

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

Jul 24, 2025 • 5min
I Don't Like Church! • followHIM Favorites • July 28 - August 3 • Come Follow Me
Discover the incredible journey of a deacon's quorum as they form a unique bond with their neighbor, Alan. The discussion highlights how service can transform lives, creating meaningful connections and spiritual growth. Listeners will be inspired by the power of companionship and the profound impact it has on both the servers and those they serve.

Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 20min
Doctrine & Covenants 84 Part 2 • Dr. Jared Halverson • July 28 - Aug 3 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Jared Halverson, a religious educator and scholar, dives into the importance of priesthood ordinances and their connections to the Book of Mormon. He discusses how both men and women can engage in these spiritual practices and the collective role of the church in missionary work. The conversation emphasizes adapting spiritual discussions to connect with diverse audiences, the urgent call to share messages of love, and the significance of compassionate outreach in faith communities. Ultimately, it’s about nurturing relationships and finding unity through shared beliefs.

Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 12min
Doctrine & Covenants 84 Part 1 • Dr. Jared Halverson • July 28 - Aug 3 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Jared Halverson, an expert in religious history and an advocate for interfaith dialogue, shares fascinating insights about Doctrine and Covenants 84. They delve into the significance of priesthood ordinances within God's restoration. The discussion highlights historical context, the differences between Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods, and the role of Zion in contemporary faith practices. Halverson also shares personal stories and reflections on the transformative power of communal spirituality, emphasizing the importance of embracing divine encounters fearlessly.

Jul 17, 2025 • 3min
When 2nd Place Won the Race • followHIM Favorites • July 21 - 27 • Come Follow Me
In a heartwarming tale, runners Abel Mutai and Ivan Fernandez illustrate the powerful theme of integrity in competition. Their story reveals how selflessness and supporting others can transcend personal ambition. The discussion highlights the importance of deep values in shaping our actions and the impact of choosing help over personal gain. It's a captivating reminder of human spirit and camaraderie on and off the track.

80 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 59min
Doctrine & Covenants 81-83 Part 2 • Dr. Eva Witesman • July 21-27 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Eva Witesman, a BYU scholar specializing in non-profits, shares fascinating insights on the Law of Consecration and the importance of caring for the poor and vulnerable. She discusses the significance of stewardship through personal experiences and scriptural interpretations. Engaging topics include the cyclical nature of forgiveness and judgment, historical challenges faced by disenfranchised groups, and the vital role of community support. Witesman emphasizes the empowerment of women and children and the transformative power of shared wealth and spiritual responsibility.

77 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 22min
Doctrine & Covenants 81-83 Part 1 • Dr. Eva Witesman • July 21-27 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Eva Witesman, an expert in strategic planning and director of the Ballard Center for Social Impact, dives into Doctrine and Covenants 81-83. She discusses the meaning of spiritual callings and the mantle of priesthood authority. The conversation reveals the importance of councils in church governance and nurturing dialogue within communities. Witesman highlights evolving roles in social care, illustrating how personal engagement can transform lives. Finally, she emphasizes the significance of compassionate service and the unfolding narrative of Zion's growth.

Jul 10, 2025 • 5min
From Mockery to Miracle • followHIM Favorites • July 14 - 20 • Come Follow Me
Explore the bold defense of Lucy Mack Smith as she outsmarts a Presbyterian minister to protect her son. Delve into Jared Carter's adventurous missions, filled with humor and unexpected clothing expectations for missionaries of the time. It’s a blend of personal courage and quirky historical insights that bring the past to life.

66 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 59min
Doctrine & Covenants 77-80 Part 2 • Dr. Matthew Hinton • July 14 - July 20 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Matthew Hinton, an expert on religious texts, delves into the essence of creating Zion, emphasizing God's patience and mission for humanity. He discusses how faith and community can transform lives, drawing parallels with influential figures from the Restoration movement. Hinton highlights the significance of eternal perspectives, humility, and service in spiritual growth. He also explores divine revelation's personal impact, showcasing how ordinary individuals can effect profound change through their faith and commitment to God's principles.

61 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 11min
Doctrine & Covenants 77-80 Part 1 • Dr. Matthew Hinton • July 14 - July 20 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Matthew Hinton, a pre-service trainer for seminaries and institutes, delves into the rich symbolism of Doctrine and Covenants 77-80. He discusses the significance of beasts, angels, and scrolls in understanding God's character and His plan for humanity. The conversation emphasizes spiritual preparedness for modern believers, revealing insights from apocalyptic literature and its relevance today. Hinton also shares a personal story of resilience amidst health challenges, illustrating the profound comfort of faith in Jesus Christ.

41 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 2h 9min
Voices of the Restoration #7 • Testimonies of "The Vision" • Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat • July 7-13 • Come Follow Me
In this discussion with Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat, an expert on early Latter-day Saint history, listeners dive deep into the transformative impact of Joseph Smith's 'The Vision' on theology. They explore contrasting views on salvation, highlighting the unique perspectives of Latter-day Saints versus mainstream Christianity. Dirkmaat shares illuminating insights on divine justice, the significance of personal agency, and the complexities of prophetic belief. His reflections on mercy and universal salvation reveal a hopeful view of the afterlife that emphasizes compassion and redemption.