

followHIM
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

Oct 16, 2025 • 8min
Broken, but Not Down • followHIM Favorites • October 20-26 • Come Follow Me
This week delves into the theme of finding peace amidst life's trials. A heartwarming story about Elder Holland's family car troubles during a road trip illustrates the importance of perspective. The narrative draws on a poignant moment where Elder Holland imagines reaching out to his younger self, encouraging perseverance. The discussion wraps up with insights on how the family's challenges shaped their futures, highlighting the strength found in overcoming adversity.

15 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 46min
Doctrine & Covenants 121-123 Part 2 • Dr. David Holland • Oct 20 - Oct 26 • Come Follow Me
Dr. David Holland, a historian from Harvard, delves into the nuances of Doctrine and Covenants 121-123. He explores the distinction between being called and being chosen, highlighting how our choices shape our spiritual paths. Intriguingly, he uses the Oreo-rat analogy to discuss personal sacrifices for worldly pleasures. The conversation touches on the historical context of 19th-century religious persecution, Joseph Smith's advocacy for religious freedom, and the importance of facing life's challenges with cheerfulness and faith.

13 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 59min
Doctrine & Covenants 121-123 Part 1 • Dr. David Holland • Oct 20 - Oct 26 • Come Follow Me
Dr. David Holland, Bartlett Professor of New England Church History at Harvard Divinity School, shares profound insights on the experiences of Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail. He discusses five fundamental principles of discipleship that emerge from suffering and how God's promise of ongoing revelation flows like a river. Dr. Holland reflects on the beauty found in despair, the balance between priesthood authority and righteousness, and the significance of friendship with God during trials. His perspectives encourage listeners to embrace faith amid challenges.

Oct 9, 2025 • 7min
Faith Paid My Tuition • followHIM Favorites • October 13-19 • Come Follow Me
Two hosts explore compelling lessons from recent scriptures, touching on a Brazilian student's tough choice between tithing and tuition fees. A moving story unfolds as she recalls the peace found in keeping her baptismal promises and the surprising support from her employer. Discussions on gratitude and the Malachi promise highlight the profound connection between obedience and divine blessings. Tithing emerges as not just a duty but a powerful test of faith, discovering how giving enriches the giver's life.

37 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 59min
Doctrine & Covenants 115-120 Part 2 • Dr. Alex Baugh • Oct 13 - Oct 19 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Alexander Baugh, a renowned professor and church historian, dives into the intriguing revelations of Doctrine & Covenants sections 115-120. He clarifies myths about Adam-ondi-Ahman and discusses the historical context behind the 1838 Far West revelations. Baugh emphasizes the practical implications of tithing and shares inspiring stories of faith, like that of Amanda Barnes Smith, who exhibits resilience amid adversity. The exploration of church leadership's calls to England and the significance of consecration provides listeners with rich insights into Latter-day Saint history.

41 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 7min
Doctrine & Covenants 115-120 Part 1 • Dr. Alex Baugh • Oct 13 - Oct 19 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Alexander Baugh, a specialist in early Latter-day Saint history, dives into the crucial role of Far West during the Restoration. He discusses the establishment of church headquarters and how trials in 1838 shaped the future. Baugh highlights the significance of Adam-ondi-Ahman and ties it to Joseph Smith's revelations. The guest also reflects on the evolution of the church's name, the planning for a temple, and the hopes that sacred sites in Missouri will play a role in future events. His insights illuminate the rich historical tapestry of the Saints.

5 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 4min
Go! Sports Team, Go! • followHIM Favorites • Oct 5 - Oct 12 • Come Follow Me
This week's discussion dives into the significance of memorizing and applying scripture with memorable phrases. A football analogy illustrates how sequence impacts outcomes, highlighting the necessity of order in life. The hosts encourage listeners to trust Heavenly Father’s timing, reinforcing that everything is orchestrated for our benefit. They compare spiritual readiness to a football receiver, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to receive blessings. Tune in for insights and inspiration!

43 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 54min
Doctrine & Covenants 111-114 Part 2 • Dr. Susan Black • Oct 6 - Oct 12 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Susan Easton Black, a renowned Church historian and BYU professor, delves into historical insights from Doctrine & Covenants 111-114. She discusses the rise and fall of Thomas B. Marsh, emphasizing the importance of humility. The conversation also explores doctrinal clarifications on Isaiah, revealing Christ’s role as the 'stem' and the church’s connection to priesthood authority. Additionally, Susan recounts the compelling story of David W. Patten, highlighting his conversion, martyrdom, and the turbulent times in early Church history.

50 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 4min
Doctrine & Covenants 111-114 Part 1 • Dr. Susan Black • Oct 6 - Oct 12 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Susan Easton Black, a renowned Latter-day Saint historian and educator, dives deep into the tumultuous post-Kirtland Temple era. She discusses Joseph Smith's desperate search for treasure in Salem to offset church debts and how the church faced financial and leadership crises shortly after the temple dedication. Dr. Black highlights the failed Kirtland Safety Society and the resulting apostasy within the Quorum of the Twelve. She also shares insights on Heber C. Kimball's successful mission to England, which rejuvenated the struggling church.

Sep 29, 2025 • 1h 25min
Voices of the Restoration #9 • Spiritual Manifestations and the Kirtland Temple • Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat • Sept 29-Oct 5 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat, a historian specializing in early Latter-day Saint history, shares profound insights on the Kirtland Temple's dedication. He explains its significance as a miraculous spiritual pinnacle with many witnesses reporting angels and divine manifestations. Dirkmaat discusses early temple ordinances, the role of prophets like Elias and Elijah, and highlights the emotional impact on attendees. The conversation also touches on the subsequent challenges faced by the church, illustrating the struggle between spiritual highs and the trials that followed.