Faith Matters

Historian John Turner, a professor at George Mason University, dives deep into his new biography of Joseph Smith, exploring the complexities of Smith’s life and legacy. He discusses how Smith's challenging childhood forged his resilience as a leader. The conversation touches on the controversial golden plates and the varying accounts of witnesses. Additionally, Turner examines the dynamics of polygamy and Emma Smith's crucial role in Joseph’s life, unveiling the intricate interplay between faith, ambition, and historical narrative.

Dive into the concept of Holy Envy, where appreciation for diverse faiths sparks joy and understanding. Hear personal stories from a vibrant trip to the Western Wall, brimming with cultural insights. Explore the universality of love across religions, focusing on compassion over doctrine. Experience heartfelt reflections on parenting that highlight community and connection. This session invites you to embrace beauty in differing beliefs while fostering a spirit of inclusivity and love.

Join historians Lisa Olsen Tait and James Goldberg as they explore the fascinating history of the Church's Young Women organization, tracing its origins from a small group in Brigham Young's Lion House to a vital entity shaping young women's lives today. They discuss the essential skills taught through the organization, the impact of societal pressures, and how past struggles with modesty and worthiness influence current experiences. Their insights reveal a rich tapestry of empowerment, leadership, and evolving identities that have guided generations of young women.

Join John Gustav-Wrathall, a gay Latter-day Saint in a fulfilling 25-year marriage, and Allison Dayton, founder of Lift+Love and a devoted mother to a gay son, as they explore faith and identity. John shares his heartfelt journey of acceptance and trust in the Spirit amid challenges within the LDS church. Together, they emphasize the importance of love, family support, and the healing power of community for LGBTQ individuals. Their candid conversation is a beacon of hope for navigating faith with empathy and understanding.

Anna Lott, host of the Solo Saints podcast and a fierce advocate for those navigating divorce, shares her heartfelt insights on faith and family. She discusses the stigma surrounding divorce in family-focused churches and calls for greater empathy within communities. Anna candidly explores her own journey of grief and growth, challenging traditional narratives about marriage and emphasizing personal agency. Her reflections on reclaiming one’s identity as a daughter of God inspire deeper joy and belonging, urging listeners to foster compassionate conversations around divorce.

In this discussion, Matthew Harris, the author of Second-Class Saints, dives into the pivotal moments leading to the 1978 revelation that lifted the priesthood ban for Black members. He unearths previously unavailable documents, revealing a process of dialogue and personal growth rather than a sudden command. Topics include the evolving definitions of doctrine, the significant role of progressive activists, and the necessity for reconciliation within faith institutions. Harris emphasizes the importance of understanding this history to foster inclusivity and healing.

This engaging discussion highlights the importance of rebuilding trust in communities. Guests share insights on the necessity of shared responsibilities within families, schools, and other institutions. They explore how unlikely friendships between political opposites can foster understanding. The conversation also emphasizes the pivotal role of strong family ties and personal connections in transforming society. Ultimately, it promotes grassroots efforts to bridge divides and fosters a sense of mutual civic responsibility in an increasingly polarized world.

In a vibrant conversation, Steven Sharp Nelson, known as “The Cello Guy” from The Piano Guys, shares how his journey with ADHD transformed from confusion to a spiritual gift. He highlights the energy and sensitivity that comes with ADHD and how it fuels his creativity and connection to God. With personal anecdotes, he emphasizes viewing ADHD as a 'superpower' and discusses the importance of embracing both challenges and joys. Steve also offers insights on nurturing creativity and the role of faith in transforming perceived weaknesses into blessings.

Phil Barlow, author of 'A Thoughtful Faith for the 21st Century' and a prominent scholar on faith and intellect within the Latter-day Saint tradition, shares insights from his new book. He discusses the evolution of faith since 1986, emphasizing inclusivity and community. Reflecting on personal faith journeys, he addresses the importance of embracing uncertainty and confronting historical truths. Barlow advocates for compassion in navigating differing perspectives and highlights how love and creativity can connect human experiences to the divine.

Jared Halverson, a scholar adept at navigating faith challenges, and Terryl Givens, a noted religious scholar, engage in a thought-provoking discussion on whether doubt can serve as a spiritual gift. They propose that faith and doubt are not opposites, but rather coexist to foster deeper spiritual growth. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing uncertainties and the evolution of personal spirituality in today's context. Ultimately, they argue that the journey of belief should embrace both faith and doubt as allies in spiritual development.