Mormon Stories Podcast Evil Changed Me: Lauren Matthias on True Crime Journalism and Her Mormon Faith—Pt. 2 | Episode 2041
Jul 16, 2025
Lauren Matthias, co-host of the Hidden True Crime Podcast, shares her unique journey from journalist to advocate, navigating her Mormon faith while covering the deep complexities of true crime stories. She reveals personal insights on the Lori Vallow Daybell case and the emotional toll of her brother's accident. The conversation touches on faith and feminism, the struggle of mixed-faith relationships, and the importance of storytelling within the Mormon community. Listeners gain a profound understanding of justice, trauma, and the power of personal narratives.
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Evolving Support for Ordain Women
- Lauren supported the Ordain Women movement even before she fully embraced priesthood ordination for women.
- Her support grew stronger over time, especially living outside Utah.
Telling a Transgender Child's Story
- Lauren pushed to tell a story about a transgender child despite conservative resistance in Boise.
- She won an Idaho Press Club award for that impactful story.
Meeting Dr. John Through Mormon Dating Woes
- Lauren’s cousin connected her with Dr. John Mathias after a Facebook post about Mormon dating struggles.
- Their relationship grew fast despite initial career plans that seemed to pull them apart.