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Hank Smith & John Bytheway
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 6, 2025 • 9min
He's Older than His Parents • followHIM Favorites • November 10-16 • Come Follow Me
Explore the heartwarming story of an 82-year-old man adopted by a loving family, highlighting the unexpected connections that can form. Contrast his difficult early years in institutions with the nurturing upbringing of his new family. Delve into the emotional journey of legal adoption and the blessings that followed. Discover the profound impact of family inclusion and the joy it brings. This touching tale serves as a powerful reminder of belonging and the eternal bonds we create.
19 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 1h 7min
Doctrine & Covenants 129-132 Part 2 • Sis. Brittany Chapman Nash • November 10-16 • Come Follow Me
Brittany Chapman Nash, an author and scholar specializing in Latter-day Saint history and polygamy, dives deep into the complexities of Doctrine and Covenants Section 132. She discusses how personal accounts can shift perceptions about plural marriage from anger to understanding. Brittany highlights the unique context of the revelation aimed at Emma Smith and clarifies that belief in plural marriage is not a prerequisite for faith. She explores themes of consent, agency, and the historical implications of this controversial practice among the Saints.
28 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 1h 3min
Doctrine & Covenants 129-132 Part 1 • Sis. Brittany Chapman Nash • November 10-16 • Come Follow Me
Historian Brittany Chapman Nash, an expert in 19th-century Latter-day Saint women's history, dives deep into Doctrine and Covenants 129-132. She explores Joseph Smith’s insights on discernment and the nature of God, emphasizing how early Saints understood these doctrines. Brittany shares the importance of balancing intellect and feelings in spiritual experiences. The discussion moves to the sociality of heaven, including eternal relationships and friendships. She also addresses the complexities of polygamy and the implications of intelligence in the afterlife.
Nov 4, 2025 • 1h 38min
Voices of the Restoration #12 • Baptism for Our Ancestors, “a Glorious Doctrine” • Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat • Nov 3 - 9 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat, a historian and expert on early Latter-day Saint history, delves into the significance of baptism for the dead. He explains how Joseph Smith challenged Protestant beliefs by emphasizing baptism's necessity for salvation and the evolution of this doctrine. Dirkmaat shares compelling stories, including Joseph's vision of his brother Alvin in the celestial kingdom and the initial reactions to baptisms for the dead. He highlights the central role of temple work in LDS theology and emphasizes the joy found in performing these sacred ordinances for ancestors.
4 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 5min
The Name that Found Her • followHIM Favorites • November 3-9 • Come Follow Me
Dive into a heartfelt discussion about baptisms for the dead, sparked by a touching family history discovery in Suriname. Hear about Sister Luzanne’s urgent spiritual promptings that led her to perform ordinances for her ancestor, Eva Dorsen. The emotional weight of completing ordinances for over 90 relatives highlights the powerful connections within family ties. John and Hank reflect on the significance of such promptings and the rich stories behind each ancestor, making this episode a profound exploration of faith and heritage.
71 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 18min
Doctrine & Covenants 125-128 Part 2 • Dr. Jordan Watkins • November 3-9 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Jordan Watkins, a religious historian specializing in early Latter-day Saint history, sheds light on the profound connections between record-keeping, baptism for the dead, and community healing. He discusses how Joseph Smith's revelations bridged law and theology, emphasizing the importance of precise records for salvation. Watkins draws parallels between historical records and their lasting impact on familial connections, even referencing Schindler's List as a metaphor for life's continuities. He stresses the necessity of proxy work, asserting that both the living and the deceased contribute to spiritual restoration.
57 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 17min
Doctrine & Covenants 125-128 Part 1 • Dr. Jordan Watkins • November 3-9 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Jordan Watkins, a historian and author of 'Slavery and Sacred Texts', dives deep into the transformative power of baptism for the dead. He shares how early Saints found solace in this practice amidst grief and loss. Watkins connects Christ’s vicarious atonement to the concept of proxy work, highlighting its roots in divine interdependence. He also discusses the historical context of early Christian practices and narrates poignant personal stories, including Joseph Smith's quest to provide salvation for unbaptized loved ones.
Oct 28, 2025 • 1h 28min
Voices of the Restoration #11 • The Relief Society • Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat • Oct 27 - Nov 2 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat, a historian specializing in Latter-day Saint history, unveils the fascinating origins of the Relief Society, rooted in early temple revelations and a sewing initiative by Sarah Granger Kimball. He discusses Joseph Smith's unique approach to organizing women under priesthood authority and the society's dual mission of charity and spiritual education. The conversation highlights pivotal figures like Emma Smith and Eliza R. Snow while exploring the Relief Society's evolving role in women's civic engagement and leadership throughout the 19th century.
Oct 23, 2025 • 3min
Two Inches. One Decision. • followHIM Favorites • October 27 - November 2 • Come Follow Me
The hosts dive into Hiram's integrity, reflecting on a divine affirmation that resonates deeply. A fascinating football story by Elder Werthlin highlights the importance of choosing integrity over fleeting success. They draw parallels between sportsmanship and moral choices, using golf to illustrate how rules reflect deeper values. The conversation blends inspiration with relatable anecdotes, making a compelling case for living authentically. Plus, a tease for upcoming discussions keeps listeners engaged for what’s next!
42 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 59min
Doctrine & Covenants 124 Part 2 • Dr. Liz Darger • October 27 - November 2 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Liz Darger, a religious scholar and educator, dives into the depth of Nauvoo-era revelations, illuminating topics like baptisms for the dead and the intersection of mercy and salvation. She explores the vital role of women in priesthood power and the origins of the Relief Society, showcasing remarkable figures like Clarissa Smith Williams. Liz also offers practical advice for single Latter-day Saints on building community and highlights the enduring power of covenants, emphasizing that striving is more important than perfection in our spiritual journeys.
