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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
20 snips
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.
74 snips
Oct 30, 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.
61 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!
44 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.
71 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 1h 15min
Doctrine & Covenants 124 Part 1 • Dr. Liz Darger • October 27 - November 2 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Liz Darger, a senior associate athletic director at BYU and expert in student-athlete development, shares insights on rebuilding after life's unexpected turns. She connects the Saints' Nauvoo experiences to modern themes of humility and faith. Liz discusses how 'nudges' can lead to leadership and emphasizes using everyday platforms, including sports, to share one's faith. She reflects on the need for community and the importance of crafting welcoming spaces for seekers, showcasing how personal excellence can serve as a powerful influence.
40 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 2h 12min
Voices of the Restoration #10 • Liberty Jail • Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat • Oct 20-26 • Come Follow Me
Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat, a historian specializing in Latter-day Saint history, shares riveting insights on Liberty Jail and its significance. He explores the turbulent political backdrop that led to the persecution of the Saints and recounts the shocking details of the Gallatin Election Day brawl. Dirkmaat discusses Joseph Smith's leadership during imprisonment and the profound revelations received in Liberty Jail, including themes of comfort and counsel for the church. The conversation reveals how suffering shaped testimonies and insights into church organization and conduct.
4 snips
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.
