Alyssa Grenfell, an ex-Mormon YouTuber and author known for her insights on leaving the Mormon Church, dives deep into the intriguing world of Mormon influencers. She discusses the financial ties between the LDS Church and influential figures, exploring how these connections are maintained without leaving a trace. Alyssa also delves into the complexities of identity among influencers navigating their faith while gaining online fame. Additionally, she highlights the church's strategic advertising tactics and the impact of social media on shaping perceptions of Mormonism.
Alyssa Grenfell discusses how the LDS church may financially support influential figures within its community while obscuring its tactics.
The podcast highlights the historical missteps and successes of the LDS church in cultivating relationships with its influencers over time.
Alyssa's insights reveal a growing trend of ex-Mormons harnessing digital platforms to share their experiences and perspectives.
Deep dives
The Summer of Assassination Attempts
In the summer of 1975, two women uniquely attempted to assassinate the President of the United States within a short time frame and distance. Lynette 'Squeaky' Fromm, a 26-year-old follower of Charles Manson, and Sarah Jean Moore, a middle-aged housewife acting as an undercover FBI agent, were involved in these historic yet alarming events. Their motivations diverged significantly; while Fromm was deeply embedded in a radical cult philosophy, Moore was part of an effort to undermine domestic violence and radicalism from within the system. This juxtaposition showcased not only the volatile political climate of the time but also the surprising roles that women could play in such extreme actions.
The Influence of Manson and Radical Politics
The historical context of Lynette Fromm's actions is rooted in her connection to Charles Manson, highlighting the continuing influence of his cult on certain individuals. Fromm's beliefs and actions were influenced by Manson’s revolutionary ideas, illustrating how radical cult mentalities could prompt extreme actions. The summer's events serve as a cautionary tale of how unstable ideologies can lead followers to place themselves in fierce opposition to societal norms, often inciting violence. Such intersections of personal belief and allegiance undoubtedly created a breeding ground for radical actions that shocked the nation.
The Role of Undercover Operations
Sarah Jean Moore’s attempts to assassinate President Ford were underscored by her role as an undercover agent working to infiltrate revolutionary groups. Her actions reveal the complexities of law enforcement's strategies during a time of political upheaval, with government agents attempting to thwart violent individuals and groups. By portraying herself as a radical, she was able to penetrate layers of militant resistance, showing the lengths to which some would go to protect national security. This layer of intrigue adds depth to the exploration of radicalism, as it highlights the blurred lines between protector and potential threat.
The Implications of Female Participation in Political Violence
The involvement of women in acts of political violence complicates traditional narratives surrounding feminism and activism. With both Fromm and Moore acting in critical and opposing capacities, their stories challenge perceptions of gender roles within radical movements. This duality reflects the evolving nature of women's participation in social movements, where they both embody victimhood and agency. Analyzing their motivations further deepens understanding of the societal pressures and personal convictions that guide women toward radicalism.
Cultural Reflections of the 1970s
The assassination attempts and the lives of these two women serve as a mirror to the broader cultural upheaval of the 1970s in America. This era was marked by immense social change, political disillusionment, and a general sense of instability, which manifested in both personal and collective actions. By understanding the contexts surrounding these events, one can grasp how they were reflective of the anxieties of the time—an era grappling with women's liberation, anti-government sentiment, and radical ideologies. These historical narratives thus provide valuable insights into how societal issues intersect with individual choices, ultimately shaping the fabric of American history.
In part two of this definitely minisode series, Jamie talks with ex-Mormon YouTuber and author of How to Leave the Mormon Church: An Ex-Mormons Guide to Rebuilding After Religion Alyssa Grenfell about how the LDS may have found a back channel to bankroll its most powerful influencers, without leaving a paper trail.
Alyssa walks Jamie through how she thinks it's done, and how the LDS has succeeded and fumbled its relationships with influencers in the past.
