understand modern Mormonism better, this guide will help you dive into some of the most impactful episodes of the Mormon Stories Podcast.
What is the Mormon Stories Podcast?
The Mormon Stories Podcast is a groundbreaking series created by John Dehlin in 2005. It was launched with a clear purpose — to openly explore the complex world of Mormon history, culture, belief, and doubt. What makes it truly unique is its mission to create a safe, respectful space where difficult conversations about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) can happen honestly.
Designed for ex-Mormons, questioning believers, active members, and religious scholars, the podcast addresses deep spiritual questions many people face. Episodes often feature interviews with former church members, historians, therapists, and even LDS insiders who share their personal faith journeys, doubts, and transitions. Topics range from early church history and doctrine to modern-day church practices, LGBTQ+ issues, and mental health in religious contexts.
Over the years, Mormon Stories Podcast has become one of the most influential platforms within and beyond the Mormon community. With thousands of episodes and millions of downloads, it has helped individuals process their faith transitions, find community, and feel less alone during their spiritual journeys.
Whether you’re exploring the roots of Mormonism or trying to make sense of your current beliefs, the podcast offers real, raw, and research-driven insights that resonate.
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How to Navigate the Mormon Stories Podcast Episode List
The Mormon Stories Podcast episode list is thoughtfully organized to help listeners explore a wide range of important topics. Episodes are typically categorized into themes such as faith crisis, LGBTQ+ issues, church history, ex-Mormon experiences, mental health, and spiritual transitions. This makes it easier for listeners to dive into specific areas that resonate with their journey.
You can find the Mormon Stories Podcast on major platforms like Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and the official Mormon Stories website. The website offers a clean and searchable interface where episodes are tagged by topic, guest name, and theme—perfect for new and returning listeners.
To find specific episodes by topic, use the search function on the website or filter by category on Spotify or YouTube. For example, if you’re interested in LGBTQ+ perspectives or church history deep-dives, just type those keywords in the search bar.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or revisiting favorite interviews, the Mormon Stories Podcast offers a rich archive of meaningful conversations designed to support and inspire.
Most Popular Mormon Stories Podcast Episodes
Mormon Stories Podcast has become a powerful voice for those exploring faith, navigating religious transitions, or seeking deeper understanding of Mormonism. With hundreds of interviews and episodes over the years, a few have stood out for their emotional depth, intellectual honesty, and widespread impact. Below is a curated list of the Top 10 most popular Mormon Stories episodes based on viewership, community feedback, and cultural influence.
1. Jeremy Runnells – The CES Letter
Guest: Jeremy Runnells
Summary: In this landmark episode, Runnells shares his journey after writing the now-famous “CES Letter” that critically examines church truth claims.
Why It Stands Out: It’s arguably one of the most discussed and divisive episodes in Mormon Stories history.
Emotional Highlight: His raw emotion as he describes feeling betrayed and isolated.
Fan Note: This episode is often a “gateway” into the podcast for many.
2. Natasha Helfer – The Mormon Therapist Speaks Out
Guest: Natasha Helfer, LMFT
Summary: Natasha talks openly about her excommunication and advocacy for mental and sexual health in Mormonism.
Why It Stands Out: Her courage to challenge norms helped start critical conversations.
Community Reaction: Strong support from progressive Mormons and mental health advocates.
3. Leah and Cody Young – Escaping the FLDS
Guests: Leah & Cody Young
Summary: The couple recounts their harrowing escape from the Fundamentalist LDS Church.
Why It Stands Out: Offers a firsthand look into polygamous life and breaking free.
Viewer Response: One of the most heart-wrenching and empowering episodes.
4. Sandra Tanner – Uncovering Mormon History
Guest: Sandra Tanner
Summary: A descendant of Brigham Young, Tanner explains her path from belief to becoming a leading LDS critic.
Why It Stands Out: Her decades of historical research add serious weight.
Intellectual Highlight: Facts over faith, with clear references to LDS history.
5. Bill Reel – A Bishop’s Crisis of Faith
Guest: Bill Reel
Summary: Former bishop shares his struggle reconciling church history with faith.
Why It Stands Out: Shows how even leaders can question—and be silenced.
Emotional Highlight: Tearful admissions of spiritual disillusionment.
6. John Dehlin & Margi – Marriage After Mormonism
Guests: John & Margi Dehlin
Summary: The host and his wife talk about staying together despite a faith transition.
Why It Stands Out: Gives a vulnerable and honest look into post-faith relationships.
Fan Favorite: Many couples relate deeply to this story.
7. Donna Showalter – A Mother’s Journey with Her Gay Son
Guest: Donna Showalter
Summary: A mother learns to accept her son after coming out.
Why It Stands Out: Tackles love, religion, and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Community Influence: Helped many Mormon parents change their perspective.
8. Tom Phillips – The Second Anointing Exposé
Guest: Tom Phillips
Summary: Former LDS leader reveals details about the secret “Second Anointing” ordinance.
Why It Stands Out: Rare insider look at elite church rituals.
Shock Factor: Eye-opening for many lifelong members.
9. Katie Harmon – Miss America Turns Mormon Critic
Guest: Katie Harmon
Summary: Former Miss America shares her exit story from the LDS Church.
Why It Stands Out: A rare blend of public life and personal truth.
Public Reaction: Widely shared among both critics and believers.
10. Kyle Ashworth – LGBTQ Voices in Mormonism
Guest: Kyle Ashworth (host of “Latter Gay Stories”)
Summary: Explores queer experiences within LDS culture.
Why It Stands Out: Gives voice to a heavily underrepresented community.
Emotional Depth: Stories of rejection, resilience, and hope.
These most popular Mormon Stories episodes have helped shape the podcast’s legacy. Whether you’re questioning, learning, or just listening, these episodes offer insight, healing, and understanding.
Thematic Episode Categories
The Mormon Stories Podcast covers a wide range of themes that resonate with diverse listeners. Whether you’re questioning your faith, seeking historical insights, or exploring personal journeys, the podcast offers something for everyone. Below are some powerful thematic categories and a few standout episodes under each.
Faith Transition Stories
These episodes focus on individuals who have wrestled with doubt, questioned LDS teachings, and found strength in moving forward.
- Episode 1805: John Dehlin’s Faith Crisis – Host John Dehlin opens up about his transition and the emotional journey of doubt.
- Episode 1519: Dr. Randy Bell – From Believer to Scholar – A former believer shares how academic research changed his view of the church.
- Episode 1382: Leah and Cody Young’s Journey – A married couple navigates their faith transition while raising a family.
LGBTQ+ Mormon Experiences
The podcast highlights the struggles and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals within and outside the church.
- Episode 1596: Kyle Ashworth – The Latter Gay Stories – Kyle shares insights into being gay in the LDS community.
- Episode 1349: Tom Christofferson – Reconciling Faith and Identity – A heartfelt conversation on balancing faith and being gay.
Mormon Church History & Doctrine
In-depth interviews with scholars, theologians, and historians offer valuable insights into the church’s complex past.
- Episode 1744: Dr. Patrick Mason – Understanding LDS Theology
- Episode 1323: The CES Letter and Church Truth Claims – A deep dive into the famous letter challenging LDS history.
Women’s Voices in Mormonism
These episodes give space to female perspectives in a traditionally male-led organization.
- Episode 1450: Natasha Helfer – Sexuality and Spirituality
Episode 1520: Kate Kelly and the Ordain Women Movement
Youth and Mormonism
Modern-day youth and returned missionaries share their unique experiences in today’s LDS culture.
- Episode 1708: TikTok Ex-Mormon Influencers
- Episode 1661: Missionaries on Faith and Freedom
Each episode category helps paint a fuller picture of Mormon life, transitions, and truths, making the Mormon Stories Podcast episode list a treasure trove of lived experiences.
Why These Episodes Resonate With Listeners
The success of the Mormon Stories Podcast isn’t just about the topics it covers—it’s about how those stories are told. Each episode dives deep into the emotional, psychological, and spiritual journeys of individuals who have lived inside and often beyond the framework of Mormonism. This level of honest, long-form storytelling creates a powerful connection with listeners.
What makes the podcast truly resonate is its authenticity. Guests are given the space to share their real, unfiltered experiences—often for the first time publicly. Whether they are still active in the LDS Church or have walked away, their voices are heard with respect and without judgment. That sincerity builds trust with the audience.
For many listeners, the Mormon Stories Podcast feels like a form of community. Hearing someone else wrestle with doubts, faith transitions, or family dynamics provides validation and a sense of healing. It reminds people they are not alone.
The podcast’s long-form format allows for deep dives into complex issues, including theology, mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and church history. These aren’t quick soundbites—they’re real conversations that allow truth, pain, and growth to come through.
In a world full of noise, this kind of respectful and thoughtful dialogue stands out. It’s why the Mormon Stories Podcast continues to connect so deeply with people around the globe.
Where to Listen & Subscribe to Mormon Stories Podcast
You can listen to the Mormon Stories Podcast on all major streaming platforms. It’s available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, making it easy to enjoy episodes wherever you prefer. You can also stream directly from the official Mormon Stories website for the latest updates and archives.
To stay updated, simply subscribe on your favorite platform and turn on notifications to get alerts when new episodes drop. YouTube and podcast apps offer the option to be notified instantly, so you never miss a powerful interview or story.
Subscribing is more than just staying updated — it’s a way to support the show and connect with a thoughtful, growing community of listeners who value open discussions about faith, culture, and personal journeys.
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Start exploring the Mormon Stories Podcast podcasts today and be part of something meaningful.
The Mormon Stories Podcast is more than just a series of interviews—it’s a powerful platform for learning, healing, and understanding. Whether you’re questioning, exploring, or simply curious, this podcast offers deep insights into faith, identity, and personal growth.
From the most popular Mormon Stories episodes to lesser-known gems, there’s something meaningful for everyone. Each episode brings real-life experiences, expert voices, and thoughtful reflections that resonate with listeners from all walks of life.
If you haven’t already, start with a popular episode to get a feel for the conversations. Then dive into niche stories to uncover new perspectives and truths.
Have a favorite episode or moment that moved you? Share it in the comments or tag us on social media. Your voice can help others discover the impact of the Mormon Stories Podcast, one story at a time.
