John Larsens ability to deliver information simply and direct is refreshing . I learn so much every time I listen . he as a gift for teaching that very few people have , miss mormon expression. absolutely loved this interview
I left the church in my heart and soul at age 10 in 1951, and then had to fight off my obsessive cult mother for another sixty years. I discovered John Larsen yesterday at age 81, and he has been for me the best therapist of my entire life. What a treasure!
This probably one of the most thoughtful and truthful discussions about the human experience that I have ever heard. 2015 policy casted a ton a doubt in my mind about the church. When our family was shook that our only daughter told us she felt like a boy and was transgender in 2018. I have received so much joy listening to John and the discussion he has with people of with different backgrounds. He is a compassionate human being.
Timestamps: (Like for Visibility) 0:00:00 - Introducing John Larsen and Mormon Expression 0:09:22 - The End of Mormon Expression 0:18:27 - QAnon and the relationship to the early church 0:21:42 - More Mormon Expression/Misunderstanding scripture 0:24:50 - Being An ex-ExMormon 0:33:31 - Is the world better without the church? 0:38:42 - The infection of the right-wing in the church (short) 0:40:26 - Children, social media culture, lack of religion 0:47:25 - The "Deterioration of Society" and the role of religion in America 0:56:07 - Divorce and Stereotypes 1:04:32 - John Larsen's relationship after the divorce 1:06:23 - Sexuality 1:32:32 - Psychedelics 1:41:48 - Breaking the bubble of Mormonism, "we suck!" 2:14:32 - Buddhism and Spirituality ------------------------- 2:24:15 - Mormonism Discussion Begins 2:26:44 - Russell M. Nelson & the Coronavirus Pandemic 2:32:51 - Mormonism's relationship to Anti-government, Conservatism, QAnon 2:46:58 - Defending the indefensible/apologetics 2:50:18 - "The church has blood on it's hands." 3:03:39 - Church finances and repentance 3:14:49 - What do mormons believe in? The future of mormonism 3:22:12 - The tragedy of new communities and the future 3:37:53 - Making the change within, what's effective, the internet
John Larson, his the wisest Mormon or exmormon I have ever listened to. I do not agree with all he says but he has a profound ability to cut through to the core of any topic.
I'd forgotten how much John and Zilpha helped me while I was drowning back in 2014/5. You guys did all the hefting while my world was crashing. Love from South Africa. 🇿🇦
John D. The absolutely loved this episode. I am embarrassed that I was not aware of John Larson. What a great teacher. I love his raw approach and his brilliance. His perspectives on so many topics is refreshing. I am going to watch his podcasts. Thank you’re both of you.
We love you JL. Mormon Expression was a ray of light, humor and support at a time in my life when I felt the most alone and my world was collapsing around me.
Mormon Expressions are my favorite Mormon Podcasts. I binged them all during my exit from Mormonism. Always loved how John Larsen was so blunt about Mormon stuff, as he was again in this podcast. No bullshit just simple facts and logic.
I love John Larsen’s humor. I want to be his friend! 🤣 But really he is so matter of fact. I wish I had come across John & John earlier. I am JUST NOW finding out about all of this. Talk about a bubble & I don’t live in Utah! The bubble has been popped though & I am reveling in it. Soaking it up. I actually look forward to my ex, ex ex, ex ex ex stages as he puts it. That actually made me feel better & less anxious about how I’m feeling now.
I love John Larsen. He strives to be CLEAR in his communication and I appreciate that. I also love what he said about consciousness as a human being more of a spiritual experience than a religion could ever provide. ❤️❤️❤️
As an X-Bishop, this podcast is excellent. There are many important points to this presentation that everyone (Mormons) should take the time to listen to these valid points about the Church. Keep up the great work, both Johns!!!
❤️ LOVED the depth in this episode! Top of my faves list! Articulates exactly what I have trouble voicing, wrapped up with a bright ribbon of inspiration. Thank you both for this episode !
So good to hear from John again! Beginning in 2013, I went from John Larsen to John Dehlin to Infants on Thrones. I still listen. I guess it’s true that I can leave the church, but I can’t leave it alone 😔
@ 3:55 John said, "How do we tell the truth with kindness?" I think it's how we use our voices, that kindness and gentleness and calmness of the spoken word convey the facts without the barriers that are created by angry voices. The truth can then get through.
This is one of my favorite Mormon Stories episodes in the catalog. John Larsen is “the shit” and every time he spoke, I found myself nodding in agreement and audibly saying (or screaming), “Yes!” I’m grateful to John Larsen for the reminder that we have such bigger issues to be focused on. As an ex-ex-Mormon we have a world that needs help, has big issues, and we need to be there to make a positive impact for all, not just for ex-Mormons. While I love to “scratch my ex-Mormon itch” I need to let that scab heal, and move on. This episode also gave me greater insights into John Dehlin. In many recent episodes I see him ask the same questions over-and-over again … we might need “good” religion, right? … non-monogamy will only end in divorce and pain, right? … we’d be “better” or “more moral” or “happier” if we’d just stayed in religion, right? … I love how John Larsen points out (paraphrasing), “Everything isn’t binary. There is no simple yes/no answer that applies universally.” Thanks to both John Dehlin and John Larsen for such an outstanding episode! It would be fun to see them reconvene on a semi-annual basis to catch up on what’s happening in the world and in Mormonism.
I love how he briefly talked about his kids. As an adult "high functioning" autistic woman it's refreshing. Mormon always talk about their kids like they are a trial and it's super dehumanizing.
20:25 - the connection isn't poverty. The people at the insurrection were the petit bourgeois; business owners, and upper middle class white people. Many flew in with private jets, were off-duty cops, etc. I do agree that we are all separated by class more than anything else. But there is a significant difference between protestors throughout the political spectrum.
It’s simply because outside of his area of expertise, Mormon history, (or for JonD, Mormon therapy) he has no more idea of what he is talking about that anyone picked at random in the comments. He will mock Qanon, but does he still believe his closely held conspiracy theories that have been disproven? Probably, yes.
I'm just listening to this 2 years later. I love John Larsen. I could listen to him all day. Smart, wise; he just gets it, such a great human. We get so wrapped around this outrage culture and us-against-them BS. None of that matters... none of it is doing anyone any good. Be happy.
I am currently reading Sapiens and listening to the Secular Buddhism podcast, both recommended by Zelph on the Shelf and this podcast coincides with both of those so well. Many things were addressed that I have currently been pondering and studying. Great discussion!
I now love this guy, and never knew about him. Thanks for this, John D. And in case some advice like this hasn't surfaced - it is very easy to create a new RSS feed for Mormon Expression, especially via something like Libsyn. You would only need to sign up with the most expensive option at first to upload every episode, and then drop down to the $5 - $7 / month tier to host it indefinitely. It could also be archived on RUclips. If assistance is required for either of these, I will make myself available. Cheers - Dan
I should add: I wish my husband hadn't let those missionaries in the door in the 50's. It was what he needed then (I guess, I only met him in the 80's) but I am seeing how much this whole family has been made smaller in their souls. 💔💔💔 And the further away I get, the sadder it looks from here.
At about 2:45: The problem is that we have moved from giving reverence to what the temple represents and symbolizes to the the temple experience itself.
Bravo! Bravo! John and John I want to hear more! John Larsen I agree with you wholly about saving the environment. It is foundational. It had always been a mystery to me while I was an active member, why the Church had never taught about the meta moral necessity of addressing social justice and environmental degradation. Now I know a bit of why. I just didn't realize the incredible scale of the corruption in service of preserving the corporate power of the church. I guess it's pretty obvious. Now, what to do about it. Both of you have shown a vision that creates a stunning contrast to the Church's counterfeit of truth. The best part is, you are inspiring action I can resinate with. What a bonus!
John Larsen was one of the most influential podcasts to help my mind open. 😵I learned sooooo much about Mormonism from John and his panel! You’re up there as well, John Dehlin😉 Infants on Thrones is another! 😊
Agree. Because I don't wanna scroll back to the start, I'll comment here that I'm very surprised that Larsen says how common non-monogamy is, even with orthodox mormons.
I’m no activist and I’m not on the church’s radar, but I’ve had same inner questioning ,John D. I think quite natural as a parent when we see our kids struggling. Yes I agree, John L, about social media! I’m so grateful #givethanks ;) that I was able to live most of my life without it
Mormon stories is also a superhero 🦸♂️ Finishing episode now: best quote was “the greatest gift exmormons were given was to realize they’ve been really wrong about something” So true.
John Larsen is great. I really want to hear more from him as far as the QAnon stuff. I come from a super conservative women as 2nd class citizens Evangelical Christianity and constantly battle the guilt becoming "more liberal" as I get older, understand the world better, and flat out have more compassion for humans and this earth. I left WELS Lutheranism 20 years ago and am still haunted by it. Chris Hedges would be a great guest.
I absolutely love where are they now? I’d love to know how some of the older faith transitions are doing. Like the Lusks...etc. my husband and I officially resigned today :) my daughters goes out in the mail tomorrow and my son next week they are adults and by next Friday we will be all out. Mo no More😍
I gotta say, I agree With John D. We need more advocacy for the Ex-Mormon world. When I left I didn’t know religious trauma was a thing. If there was more advocacy back then maybe I could’ve got some help and some crap wouldn’t have happened. So yeah let’s be advocates for this movement! It’s important for the new exmos coming out.
Woah! I love it when the gloves come off! Super insightful banter, really enjoyed it🙏 Sometimes feels like I’m alone out here.! Thanks again guys, but I am afraid the climate has us by the short ones, “ Locked in a prison of our own device” James Douglas Morrison“ Only Love Survives” Guy McPherson
Just out of curiosity considering John's passion for the environment, racism, decimation of forests and suffering...is he vegan? Also as an ex Mo, I can honestly say trying marijuana was a HUGE turning point for me. LSD was another completely eye opening experience and then DMT broke my mind open completely. Life changing 100%. It goes straight to what John is saying about spirituality and who we are in the universe. I would be glad to share my experiences! This was an awesome and important discussion that everyone could benefit from! Thank you for this!
@John Larsen you are great! In every way I can think of, you’re making a difference on this planet. Maybe you don’t need to hear that, but for whatever reason, I needed to say it. Let me listen to what you have to say whenever possible. Thanks. Beyond measure, I’m grateful.
Hi vicky. Don't tell my family I'm listening to this episode. Ha, I'm lancashire too. Emigrated to salt lake city when I was three in 1979. If you know of Oldham ward or Bolton stake or something, you might know my uncle, who I love, stake president Cook. Maybe not likely, just asking.
@@joecook5689 Hi Joe, nice to hear from you... and no I don’t know anyone from the Mormon community.,,, But I do know Bolton/Oldham well. .... (So don’t worry your secret is safe with me 😜) I’m one of John’s audience who is from another faith background. (Ex brand muslim). I love his channel and have really found it useful in my faith transition. There is not much available from a Muslim perspective,,, but it’s all the same concepts tbh. Hope life in Salt Lake City is treating you well. 😊
Re 1:50 -We have who we need when we need it to address the diversity and the volume of outflux of members. People know when they are finished playing in the exmo world. It’s a game, not a destiny. No shame or expectation about when people are DONE with being a “voice” for the exmo world.
Not only are the traditional understandings of religions falling apart because they're suited to a time in history which no longer exists, but even the traditional understanding of science, the basis for materialism, is also cracking apart. What we imagine as solid material things are not really what they appear to be. The latest understandings is that quantum fields of energy are the fundamental reality which morphs into what we see as material stuff, actually an illusion. So Larsen's perception that religion isn't real could also be applied to material things! So if we're going to remain sane, happy, peaceful and fruitful, we need to focus on truth. Imagine the rich conversations this could produce, the level of civilization we could achieve! I feel that the religions of mankind served their purpose in spiritually educating the human race to progressively develop civilizations, to provide the unifying concepts of human oneness, compassion, mercy and love, leading from family unity, to tribal unity, to city-state unity and national unity. The only healthy religious teachings today have to be focused on the unity of the human race. Glorifying any lesser unity may have served a good purpose in the past, but will only cause conflict and decay in today's world. The word "God" is toxic for some, but there are other terms, such as Source, which can be used for the same meaning. It doesn't make sense to believe in the Big Bang, everything arising from nothing, without a Big Banger. We know from science that everything is derived from something. Even the idea that there must be a beginning, something we've learned from religion, isn't necessarily so. There are interesting scientific hypotheses which consider our universe to be like a bubble of reality among an infinite number of such bubbles which are born, live billions of years and then go out of existence. We need to get out of the mindset of traditional religions, which are limiting our thinking, and we need to rise above the materialistic mindset which assumes that only material things are real. But that doesn't mean that the Source of everything is not real. Maybe we just need to develop a new understanding of this ultimate Reality. Maybe we need to admit our own lack of capacity to imagine this Reality. I'm confident that just as the Source provided us with a Buddha, a Jesus, a Zoroaster, or other spiritual Lights when we needed them, it's in the cards that this natural, almost seasonal, gift from the Divine will happen again tailored to the needs of this new age when everything is falling apart. I greatly enjoyed this interview. It was interesting and enlightening even for non-Mormons. And religion and science need to be joined at the hip.
Totally true. I want him to be my best friend too. I've finally figured out how to get rid of the narcissists in my life and I am seeking empaths like John.
This last part talking about the Q phenomenon is really why I have been wading through these podcasts. I’m going back to my mormon roots to try and understand where this insanity is coming from. I have my own theory that this has been a slow moving disaster in the making since the fifties but I cannot for the life of me understand where the tipping point to mass insanity came. It has become clearer to me that this personal research will be fruitless. It feels like I’m going crazy just trying to understand this march towards fascism. Pin ball is the only metaphor that I can come up with to describe how my mind is daily jumping between thinking about economics, belief systems, global warming, cults, plus the horrors of this pandemic. I want to continue to try being tolerant but I’m exhausted. Keep on keeping on John Larsen. Observing another seeker present his journey and thinking into an articulate narrative does make me feel a little less alone.
John L, I'm with you. I'm in favour of the evolution of all of us. Beyond the tribalism and the smallness of mind that causes all the mess, that requires the myth-making, etc, is a more compassionate human. I cannot to go backwards towards, “Maybe this is our safety, maybe our salvation is in this lie.” I also think that if the Church and the world’s structures are in your favor, it’s way easier to think like that. When you’re on the side of the oppressed, it’s less of a fun thought experiment.
As a response to John’s question about how to be kind to many who haven’t realize the harm they cause by misleading people, a set of teachings I have embraced states the is only One even in the illusion .. one fragmented mind thinking/believing it is 7 billion minds and growing aka being asleep, and that when it is ready the mind will awaken to Reality. We made up this dream and will awaken from the dream. No one is left behind because there is and can be only One. The illusory world tries to duplicate oneness aka duality and fails miserably. It also teaches Love has no opposite. Thus when I see error in my brother, I see what I believe about myself on some level. I felt comfortable to share in this way after listening to John Larsen. Listening to him share is like drinking a refreshing drink of water. Duality at its best Forgiveness opportunity abound!
I have never been a Mormon, but I have followed Mormon Stories from the beginning as it paralleled my exit from Christianity. This was a fantastic episode that is useful to anyone. I pulled a ton of nuggets out and posted on Facebook. People don't like to look at themselves, but if they can see the problem with another church eventually they will see their church is the same. The virgin birth is just as ridiculous as Joseph Smith finding golden plates of ancient Israelite Native Americans.
Buddhism concepts helped me get through my divorce and perhaps saved my life 20 years ago. So I’m grateful for it even if it’s still a cult. I just go from one cult to another cherry picking and learning. All good. I’m grateful 🙏🤗
I’m somewhat of a closet political moderate and ex Mormon, and I cannot tell you how many old white devout Mormon conservatives that have conversed with me candidly about their extreme views about executing liberal politicians and spewing QAnon conspiracy theories. I honestly would heavily deny johns claims of such if I hadn’t personally heard it with my own ears
Loved the call to rise as humanity...we are witnessing the great extinction event...that has been on my heart and mind for years. We need to stand back in awe and wonder of ourselves and each other. Dr. Zach Bush is amazing and echos so much what John Larsen said...thank you!!! Thank you both Johns!!
I love John larsen. His library of podcasts is brilliant. His podcast was a validation to my foul mouthed angry phase of leaving. I needed his voice. Thank you John dehlin for keeping up with him and thank you John Larsen for your exceptionaly crafted arguments, your eloquent podcasts, genuine accepting soul and assaulting us with the ‘fuck’ word till we felt comfortable using at will. I needed to hear an exmormon say fuck you to the church that controlled and abused me. Thank you.
Simply *not divorcing is neither inherently good nor moral. Divorce can be a very healthy, even literally life saving action. Very moral, as circumstances dictate what is right and best for each person.
Great dialogue with two great people, when i hear them talking about truth n 3:26:09 i can’t help thinking it’s too bad luther with « sola scriputura » threw philosophy out of christian concern. It seems american christians totally forgot about the philosophical research of middle age in europ.
I'm done with religion and I still despise governments. I also didn't get involved with the Q nuts because I was not a Trump supporter. I have also taken psychedelics, and have had healing experiences with them, and would also recommend a guide.
I agree with others that John Larsen is beyond brilliant and smart, and I very much missed the insight he would give with Mormon expressions. At the same time, it seems that he has become a bit of an alarmist. He seems so much on edge about there being all these catastrophes whether of the mind ,body or soul just around the corner. Kind of reminds me of how the Mormon church kept me believing that for much of my life, and yet none of the boogeymen that I was presented with, ever took form. The world around me has simply just gotten better and better, and I have more reasons to be positive everyday. Maybe I'm simply not seeing what is evident. But it just seems like things aren't as dire as John tends to portray. Color me blind
Meanwhile, wars continue, displaced people die in the seas of Europe, some people applaud when boats with women and children sink, make jokes about bodies floating on the water and devious politicians say they were coming for your jobs. Countries are being devastated because of climate change, if you don’t care about them they will come to you. Americans are so myopic, there’s a world outside of your continent.
This podcast has enlightened me more than any news source. This podcast has given me a clear perspective on Mormonism, the republican party and Qanon. I can't thank you enough for giving John Larsen a voice.
The changes in the 60s started the sexual revolution. Marriage definitely declined, living together the norm outside of extreme religious zealots, even catholics use birth control. The big let down for me as a boomer; I began to see people refusing to go to war, that didn’t last long, unfortunately. The anti materialism soon rebounded and Reagan started the whole religion and politics mess that eventually lead to the Republican Party becoming a party without ideas, logic, a party devoid of any moral or ethical code. P
@@glossypots catholics allow birth control now? Are you sure? Good for them for getting with the times if that's true. Pretty crazy that up until 1984 in catholic Ireland, condoms were illegal to sell.
John Larsens ability to deliver information simply and direct is refreshing . I learn so much every time I listen . he as a gift for teaching that very few people have , miss mormon expression. absolutely loved this interview
I left the church in my heart and soul at age 10 in 1951, and then had to fight off my obsessive cult mother for another sixty years. I discovered John Larsen yesterday at age 81, and he has been for me the best therapist of my entire life. What a treasure!
loved this so much. thanks johns!
This probably one of the most thoughtful and truthful discussions about the human experience that I have ever heard. 2015 policy casted a ton a doubt in my mind about the church. When our family was shook that our only daughter told us she felt like a boy and was transgender in 2018. I have received so much joy listening to John and the discussion he has with people of with different backgrounds. He is a compassionate human being.
Thanks Travis!!!
PLEASE put Mormon Expressions on Spotify! John and John I love your podcasts, keep up the great work!
Second the motion 👋
It is on Spotify.
Timestamps: (Like for Visibility)
0:00:00 - Introducing John Larsen and Mormon Expression
0:09:22 - The End of Mormon Expression
0:18:27 - QAnon and the relationship to the early church
0:21:42 - More Mormon Expression/Misunderstanding scripture
0:24:50 - Being An ex-ExMormon
0:33:31 - Is the world better without the church?
0:38:42 - The infection of the right-wing in the church (short)
0:40:26 - Children, social media culture, lack of religion
0:47:25 - The "Deterioration of Society" and the role of religion in America
0:56:07 - Divorce and Stereotypes
1:04:32 - John Larsen's relationship after the divorce
1:06:23 - Sexuality
1:32:32 - Psychedelics
1:41:48 - Breaking the bubble of Mormonism, "we suck!"
2:14:32 - Buddhism and Spirituality
-------------------------
2:24:15 - Mormonism Discussion Begins
2:26:44 - Russell M. Nelson & the Coronavirus Pandemic
2:32:51 - Mormonism's relationship to Anti-government, Conservatism, QAnon
2:46:58 - Defending the indefensible/apologetics
2:50:18 - "The church has blood on it's hands."
3:03:39 - Church finances and repentance
3:14:49 - What do mormons believe in? The future of mormonism
3:22:12 - The tragedy of new communities and the future
3:37:53 - Making the change within, what's effective, the internet
Thank you Austin!!!
@@mormonstories yw! You can copy this comment into your video description so the chapter feature works on the RUclips video.
Thank you Austin, listening without waders, priceless....
Have one of these chats once a month and John Larsen is quickly back🙏
John Larson, his the wisest Mormon or exmormon I have ever listened to. I do not agree with all he says but he has a profound ability to cut through to the core of any topic.
He's so right on when he says exmormons are the same as faithful ones. Obsessed with the same things. Different conclusions, but good point.
I'd forgotten how much John and Zilpha helped me while I was drowning back in 2014/5. You guys did all the hefting while my world was crashing. Love from South Africa. 🇿🇦
One of my favorites of Mormon Stories...
Mine too! I love him! Extraterrestrial inteligente!
John D. The absolutely loved this episode. I am embarrassed that I was not aware of John Larson. What a great teacher. I love his raw approach and his brilliance. His perspectives on so many topics is refreshing. I am going to watch his podcasts. Thank you’re both of you.
We love you JL. Mormon Expression was a ray of light, humor and support at a time in my life when I felt the most alone and my world was collapsing around me.
Mormon Expressions are my favorite Mormon Podcasts. I binged them all during my exit from Mormonism. Always loved how John Larsen was so blunt about Mormon stuff, as he was again in this podcast. No bullshit just simple facts and logic.
Can’t tell you how thankful I am for this one... the divorce part especially... I’ve been needing to hear this for a year... thank you to both Johns!
Absolutely love listening to John Larsen speak. Thank you.
My TWO favorite John’s!! Both so intelligent and thought provoking. Thank you, MORE please 👏🏻
“10 reasons you know with out a doubt the church isn’t true” BEST John Larsen EPISODE
John. You have literally saved my life, with the messages you've shared. Love and Thanks, Brother!
This is my favorite mormon stories episode of all time
💯
How I have missed John Larsen's voice. Such a great thinker.
I love John Larsen’s humor. I want to be his friend! 🤣 But really he is so matter of fact. I wish I had come across John & John earlier. I am JUST NOW finding out about all of this. Talk about a bubble & I don’t live in Utah! The bubble has been popped though & I am reveling in it. Soaking it up. I actually look forward to my ex, ex ex, ex ex ex stages as he puts it. That actually made me feel better & less anxious about how I’m feeling now.
I love John Larsen. He strives to be CLEAR in his communication and I appreciate that. I also love what he said about consciousness as a human being more of a spiritual experience than a religion could ever provide. ❤️❤️❤️
As an X-Bishop, this podcast is excellent. There are many important points to this presentation that everyone (Mormons) should take the time to listen to these valid points about the Church.
Keep up the great work, both Johns!!!
❤️ LOVED the depth in this episode! Top of my faves list! Articulates exactly what I have trouble voicing, wrapped up with a bright ribbon of inspiration. Thank you both for this episode !
So good to hear from John again! Beginning in 2013, I went from John Larsen to John Dehlin to Infants on Thrones. I still listen. I guess it’s true that I can leave the church, but I can’t leave it alone 😔
John D in my eyes telling the truth about the church is in fact being kind. ❤️
Fair point Kim!!!
@ 3:55 John said, "How do we tell the truth with kindness?"
I think it's how we use our voices, that kindness and gentleness and calmness of the spoken word convey the facts without the barriers that are created by angry voices.
The truth can then get through.
This is one of my favorite Mormon Stories episodes in the catalog. John Larsen is “the shit” and every time he spoke, I found myself nodding in agreement and audibly saying (or screaming), “Yes!”
I’m grateful to John Larsen for the reminder that we have such bigger issues to be focused on. As an ex-ex-Mormon we have a world that needs help, has big issues, and we need to be there to make a positive impact for all, not just for ex-Mormons. While I love to “scratch my ex-Mormon itch” I need to let that scab heal, and move on.
This episode also gave me greater insights into John Dehlin. In many recent episodes I see him ask the same questions over-and-over again … we might need “good” religion, right? … non-monogamy will only end in divorce and pain, right? … we’d be “better” or “more moral” or “happier” if we’d just stayed in religion, right? … I love how John Larsen points out (paraphrasing), “Everything isn’t binary. There is no simple yes/no answer that applies universally.”
Thanks to both John Dehlin and John Larsen for such an outstanding episode! It would be fun to see them reconvene on a semi-annual basis to catch up on what’s happening in the world and in Mormonism.
I love how he briefly talked about his kids. As an adult "high functioning" autistic woman it's refreshing. Mormon always talk about their kids like they are a trial and it's super dehumanizing.
20:25 - the connection isn't poverty. The people at the insurrection were the petit bourgeois; business owners, and upper middle class white people. Many flew in with private jets, were off-duty cops, etc.
I do agree that we are all separated by class more than anything else. But there is a significant difference between protestors throughout the political spectrum.
They say in America they are obsessed with race. In Britain, obsessed with class.
I felt like he missed the mark here too.
It’s simply because outside of his area of expertise, Mormon history, (or for JonD, Mormon therapy) he has no more idea of what he is talking about that anyone picked at random in the comments. He will mock Qanon, but does he still believe his closely held conspiracy theories that have been disproven? Probably, yes.
John Larsen is my spirit animal. Everything this guy says is exactly how I've been thinking about things, he's just much more eloquent.
Aho
Discovering this podcast has been the best thing out of 2022 so far. This content is soul food ❤
Lots of good statements here. Love the peace and oneness connections. We really are all connected and yet acting as though we are disconnected.
We've missed you John! Thank you for this episode.
Watching this again because it’s just so excellent.
I'm just listening to this 2 years later. I love John Larsen. I could listen to him all day. Smart, wise; he just gets it, such a great human. We get so wrapped around this outrage culture and us-against-them BS. None of that matters... none of it is doing anyone any good. Be happy.
I am currently reading Sapiens and listening to the Secular Buddhism podcast, both recommended by Zelph on the Shelf and this podcast coincides with both of those so well. Many things were addressed that I have currently been pondering and studying. Great discussion!
I now love this guy, and never knew about him. Thanks for this, John D. And in case some advice like this hasn't surfaced - it is very easy to create a new RSS feed for Mormon Expression, especially via something like Libsyn. You would only need to sign up with the most expensive option at first to upload every episode, and then drop down to the $5 - $7 / month tier to host it indefinitely. It could also be archived on RUclips. If assistance is required for either of these, I will make myself available. Cheers - Dan
Great historical dialogues, and candid talk.
Definably worth your time.
I should add: I wish my husband hadn't let those missionaries in the door in the 50's. It was what he needed then (I guess, I only met him in the 80's) but I am seeing how much this whole family has been made smaller in their souls. 💔💔💔 And the further away I get, the sadder it looks from here.
At about 2:45:
The problem is that we have moved from giving reverence to what the temple represents and symbolizes to the the temple experience itself.
really appreciate John Larsen’s take on different generational perspectives on religion 👍
Love you John! Great to hear you again!!
Thank you for talking about the “Life Style.”
Bravo! Bravo! John and John I want to hear more! John Larsen I agree with you wholly about saving the environment. It is foundational. It had always been a mystery to me while I was an active member, why the Church had never taught about the meta moral necessity of addressing social justice and environmental degradation. Now I know a bit of why. I just didn't realize the incredible scale of the corruption in service of preserving the corporate power of the church. I guess it's pretty obvious. Now, what to do about it. Both of you have shown a vision that creates a stunning contrast to the Church's counterfeit of truth. The best part is, you are inspiring action I can resinate with. What a bonus!
This is friggin' great. Larsen is badass! More of this, however possible!
I’m loving this. He makes Sooooo much sense!!!
John Larsen was one of the most influential podcasts to help my mind open. 😵I learned sooooo much about Mormonism from John and his panel! You’re up there as well, John Dehlin😉 Infants on Thrones is another! 😊
Agree.
Because I don't wanna scroll back to the start, I'll comment here that I'm very surprised that Larsen says how common non-monogamy is, even with orthodox mormons.
I’m no activist and I’m not on the church’s radar, but I’ve had same inner questioning ,John D. I think quite natural as a parent when we see our kids struggling.
Yes I agree, John L, about social media! I’m so grateful #givethanks ;) that I was able to live most of my life without it
Mormon stories is also a superhero 🦸♂️
Finishing episode now: best quote was “the greatest gift exmormons were given was to realize they’ve been really wrong about something”
So true.
This was amazing...articulate..and on point...its sad that many members are hating good men and women because of bull...
I just love this refreshing man
John Larsen is great. I really want to hear more from him as far as the QAnon stuff. I come from a super conservative women as 2nd class citizens Evangelical Christianity and constantly battle the guilt becoming "more liberal" as I get older, understand the world better, and flat out have more compassion for humans and this earth. I left WELS Lutheranism 20 years ago and am still haunted by it. Chris Hedges would be a great guest.
I absolutely love where are they now? I’d love to know how some of the older faith transitions are doing. Like the Lusks...etc. my husband and I officially resigned today :) my daughters goes out in the mail tomorrow and my son next week they are adults and by next Friday we will be all out. Mo no More😍
Congrats!
Congrats the best lies ahead.
Yes indeed. Mon congrats.
This episode. I mean. Come on. It doesn’t get any better. Bravo!
I gotta say, I agree With John D. We need more advocacy for the Ex-Mormon world. When I left I didn’t know religious trauma was a thing. If there was more advocacy back then maybe I could’ve got some help and some crap wouldn’t have happened. So yeah let’s be advocates for this movement! It’s important for the new exmos coming out.
Woah! I love it when the gloves come off! Super insightful banter, really enjoyed it🙏 Sometimes feels like I’m alone out here.! Thanks again guys, but I am afraid the climate has us by the short ones, “ Locked in a prison of our own device” James Douglas Morrison“ Only Love Survives” Guy McPherson
Just out of curiosity considering John's passion for the environment, racism, decimation of forests and suffering...is he vegan? Also as an ex Mo, I can honestly say trying marijuana was a HUGE turning point for me. LSD was another completely eye opening experience and then DMT broke my mind open completely. Life changing 100%. It goes straight to what John is saying about spirituality and who we are in the universe. I would be glad to share my experiences! This was an awesome and important discussion that everyone could benefit from! Thank you for this!
@John Larsen you are great! In every way I can think of, you’re making a difference on this planet. Maybe you don’t need to hear that, but for whatever reason, I needed to say it. Let me listen to what you have to say whenever possible. Thanks. Beyond measure, I’m grateful.
Hi everyone from Lancashire Uk. 👋
Hi UK!!!
Hi vicky. Don't tell my family I'm listening to this episode. Ha, I'm lancashire too. Emigrated to salt lake city when I was three in 1979. If you know of Oldham ward or Bolton stake or something, you might know my uncle, who I love, stake president Cook. Maybe not likely, just asking.
@@joecook5689 Hi Joe, nice to hear from you... and no I don’t know anyone from the Mormon community.,,, But I do know Bolton/Oldham well. .... (So don’t worry your secret is safe with me 😜) I’m one of John’s audience who is from another faith background. (Ex brand muslim). I love his channel and have really found it useful in my faith transition.
There is not much available from a Muslim perspective,,, but it’s all the same concepts tbh. Hope life in Salt Lake City is treating you well. 😊
@@misswarda78 thanks, mate. It is indeed. Hope yours is too.
@@joecook5689 Yes, all the better for the sanity provided by my ‘virtual family’ on here. ❤️
Thank you.
Re 1:50 -We have who we need when we need it to address the diversity and the volume of outflux of members. People know when they are finished playing in the exmo world. It’s a game, not a destiny. No shame or expectation about when people are DONE with being a “voice” for the exmo world.
John Larsen is bright.
Excellent Trainspotting reference with detox off any drug.
Not only are the traditional understandings of religions falling apart because they're suited to a time in history which no longer exists, but even the traditional understanding of science, the basis for materialism, is also cracking apart. What we imagine as solid material things are not really what they appear to be. The latest understandings is that quantum fields of energy are the fundamental reality which morphs into what we see as material stuff, actually an illusion. So Larsen's perception that religion isn't real could also be applied to material things! So if we're going to remain sane, happy, peaceful and fruitful, we need to focus on truth. Imagine the rich conversations this could produce, the level of civilization we could achieve! I feel that the religions of mankind served their purpose in spiritually educating the human race to progressively develop civilizations, to provide the unifying concepts of human oneness, compassion, mercy and love, leading from family unity, to tribal unity, to city-state unity and national unity. The only healthy religious teachings today have to be focused on the unity of the human race. Glorifying any lesser unity may have served a good purpose in the past, but will only cause conflict and decay in today's world. The word "God" is toxic for some, but there are other terms, such as Source, which can be used for the same meaning. It doesn't make sense to believe in the Big Bang, everything arising from nothing, without a Big Banger. We know from science that everything is derived from something. Even the idea that there must be a beginning, something we've learned from religion, isn't necessarily so. There are interesting scientific hypotheses which consider our universe to be like a bubble of reality among an infinite number of such bubbles which are born, live billions of years and then go out of existence. We need to get out of the mindset of traditional religions, which are limiting our thinking, and we need to rise above the materialistic mindset which assumes that only material things are real. But that doesn't mean that the Source of everything is not real. Maybe we just need to develop a new understanding of this ultimate Reality. Maybe we need to admit our own lack of capacity to imagine this Reality. I'm confident that just as the Source provided us with a Buddha, a Jesus, a Zoroaster, or other spiritual Lights when we needed them, it's in the cards that this natural, almost seasonal, gift from the Divine will happen again tailored to the needs of this new age when everything is falling apart.
I greatly enjoyed this interview. It was interesting and enlightening even for non-Mormons. And religion and science need to be joined at the hip.
I really, really want John Larsen to be my best friend.
Totally true. I want him to be my best friend too. I've finally figured out how to get rid of the narcissists in my life and I am seeking empaths like John.
This last part talking about the Q phenomenon is really why I have been wading through these podcasts. I’m going back to my mormon roots to try and understand where this insanity is coming from. I have my own theory that this has been a slow moving disaster in the making since the fifties but I cannot for the life of me understand where the tipping point to mass insanity came. It has become clearer to me that this personal research will be fruitless. It feels like I’m going crazy just trying to understand this march towards fascism. Pin ball is the only metaphor that I can come up with to describe how my mind is daily jumping between thinking about economics, belief systems, global warming, cults, plus the horrors of this pandemic. I want to continue to try being tolerant but I’m exhausted. Keep on keeping on John Larsen. Observing another seeker present his journey and thinking into an articulate narrative does make me feel a little less alone.
Mankind needs to grow up. Greed is root of all troubles here.
John L, I'm with you.
I'm in favour of the evolution of all of us. Beyond the tribalism and the smallness of mind that causes all the mess, that requires the myth-making, etc, is a more compassionate human.
I cannot to go backwards towards, “Maybe this is our safety, maybe our salvation is in this lie.”
I also think that if the Church and the world’s structures are in your favor, it’s way easier to think like that. When you’re on the side of the oppressed, it’s less of a fun thought experiment.
As a response to John’s question about how to be kind to many who haven’t realize the harm they cause by misleading people, a set of teachings I have embraced states the is only One even in the illusion .. one fragmented mind thinking/believing it is 7 billion minds and growing aka being asleep, and that when it is ready the mind will awaken to Reality.
We made up this dream and will awaken from the dream.
No one is left behind because there is and can be only One. The illusory world tries to duplicate oneness aka duality and fails miserably.
It also teaches Love has no opposite. Thus when I see error in my brother, I see what I believe about myself on some level.
I felt comfortable to share in this way after listening to John Larsen. Listening to him share is like drinking a refreshing drink of water.
Duality at its best
Forgiveness opportunity abound!
I love John Larsen!!
I have never been a Mormon, but I have followed Mormon Stories from the beginning as it paralleled my exit from Christianity.
This was a fantastic episode that is useful to anyone. I pulled a ton of nuggets out and posted on Facebook. People don't like to look at themselves, but if they can see the problem with another church eventually they will see their church is the same.
The virgin birth is just as ridiculous as Joseph Smith finding golden plates of ancient Israelite Native Americans.
I always wondered how non mormons thought about mormons.
Such an unassuming title to this video, but they're just there solving all of the world's problems.
great episode
Incredible. I think everyone should see this even if they have no connection with Mormonism. The Johns are woke af
💯💯💯💯
Buddhism concepts helped me get through my divorce and perhaps saved my life 20 years ago. So I’m grateful for it even if it’s still a cult. I just go from one cult to another cherry picking and learning. All good. I’m grateful 🙏🤗
I’m somewhat of a closet political moderate and ex Mormon, and I cannot tell you how many old white devout Mormon conservatives that have conversed with me candidly about their extreme views about executing liberal politicians and spewing QAnon conspiracy theories. I honestly would heavily deny johns claims of such if I hadn’t personally heard it with my own ears
Loved the call to rise as humanity...we are witnessing the great extinction event...that has been on my heart and mind for years. We need to stand back in awe and wonder of ourselves and each other. Dr. Zach Bush is amazing and echos so much what John Larsen said...thank you!!! Thank you both Johns!!
Regarding sex and non-monogamy here is the perfect opportunity to plug Esther Perel. Important and helpful
I love John larsen. His library of podcasts is brilliant. His podcast was a validation to my foul mouthed angry phase of leaving. I needed his voice. Thank you John dehlin for keeping up with him and thank you John Larsen for your exceptionaly crafted arguments, your eloquent podcasts, genuine accepting soul and assaulting us with the ‘fuck’ word till we felt comfortable using at will. I needed to hear an exmormon say fuck you to the church that controlled and abused me. Thank you.
Simply *not divorcing is neither inherently good nor moral. Divorce can be a very healthy, even literally life saving action. Very moral, as circumstances dictate what is right and best for each person.
"This man's jam....and he screwed the pooch" LMAO
AWESOME, ABSOLUTELY AWESOME
Great dialogue with two great people, when i hear them talking about truth n 3:26:09 i can’t help thinking it’s too bad luther with « sola scriputura » threw philosophy out of christian concern. It seems american christians totally forgot about the philosophical research of middle age in europ.
Wow!
💯❣️
I’m just waking up the last few years to what my hearts known for a long time. Where do I listen to the Mormon Expression podcast?
I’m just finally watching this video, and John D saying the s word so hesitantly had me busting up 😂
I've GOTTA hear all about this last-to-get-the-chocolates thing! 😂
That guy is really wise.
I'm done with religion and I still despise governments. I also didn't get involved with the Q nuts because I was not a Trump supporter. I have also taken psychedelics, and have had healing experiences with them, and would also recommend a guide.
I agree with others that John Larsen is beyond brilliant and smart, and I very much missed the insight he would give with Mormon expressions. At the same time, it seems that he has become a bit of an alarmist. He seems so much on edge about there being all these catastrophes whether of the mind ,body or soul just around the corner. Kind of reminds me of how the Mormon church kept me believing that for much of my life, and yet none of the boogeymen that I was presented with, ever took form. The world around me has simply just gotten better and better, and I have more reasons to be positive everyday. Maybe I'm simply not seeing what is evident. But it just seems like things aren't as dire as John tends to portray. Color me blind
If it quacks like a duck and walks like a duck… the climate alarmists seem cultish because it is also a cult.
Meanwhile, wars continue, displaced people die in the seas of Europe, some people applaud when boats with women and children sink, make jokes about bodies floating on the water and devious politicians say they were coming for your jobs. Countries are being devastated because of climate change, if you don’t care about them they will come to you. Americans are so myopic, there’s a world outside of your continent.
Are we related? I like John!
John D what years did you go to BYU
87 - 93. Mission from 88-90.
This podcast has enlightened me more than any news source. This podcast has given me a clear perspective on Mormonism, the republican party and Qanon. I can't thank you enough for giving John Larsen a voice.
Four hours of John Dehlin trying to get John Larsen to put things in a box, and John larsen kept saying that there is no box to put it in.
I wanted to listen to John Larsen for another 4 hours!
Does anyone else think that marriage is an unnecessary social construct? Love is just love right?
Talking about Trumpism in the church but didn't Mitt fight and warn agaisnt Trump?
23:55 it's soup...for my family
why the hell did you apply to byu if you were exmormon?
They tried free love in the sixties. Lasted a week.
Wow! That’s a long time to last before the blue pill. Put some respec on it😧
The changes in the 60s started the sexual revolution. Marriage definitely declined, living together the norm outside of extreme religious zealots, even catholics use birth control. The big let down for me as a boomer; I began to see people refusing to go to war, that didn’t last long, unfortunately. The anti materialism soon rebounded and Reagan started the whole religion and politics mess that eventually lead to the Republican Party becoming a party without ideas, logic, a party devoid of any moral or ethical code.
P
@@glossypots catholics allow birth control now? Are you sure? Good for them for getting with the times if that's true. Pretty crazy that up until 1984 in catholic Ireland, condoms were illegal to sell.
At least write a book or two or three