
followHIM
Do you ever feel that preparing for your weekly Come, Follow Me lesson falls short? Join hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway as they interview experts to make your study for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Come, Follow Me course not only enjoyable but original and educational. If you are looking for resources to make your LDS study fresh, faithful, and fun--no matter your age--then join us every Wednesday morning. Show notes: https://followhim.co YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FollowHimOfficialChannel Instagram: Instagram.com/followhimpodcast Facebook: Facebook.com/followhimpodcastThe followHIM Podcast is not affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The opinions expressed on episodes represent the views of the guest and podcasters alone.
Latest episodes

Jun 4, 2025 • 1h 9min
Doctrine & Covenants 60-63 Part 1 • Dr. Scott Esplin • June 9-15 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Scott Esplin, Dean of Religious Education at BYU and expert in Latter-day Saint history, dives into intriguing discussions on faith in action. He unpacks the concept of traveling 'speedily' without haste, exploring how to embody faith amid life's challenges. Esplin shares insights on the myths surrounding the 'destroyer on the water' and lessons from Jairus about timing and happiness. He encourages gratitude even when answers are elusive and emphasizes the need for courage in sharing faith while balancing personal connections.

8 snips
May 29, 2025 • 7min
God Has the Earth on TiVo • followHIM Favorites • June 2-8 • Come Follow Me
Discover the intersection of technology and faith as the hosts discuss divine guidance amid trials. They share a fascinating analogy involving TiVo to illustrate how past challenges shape our outlook. Additionally, the excitement of live sports broadcasting sets the stage for a heartfelt reflection on trust in turbulent times. Tune in for a blend of personal stories and spiritual insights that illuminate the unseen forces at work in our lives.

41 snips
May 28, 2025 • 28min
Doctrine & Covenants 58-59 Part 2 • Sis. Whitney Johnson • June 2-8 • Come Follow Me
Whitney Johnson, an influential thought leader, dives into the significance of Sabbath observance and gratitude. She highlights how taking time for rest can refresh our spirits and improve emotional well-being. Listeners learn about the power of expressing thanks and its positive effects on relationships. Whitney also shares insights on maintaining faith in challenging times, urging a focus on divine truths amid modern distractions, and the importance of community support in one’s spiritual journey.

66 snips
May 28, 2025 • 1h
Doctrine & Covenants 58-59 Part 1 • Sis. Whitney Johnson • June 2-8 • Come Follow Me
Whitney Johnson, CEO of Disruption Advisors and a thought leader in innovation, shares insights on how disruption plays a vital role in personal and spiritual development. She examines what it means to be 'anxiously engaged,' reflecting on early Saints' experiences. The discussion touches on personal growth through challenges, the S-curve of learning, and the emotional ties to community and nature. Whitney highlights the importance of purpose in spiritual service and encourages reclaiming one's agency amidst life's trials.

May 22, 2025 • 5min
My 370 Mile Mistake • followHIM Favorites • May 26 - June 1 • Come Follow Me
Dive into a captivating tale of integrity as personal stories reveal the significance of honesty. One co-host shares a childhood mishap with a damaged car, leading to a humorous hotel incident. This sparks a deeper discussion on how these experiences shape our values, complemented by insights from a group of businessmen. The exploration of honesty is both relatable and enlightening, reminding listeners of the impact our choices have on ourselves and others.

78 snips
May 21, 2025 • 52min
Doctrine & Covenants 51-57 Part 2 • Sister Emily Utt • May 26 - June 1 • Come Follow Me
Emily Utt, a church historian focused on women's history, shares insights into the communal work of building Zion. She emphasizes the importance of consecration and individual contributions in creating a cohesive community. By sharing personal stories and historical examples, she highlights how even small acts of service can significantly impact the church environment. Utt also explores themes of belonging, the role of women in church history, and the transformative power of faith—encouraging listeners to recognize their unique gifts in the journey of building Zion.

71 snips
May 21, 2025 • 1h 9min
Doctrine & Covenants 51-57 Part 1 • Sister Emily Utt • May 26 - June 1 • Come Follow Me
Sister Emily Utt, a historic sites curator for the Church History Department, shares her insights on the significance of Kirtland, Ohio, in building a Zion community. She discusses how diverse backgrounds and talents came together to support each other in faith. Emily highlights the role of education and personal strengths in fostering spiritual unity. She also touches on the challenges faced by early Saints, emphasizing that building Zion involves humility and collective dedication. Her anecdotes reveal how sacred spaces enhance the spiritual journey.

4 snips
May 15, 2025 • 4min
Follow the Light on I-15 • followHIM Favorites • May 19 - 25 • Come Follow Me
Discover the inspiring tale of a couple navigating a blizzard, where hope shines through the taillights of a passing semi-truck. This story serves as a powerful metaphor for divine guidance in dark times. The speakers emphasize the importance of trusting in light as a source of strength during life's challenges, encouraging listeners to find their own paths through adversity.

48 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h
Doctrine & Covenants 49-50 Part 2 • Dr. Aaron Franklin • May 19-25 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Aaron Franklin, an author and professor at Duke University, dives into the fascinating interplay of science and spirituality. He discusses the roles of observation, reason, and faith in facilitating personal revelation. Franklin shares insights on how light serves as both a medium for divine communication and a metaphorical guide in our spiritual journeys. He invites listeners to embrace diverse perspectives while fostering understanding, highlighting the transformative power of spirituality in everyday life and decision-making.

42 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 2min
Doctrine & Covenants 49-50 Part 1 • Dr. Aaron Franklin • May 19-25 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Aaron Franklin, a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Chemistry at Duke University, dives into the intriguing relationship between light and truth. He discusses how early Saints navigated spiritual experiences, emphasizing the importance of receiving spiritual light. The conversation touches on historical context, including insights into the Shaker community, and the need for compassionate understanding of differing beliefs. Franklin even shares a fascinating encounter with a rattlesnake-handling congregation, sparking reflections on unconventional faith expressions.