I’m 69 yrs old. I believed in Mormonism until 3 years ago. Since I discovered that I preferred boys at 12 I have thought I was going to burn in Hell forever. In 2018 I found the real history of joe smith and the lies of the Mormon church. Now I’m an atheist and really happy with life.
From one 69 year old to another...Congratulations! I am so glad you are happy now and many more years to share your joy. I left the church 12 years ago and wish so much it had been sooner.
I was raised loosely in reform Judaism. I have no idea why I'm so obsessed with Ex mormon content, but I am. And THESE GUYS ARE MY FAVES ❤ I love them, I've been so excited for this 🥺
I was raised culturally Jewish and became a Catholic at 40. I"m fascinated by religion and love exMormons and these two. I always wanted to learn about religions, and the fact the the Mormon temple and teachings were kept secret always made me wary. These exMormons are so lovely and so brave to share this material with us.
There are asexual people. Just want to ensure they are included in the conversation, not every human is driven by sex and that is okay. I see you, I recognize you, I accept you.
100%! I was just coming to say the same thing having got to the ‘everyone’s biologically wired to partner up and have sex’ bit. Nope. Not the case. Love that Jordan & McKay frequently acknowledge asexual and aromantic-spectrum people and how the whole setup of the Mormon church is so incompatible with Ace-ness.
@@KaiserSoze-us9jiI think if you actually did the research, you would probably find that there are ace dogs or dogs that just aren’t interested in copulating. In fact, roughly 3% of sheep are asexual.
I know this comment is 2 years old, but I also just wanted to say thank you for saying this. I don't often see people online mention it in such a supportive manner. As an aroace, I appreciate you.
The fact that they have said they're not "cool enough" to be on this podcast makes me so unbelievably proud to see them on here. This is by far the most excited I've been for an episode
News flash! Conservative Evangelicalism puts the same requirements on their kids and teens, conformity of dress and personal appearance, restrictions on language, music, movies, entertainment, association with non-believers, sexual information and purity. The only difference is we don't have to get certified by the bishop.
I remember that too and I'm like with tens of thousands of subs it's going to happen. ❤️ they were basically my gateway into listening to ex Mormons talk about things when I hear them on dcp.
so excited for this!! i’m never-mo but care a lot about high demand religions/cults and how they influence individuals/politics/society/etc, and jordan and mckay are the ones who brought me into the mormon side of that, and i’m so in awe of the exmo community and how kind and amazing jordan and mckay are in that!! thank you for having them!!
Yep, I’m Seventh-Day Adventist and our denomination tends to be high demand as well. We’re frequently associated with the LDS so I’m over here trying to educate myself, plus I just love Jordan and McKay!
I feel the exact same!! I’m atheist and find the whole fundamental religion thing fascinating. I had no idea how much gross and disturbing stuff went on within the mormon community til I came across Jordan and McKay. I love everything they stand for on their channel!
okay but the thumbnail is the FUNNIEST THING. I have only ever seen them sitting down. I had NO IDEA McKay was SO much taller than Jordan 😂 never seen them standing up lol
@2:31:00- my brother said a very similar thing about the really poor people in Bolivia (where he served) & tithing. He saw the Utah church leaders come down there in limos telling these destitute people to pay tithes & they didn’t even have food. It’s evil!
That alone would make me want to leave it all behind. It's evil, greedy, and ego feeding. Never satisfied with their power, wealth, and control. The whole lot of them- all religions.
I became a convert in 2013. I'm 40 years old now, I've always been Christian. I only really learned about the Mormon do's and don'ts long after I was baptized and endowed and other steps . I always feel awkward in the temple. It feels like a cult to me know. I've been questioning about my choice for a few months. My only reason to stay is because I get help with many things I can't do. I can't drive because I have epilepsy. I recently started watching their UA-cam channel. And it helps with questioning thing. I found out details from them. I don't want to go to my bishop or anyone at my church. In some ways it might make me living a double life. I don't do their cultish things. I'm glad I'm also watching your channel. Thank you for doing these interviews.
i have epilepsy too and there are other resources out there besides LDS if you live in the USA. There is disabled transit it's usually attached to public transit to sign up. Then there is lyft or uber it does cost money but if you are already giving 10% to them you can instead use that to pay to get around. Then there is public transit and depending where you live that can be or not be a possibliity. Anything is better than being in a cult like organization that takes your autonomy and self expression away.
I know this is an older comment but I'm still going to leave my 2 cents. I say use their resources for as long as you need, seriously. Maybe stay out of the temple stuff or anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, at least that will limit your exposure to the REALLY culty stuff. But if you have needs that they are willing to help you with, I say more power to you. I'd rather see their money and resources go to someone like yourself than to any of the other questionable things they put their money towards. Nothing but best wishes for you ❤
I was 50 and recently divorced when I started attending the LDS CHURCH...I experienced so much love and help when I couldn't feed my 4 children...the church even helped me find the good job I worked at for 23 yrs and retired with a comfortable retirement check....however the longer I attended the more I figured out that my devotion to the church wasn't going to ever put me on the same levels as cradle Mormons...I have friends who are church members but I don't attend the church since 2000...funny thing is 3-13-24 the local missionaries left their card on my front door asking how I was...
What an absolutely beautiful conversation - the hosts aren't judgemental, and contribute to the conversation without interrupting or condescending to the guests - and hearing McKay and Jordan being heard and and accepted was fantastic to see.
So pleased for this one. These two are so intelligent, insightful and wise beyond their years. (I’m a 54-year-old British woman, with no connection to Mormonism, but spent a few months living and working in Utah, thus the interest.)
My parents gave me the same ultimatum- go to BYU-I and they’d pay… or go somewhere else and pay for it myself. I went somewhere else and paid for it myself ☺️ and removed my name from the church records 👏
BYU seems like hell but you will get a good degree at a fraction of the cost and a good chance to find a good spouse. As a parent of 4 I hope my kids can get in…
@@kp4588hmmm I hear you but, your children deserve to thrive in healthy and happy environments. If they are wholesome people, no matter where they are, they’ll attractive good, honest people too.
@@kp4588 to bad your SOOOO brainwashed into this as if true you want your kids you have also brainwashed into that you want them to go find another brainwashed so called good mormon spouse with your so called good spouse in your kid. And of course you being a good parent(s) mormon obedience as your god guidance.
I think the conversational aspect of the interview is why these stories are so amazing. I am a subscriber of these guys and I know how comfortable they are Infront of a camera. But it was obvious when McKay started his story he was feeling nervous in contrast to his comfortable self on his own channel. You can hear the change in comfort as you converse and I think the talking is an important step to that. I can only imagine how much harder it might be for those that aren't used to being Infront of a camera. I love how long these interviews go!
As a never Mormon, I appreciate the "deep dives". I always wondered about the mechanics of the baptism for the dead. Hearing it first hand is enlightening. Thank you Mormon Stories !!
I’ve just discovered this channel and McKay and Jordan’s. I have to thank you for creating this important content. I was raised in the church. My mother was raised in the church. My father was not a member and they had a traditional civil wedding ceremony. After having my older 2 siblings my father was converted. I am 3rd born and my parents had us sealed in the temple when I was a baby. My growing up Mormon home sounds like McKay’s. My older 2 siblings only went to Sunday church while living at home because it was required. Myself was the first to attend and graduate seminary. My younger 2 siblings were like me growing up and only knowing the Mormon church. Only 1 sibling got married in the temple and is an active member still. I appreciate to secrecy being broken. I haven’t realized the amount of trauma, especially teen years, that I have not acknowledged. Listening to different stories here I find a piece of myself in a lot. Kelly’s story where she talks about the shame and feeling dirty due to the church is one of the biggest issues I felt while growing up. Thank you for sharing.
I loved the amount of detail in this! As a non-mormon who was raised in Arizona and had a Mormon best friend throughout middle school and high school, I am so intrigued by this podcast each week! Over the course of our friendship, I think I went to one event at the church. I had no idea all that went into the Mormon religion. Looking back, I think my friend's family was definitely on the "wild side" when it came to certain things. My friend drank coke, watched R movies and listened to the same music as me. She was not very modest when dressing either. I feel like this is why I had no idea what the Mormon culture was really like. This podcast is very non-mormon friendly and I really really appreciate it since this is really my first peak into the Mormon world.
I have to say in regards to McKay wanting to grow his hair out- both of my brothers grew their hair out as soon as they could, and both of them kept it long for almost 20 years. The small things you can control are everything when you have no control over your life.
This can be so true. Most ExMos do not, on the whole, go out and immediately go against the Word of Wisdom, but I've seen the opposite, they mostly break simple non-Mormon things, i.e., questions, letting your hair grow out, doing things on Sundays other than religion based things. They don't, again on the whole, immediately turn into Alcoholics, Drug addicts, R-rated movies, hard Sexual actions, but they do not. Thank you for bringing up this topic.
When I was a kid, I had hair long enough to sit on. Wasn't allowed to cut it for religious reasons. So, after I deconstructed and went away to grad school, I chopped it off and dyed it maroon. I also got 3 piercings in each ear and one in my nose. Now, I'm 45 and have hair halfway down to my bum again, but it's 100% my choice. I'm slowly morphing into the friendly neighborhood metalhead garden witch 😉. Yes, as simple as it seems, being able to wear the clothes, hairstyle, jewelry, and body art you want to is a big part of gaining your independence and developing your own identity. I definitely understand McKay's hair (and it looks great!).
You know, for McKay and this being his first time his hair ever being this long… McKay!!! I can’t imagine you looking any different or with any other hair cut. I feel like this suits you so well! You’re just one of the cool rocker dads that listen to heavy metal.
I love Jordan and McKay. I have never been Mormon, and am too old to relate to Gen Z, but I am thrilled you are taking your time talking with them. I have been fascinated with the religion, the culture and the history, despite not having stumbled upon its existence until I was an adult. Thank you.
You should interview Sam and Melissa from the UA-cam channel „Growing up in Polygamy“. Sam left the FLDS at 18 joined the Mormon church met Melissa, who was born and raised in the LDS and after some time they left the LDS church. I think they perspective is so interesting 🤓. But they never really talked about why they left the LDS on their Channel.
Seconding this, Sam and Melissa are lovely. His sister Tephi occasionally does videos with them as well, and has some wonderful insight into the community and deconstructing.
@@patriciahisoire5753 Im no expert by any means but I would *think* the Mormons would accept them if they renounce polygamy or maybe they hid their "involvement". I know I was told when I was converting that adults who are active polygamists are not "welcome". I don't personally see why their children would be punished and not allowed to have "salvation" though.
I am so upset to have to wait until tomorrow to hear Jordan's story and then another day to hear their deconstruction (as if I don't already know it) but at the same time I am so happy to get so many hours of Jordan and McKay. This is up there tied for my love for Marc as one of my absolute favorite Mormon Stories ever. And McKay is my age and grew up where I'm from. I wonder if we ever crossed paths?
IM *SO* EXCITED FOR THIS INTERVIEW! I am an atheist from the very start and a current member of The Satanic Temple but grew up pretty much exclusively around Mormons; this podcast, Jordan&McKay’s channel, and Jimmy Snow have all helped me understand the world I grew up in and why all my friends and their families were the way they were. 🖤 so much love to you all
Mind if I ask if you grew up in Utah? I grew up in Utah County and had such an awful experience being a Non-Member surrounded by a bunch of members due to the judgement and other things. I can even say some LDS parents bullied me and were cruel to me bc in their minds I was "immoral" simply for not being a member (nor a Christian). It was probably less than a month ago that I commented on both Mormon Stories Podcast and Jordan&McKay's channels that I hoped they would collaborate. To think I didn't even have to prey for it and it actually happened! 😲😏 I didn't think this would happen so quickly from the time I mentioned it, but I'm really glad it did! (Also not taking credit for this coming to fruition, just acknowledging something I hoped for actually came about so quickly). Win-win for both channels. 😁
I'm not entirely done with this episode but I need to say before I forget: I am SO HAPPY to know that McKay's "gateway band" was Fall Out Boy because honestly? Same 😂 I like these guys even more, I can't wait for the next episodes
I was not raised with any religion, so I love to watch your channel, Jordan&McKays, and fundie Friday’s because you guys all go into detail about what it’s like! I’ve been learning so much about Mormonism and other religious groups. So keep up with the longer more detailed videos!
This interview was very well done, I learned alot and love the format, I know these two from falling down the MLM rabbit hole and here we are. I cannot wait to watch the rest !
2:32...McKay is so wise. Most people do not get to see up close and personal what he has and this coupled with his ability to compare and contrast and see the big picture is so amazing. Most people just seriously have no idea. I KNEW there was something about this couple that required one to stop and take notice. They give me hope in the future of humanity.
oooooooohhhhhwee John’s commentary and deep dives were so good in this one! loved the note about these being a part of oral history 🥲 cannot wait for Jordan’s story next!!! 🌼
The discussion of hair sent me. I am a neverMo but in high school my electronics teacher was advanced into some Mormon leadership thing and he had to shave his beard, which he had at all times. It was shocking to the students because that beard suited him so well. It hurts my heart to think about that strong Navy veteran with amazing stories, powerful singing voice, and knowledge of everything technical have his self expression taken away by mormonism. It's a bittersweet memory that when this happened and he answered students questions about it, one of the Baptist kids couldn't hold in: "Jesus had a beard, why can't you?" He used to joke that after college I would come back with long hair, piercings, and an "F the Establishment" T-Shirt. Maybe he had the gift of prophecy after all! 😉
My very active Mormon dad was told to cut his hair while being a seminary teacher. He is retired military and really enjoyed having his hair a bit long after retirement. He was finally able to express himself and then the church steps in telling him how to look. Made me furious and him as well. I recall he did stand up for himself and refused to cut his hair.
The whole conversation about Mormon appearance hits hard. I remember dressing for church as just dressing for church. Being raised in the church it was normal. When I saw another church releasing and the members were in casual clothes and jeans!!!!! Jeans to church?!! I was shocked. My adult self thinks exactly what McKay and Jordan said is that we should be happy they are going to church and not concerned with clothing.
I've only listened to a few minutes but I'd just like to point out that Jordan and McKay aren't exactly "influencers." Their content is never intended to show off their lifestyle or market themselves as a brand. They discuss influencers...Mormon family bloggers, purity culture talking heads, etc....but they're not really "influencers" themselves in the way we usually think of that label. Okay. Just needed to say that while it was fresh in my mind. Off to listen to the rest of the show now...
I just have to say I love how Jordan is not only allowing McKay to use this moment to tell his story, but it also seems that she’s super happy that he’s getting this moment in the spotlight to tell his story. Love love love them!!
John talking about "Mormon Robots" around 40:55 - I've explained this to people countless times. Even if it's not in their appearance, there's a certain way 'they' talk that is very robotic, and at times creepy. It's difficult to describe completely, but from an outsider who is very familiar with the members- when you know it, you know it. I feel like I'm being fed information that they've been fed most (if not all) of their lives and the minute you ask a question they don't know how to answer/ hasn't been fed to them it's like everything short-circuits and the "conversation" comes to an abrupt end. That's my experience in talking to devout members anyway....
@@lisab6547 That's what I thought. I told my friend after hearing it I thought it was only me. It's kinda validating to hear. I think of it as being in a trance or something. It's just.... odd. Glad John mentioned even the Kadance.
As someone who was not raised religious in any sense, but who lived in southern Idaho (on the Utah border) for a time & saw the impact Mormonism had on the community as an outsider looking in, I find the testimonies of those who left the LDS church so intriguing! From the perspective of what your life was inside versus what your life becomes once you're out. It's just such a tremendous change in every sense of the word. Your environment, your thoughts, your behaviors, your habits, your core beliefs, the people you surround yourself with, the media you consume, all of it changes! What bravery someone must possess! So to anyone who left the church to live in their truth without shame, I am so proud of you. You are worthy & loved! P.S. found your channel thru Jordan & McKay's & am glad to have found you!
Thank you Jordan and McKay and Mormon stories, you have all educated a non mormon in the beliefs of your former church. I was brought non religious and always found it strange when a religion has “secrets”, the guilt in some religions are overwhelming, my husband is an ex catholic, who had tremendous guilt for marring a non religious person.
I’ve only managed to finish part one so far. I listen to the audio version, but came here to comment to boost engagement and share my thoughts. McKay! Thanks for your courage on sharing your story. It’s crazy that I’ve been watching and following for so long and you begin to feel you know someone, but it’s different to hear about their past and where they come from. I can relate to a lot of what you shared just about growing up Mormon and those little struggles and indoctrinations. All I know, is you definitely turned out alright! Haha. You’ve got your music, your hair, your Jordan, your kid, your dog and your cat - that’s what matters :) Keep doing what you do!
I loved this! I’m a subscriber of Jordan and McKay and it was cool to hear their story in detail. I’m a never-mo so I appreciate the pauses for breakdowns of Mormon terminology/ events ect.
Also a never-Mo, but I'm familiar with a lot of the terminology (and there's a lot!). It's always nice to get a refresher or a breakdown of something I'm not aware of. 😊
I’m so grateful for this, I am looking forward to the next two parts. I’ve never been Mormon but I grew up with many friends who were in the church. My heart breaks for them now, knowing the pressure they were under when I knew them that I had no idea about at the time.
Never been so exited about an interview. I thought I would have to wait years for this. Jordan and McKay absolutely best encompass the voice of the Gen-Z through millennial Ex-mo community, and it is very important their story is heard because every shelf-broken generation can relate.
Never watched Mormon Stories channel before but came to hear Jordan & McKay’s story but am a subscriber now & have watched many MANY episodes & I love this channel but yeah I came for J&M, stayed because it’s great real stories. 🤗🤗
I totally feel what McKay is saying about how not being able to grow his hair out felt like clipping his wings! I grew up in a pretty fundamentalist Christian group (the 2x2s) and there were so many spoken and unspoken rules about how women could look, what we could wear, what we couldnt do with our hair/makeup ect. All enforced by shaming and guilt. It totally robs you of some of the most fun methods of self expression! Even now I feel guilt over basic things like getting my ears pierced and cutting my hair. It might just be "outward" and materialistic things but telling people how they can look (or can't) is a means of controlling them in my opinion and when you voice your problem with it your complaints are deemed as superficial and unimportant.
We lived in Salt Lake City and our ExMo friends were baptized in our non-Mo church. I ordered a cake for the party, asking for them to decorate it with a cross. They put a Red Cross type cross on it, not a Jesus cross. 😂😂😂 Classic Mormonland incident.
that was great! i really loved how we got to know something so personal (McKay's experience) and how John put it into context of the mormon experience. Gave me some good insights next time a missionary comes by my door :D
Was so excited when I saw you were having Jordan and McKay on. I love their You Tube channel. I think I found MSP and J & M at the same time. Best thing about Covid-19.
Thank you for explaining what you do! Never heard of baptism for the dead amongst learning other things here. Y’all do wonderful, fantastic work and as a never Mormon, I thank you greatly. 🙏
I just love the authenticity of Jordan and McKay I am a NeverMo. BUT…. My maiden name is Kirtland and I’ve been trying to figure out the relation for years. Most Kirtland’s landed in Lynn, MA. Several went to NY and several went to CT. My dads family is from NY. Plus I have a masters in social work and a masters in Divinity (Episcopalian) and will be an Episcopal priest. Interested in sociology of religion in general! Love this new world of Mormon stories and love J&M!
I will probably comment more because I'm only an hour into the podcast, but I just have to touch on these two things before I forget. I'm an ex-LCMS Lutheran, but had strangely militant parents (namely my mom) for the denomination I grew up in, it was very high-demand in our household. I was born in '94 so I am right before the cut-off for Gen Z, but I relate so much to what McKay was saying about music. I was really, really into screamo, punk, hard rock, etc. at that age, too, and eventually came to love black metal after I left Christianity as a young adult. But what struck me was him talking about hiding his iPod and iTunes so much from his family. I had to do the same thing. I hid my CDs in my closet in a box that I slid between some wooden slats. I had to be so covert. What's funny is my parents viewed all that music as so satanic and the epitome of temptation, yet when I was a teenager, I was so insanely devout to the faith. I didn't care what the message of the music I was listening to was about, nothing about the music I listened to ever shook my faith. I also wanted to touch on what you guys are saying about how certain things were fine for Jesus, but we we are not allowed to do the same by our high-demand doctrines. I met a couple of openly gay kids in high school and was strictly forbidden from hanging out with them after my parents found out they were gay. Same with any atheist kids I met. I remember arguing with my mom, "But Jesus hung out with debt collectors, prostitutes, and other sinners that were cast out from society. Why am I not allowed to do the same?" My mom insisted that Jesus was different, and he was spreading his love and word. I shot back, "But Jesus calls us to walk in the same way in which he walked." I was grounded by my mom for...being right, lol. I knew it and she knew it was wrong and antithetical to everything Jesus preached to deny that I should be hanging out with "sinners." (For the record, as an atheist and bisexual myself, I do not view atheists and LGBTQ+ people as sinners or anything but perfectly normal humans.) Just wanted to share my similar experience from a different denomination.
Hey I grew up LCMS as well! I didn't have militant parents, but I definitely felt a lot of shame growing up in an LCMS church. Mormon Stories in general has also helped me a lot in terms of my deconstruction process. I find that I actually relate to a lot of what they have to say.
I think your comment is interesting in that you grew up Lutheran and are into Black Metal. I’m curious if you’re Scandinavian? I find Black metal and Scandi culture interesting with how successful and happy they are yet their arts are so dark. I’m very Scandinavian myself and I always think the Mormon church fits well with the happy face and inward torment. Heavy metal doesn’t touch black metal in my opinion
I grew up LCMS, non-militant household, and am still LCMS. So sad to hear about that shame-inducing rigidity of some parents. I always heard that we are sinful, and saved thru grace, that our faith makes us want to be better, but we are always in need of forgiveness, which is feely given. I was aware of the existence of fundamentalism and knew that it was wrong, but only now do I understand why. It’s hard to accept that it is perpetuated by families even within mainstream religions.
@@DrofJustice I’d like to point out that the whole “you’re sinful and need to be saved” though mainstream, isn’t exactly healthy, either. Especially the conflating of all “sins” as being equal.
@@ThunderStruck15 But Jesus already died for all our sins , thus saving us, that’s the Gospel message. We can communicate directly to God because we inherently know our errors, and don’t need anyone interceding on our behalf. It isn’t necessarily religion that makes us feel guilt, it is our conscience. My faith is one that comforts me because my sins are forgiven and I will be okay, starting each day without burdens. This helps me be grateful, kind, and forgiving to others.
Even though I knew the answers to some of the “deep dive” questions John asked, it wanted to hear Jordan & McKay’s answers, descriptions & feelings. And Carah’s too. Edit: I’ve watched many of J & M UA-cam videos & (still) really enjoyed this more in-depth story.
Firstly, I am a NeverMo and am an Episcopalian raised in Louisiana but lived in Massachusetts since 2008. I am a sociologist of religion as a hobby but an a social worker and in process to be an Episcopal priest. Secondly, I love Jordan and McKay and have been and will continue to be supporters of their content creation. Lastly, I really enjoy the way in which you approach your podcast and think its extremely valuable and will recommend!!!
I've never been Mormon but I do watch quite a few ex mo content creators and I love Jordan and McKay! So glad to see such long interviews with them. Can't wait to hear Jordan's story tomorrow!
My grandparents who were never Mormon…. My grandmother’s sister was dating my granddad, he went off to WWI and while he was stationed in Germany she married someone else. He was sent a “Dear John” letter. My grandmother felt so sorry for him that she started writing him and fell in love. They were married the week he came back to the states. ❤️
I had a similar hair journey the past three years. I always wanted to grow my hair out to just experience life with long hair. The pandemic turned out to be super convenient to not get hair cuts, but I was already committed from 2019. In 2.5 years I had it down past my shoulders. As much as I liked how I looked and the complements I got, I just couldn't deal with the shedding, maintenance, shampooing, and sleeping. BUT! I never would've known any of that if I hadn't tried, and I never would have tried if I didn't have the distance I have from mormonism.
1:00:29 “That’s how I protect myself.” Interesting that one would feel they had to protect themselves from their religion and it’s practices. I appreciate all of you and thank you for being willing to have these conversations. ❤️❤️
Thanks for this!! I’m coming over from Jordan & McKay’s channel & Im fascinated by these stories! I’m ex IFB and a lot of the culture is so similar, though the doctrines & details differ. I think this is why I can relate. I was Mormon adjacent for several years when I dated my kids dad & we attended the church regularly but I had no idea how deep it went! This is so informative!
Yay! I've been listening to both of your channels for a while now and I so appreciate all of your content! Thank you all for your videos and for sharing your stories! Sending you all my love and encouragement 💞
Here from Jordan and McKays channel so excited for these episodes!! Also for some general knowledge, a lot of Orthodox/practicing Jews will stand when Rabbis walk in the room or when an elder walks in the room i.e. grandparents or parents as a sign of respect.
I’ve been waiting and waiting for you guys to finallyyyy interview Jordan and McKay! I’ve been watching their channel since the very beginning. Yayyyy!
I lived less than a block from the Mormon church in our town, "the" Mormon family most well known in my crowd lived down the street, and I never understood any of it. Thank you for the time spent explaining it all.
9 years ago I was experiencing a bit of a crisis as a teen and was approached by Mormon missionaries, for a while I really considered joining as they seemed so nice and like they really cared. I really wanted to join, but was too scared I will be judged (I live in a very secular country). Currently am obsessed with watching ex-mo content and I’m so glad I chickened out back then, knowing how the church is now it would probably have made the situation a lot worse. Jordan and McKay are awesome!
I’m so excited y’all have them as guests! And I love all the information and topics, I’ll happily be listening to all 9+ hours at least once, if not multiple times!
didn’t grow up mormon but grew up going to a fundamentalist christian school, with fundamentalist christian, missionary, and jehovah’s witness extended family. completely related to the statement of feeling jaded or weird that everyone around me was having deeply spiritual experiences, speaking in tongues, getting called to preach, etc. meanwhile i just felt weird, uncomfortable and nothing. i felt like god was talking to everyone but me, which made me feel even more isolated while other trauma was happening. i’m agnostic-atheist now.
I knew very little about Mormonism although my husband had a colleague who was a Mormon bishop. Learned so much from ExMo Lex, Jimmy Snow, and. my faves Jordan and McKay
Ugh, I have to wait until tomorrow for Part 2??? I adore Jordan and McKay. They seem to have such an endearing respect and love for each other in the videos on their channel.
I've been binging Jordana and McKay videos and this is so fascinating and well done. Also, as for standing when someone enters a room, I'm an attorney and you stand whenever a judge enters the room. Even if you're just in chambers and there's no clerk saying "all rise." And a lot of judges (not all) seem to be embarrassed when this happens and immediately go, "sit, sit, no reason to stand for me." So yeah, it's weird to stand when religious leaders enter the room.
I’m 69 yrs old. I believed in Mormonism until 3 years ago. Since I discovered that I preferred boys at 12 I have thought I was going to burn in Hell forever. In 2018 I found the real history of joe smith and the lies of the Mormon church. Now I’m an atheist and really happy with life.
Congratulations on your faith transition ♥️♥️ I hope you know how loved and welcome you are in the world
That's great! I'm glad you're finally able to live life as your authentic self. Better late than never!
I’m so happy for you 🖤
let's go timothy!! makes me so happy to hear king❤️
From one 69 year old to another...Congratulations! I am so glad you are happy now and many more years to share your joy. I left the church 12 years ago and wish so much it had been sooner.
I was raised loosely in reform Judaism. I have no idea why I'm so obsessed with Ex mormon content, but I am. And THESE GUYS ARE MY FAVES ❤ I love them, I've been so excited for this 🥺
Omg same! Yay! Im not alone. 😅😂
I was raised culturally Jewish and became a Catholic at 40. I"m fascinated by religion and love exMormons and these two. I always wanted to learn about religions, and the fact the the Mormon temple and teachings were kept secret always made me wary. These exMormons are so lovely and so brave to share this material with us.
I think the secretive nature of the LDS church makes you want to learn more.
I'm in this comment and I feel called out! Haha
Same. I’m thinking because Judaism isn’t so weird about questioning your faith, maybe that has something to do with the intrigue?
There are asexual people. Just want to ensure they are included in the conversation, not every human is driven by sex and that is okay. I see you, I recognize you, I accept you.
100%! I was just coming to say the same thing having got to the ‘everyone’s biologically wired to partner up and have sex’ bit. Nope. Not the case. Love that Jordan & McKay frequently acknowledge asexual and aromantic-spectrum people and how the whole setup of the Mormon church is so incompatible with Ace-ness.
Thank you..
Thank you. As a person who is coming to understand that I'm somewhere between asexual and demisexual that I don't have something wrong with me
@@KaiserSoze-us9jiI think if you actually did the research, you would probably find that there are ace dogs or dogs that just aren’t interested in copulating. In fact, roughly 3% of sheep are asexual.
I know this comment is 2 years old, but I also just wanted to say thank you for saying this. I don't often see people online mention it in such a supportive manner. As an aroace, I appreciate you.
The fact that they have said they're not "cool enough" to be on this podcast makes me so unbelievably proud to see them on here. This is by far the most excited I've been for an episode
News flash! Conservative Evangelicalism puts the same requirements on their kids and teens, conformity of dress and personal appearance, restrictions on language, music, movies, entertainment, association with
non-believers, sexual information and purity.
The only difference is we don't have to get certified by the bishop.
I remember that too and I'm like with tens of thousands of subs it's going to happen. ❤️ they were basically my gateway into listening to ex Mormons talk about things when I hear them on dcp.
John you are a great interviewer, and you should not apologize for the questions, it is what makes these so interesting.
This is Maven, and I appreciate you saying this! I found it helpful for my own interview.
I agree! I’m a convert and served a mission and I still appreciate the questions and explaining! 🩷
so excited for this!! i’m never-mo but care a lot about high demand religions/cults and how they influence individuals/politics/society/etc, and jordan and mckay are the ones who brought me into the mormon side of that, and i’m so in awe of the exmo community and how kind and amazing jordan and mckay are in that!! thank you for having them!!
It’s absolutely all of that 🙄
Sociology psychology group mentality 🪄 culture cult wow 😯
Yep, I’m Seventh-Day Adventist and our denomination tends to be high demand as well. We’re frequently associated with the LDS so I’m over here trying to educate myself, plus I just love Jordan and McKay!
I feel the exact same!! I’m atheist and find the whole fundamental religion thing fascinating. I had no idea how much gross and disturbing stuff went on within the mormon community til I came across Jordan and McKay. I love everything they stand for on their channel!
@@kittybear9693 yo-yo ggtttgttttyt
okay but the thumbnail is the FUNNIEST THING.
I have only ever seen them sitting down. I had NO IDEA McKay was SO much taller than Jordan 😂
never seen them standing up lol
RIGHT, it was jarring haha, but so cute!
I had no idea either, i thought he was 5'5". He tall!
You should have seen their little wedding snippet!!
Looks kinda like me standing by my husband. He’s 6’7” and I’m 5’5”. Lol
Me neither!
@2:31:00- my brother said a very similar thing about the really poor people in Bolivia (where he served) & tithing. He saw the Utah church leaders come down there in limos telling these destitute people to pay tithes & they didn’t even have food. It’s evil!
Evil is the perfect word 👍 to the Mormons those people aren't "worthy" to get to the top part of heaven.
That alone would make me want to leave it all behind. It's evil, greedy, and ego feeding. Never satisfied with their power, wealth, and control. The whole lot of them- all religions.
I became a convert in 2013. I'm 40 years old now, I've always been Christian. I only really learned about the Mormon do's and don'ts long after I was baptized and endowed and other steps . I always feel awkward in the temple. It feels like a cult to me know. I've been questioning about my choice for a few months. My only reason to stay is because I get help with many things I can't do. I can't drive because I have epilepsy. I recently started watching their UA-cam channel. And it helps with questioning thing. I found out details from them. I don't want to go to my bishop or anyone at my church. In some ways it might make me living a double life. I don't do their cultish things. I'm glad I'm also watching your channel. Thank you for doing these interviews.
i have epilepsy too and there are other resources out there besides LDS if you live in the USA. There is disabled transit it's usually attached to public transit to sign up. Then there is lyft or uber it does cost money but if you are already giving 10% to them you can instead use that to pay to get around. Then there is public transit and depending where you live that can be or not be a possibliity. Anything is better than being in a cult like organization that takes your autonomy and self expression away.
all the best on your journey
I know this is an older comment but I'm still going to leave my 2 cents. I say use their resources for as long as you need, seriously. Maybe stay out of the temple stuff or anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, at least that will limit your exposure to the REALLY culty stuff. But if you have needs that they are willing to help you with, I say more power to you. I'd rather see their money and resources go to someone like yourself than to any of the other questionable things they put their money towards. Nothing but best wishes for you ❤
I was 50 and recently divorced when I started attending the LDS CHURCH...I experienced so much love and help when I couldn't feed my 4 children...the church even helped me find the good job I worked at for 23 yrs and retired with a comfortable retirement check....however the longer I attended the more I figured out that my devotion to the church wasn't going to ever put me on the same levels as cradle Mormons...I have friends who are church members but I don't attend the church since 2000...funny thing is 3-13-24 the local missionaries left their card on my front door asking how I was...
What an absolutely beautiful conversation - the hosts aren't judgemental, and contribute to the conversation without interrupting or condescending to the guests - and hearing McKay and Jordan being heard and and accepted was fantastic to see.
So pleased for this one. These two are so intelligent, insightful and wise beyond their years. (I’m a 54-year-old British woman, with no connection to Mormonism, but spent a few months living and working in Utah, thus the interest.)
I'm an American with barely any Mormoms for miles near me but I'm still interested lol good ol UA-cam
My parents gave me the same ultimatum- go to BYU-I and they’d pay… or go somewhere else and pay for it myself. I went somewhere else and paid for it myself ☺️ and removed my name from the church records 👏
BYU seems like hell but you will get a good degree at a fraction of the cost and a good chance to find a good spouse. As a parent of 4 I hope my kids can get in…
Wow, amazing independent thinking
@@kp4588hmmm I hear you but, your children deserve to thrive in healthy and happy environments. If they are wholesome people, no matter where they are, they’ll attractive good, honest people too.
@@kp4588 to bad your SOOOO brainwashed into this as if true you want your kids you have also brainwashed into that you want them to go find another brainwashed so called good mormon spouse with your so called good spouse in your kid. And of course you being a good parent(s) mormon obedience as your god guidance.
Good job honey!
I think the conversational aspect of the interview is why these stories are so amazing. I am a subscriber of these guys and I know how comfortable they are Infront of a camera. But it was obvious when McKay started his story he was feeling nervous in contrast to his comfortable self on his own channel. You can hear the change in comfort as you converse and I think the talking is an important step to that. I can only imagine how much harder it might be for those that aren't used to being Infront of a camera. I love how long these interviews go!
Me too! It gives me something to listen to for like half my work day almost 😂
@@doperagu8471 SAME
@@doperagu8471 lol me too! I’m in my office and this is making my day go by fast 😬
As a never Mormon, I appreciate the "deep dives". I always wondered about the mechanics of the baptism for the dead. Hearing it first hand is enlightening. Thank you Mormon Stories !!
I’ve just discovered this channel and McKay and Jordan’s. I have to thank you for creating this important content. I was raised in the church. My mother was raised in the church. My father was not a member and they had a traditional civil wedding ceremony. After having my older 2 siblings my father was converted. I am 3rd born and my parents had us sealed in the temple when I was a baby. My growing up Mormon home sounds like McKay’s. My older 2 siblings only went to Sunday church while living at home because it was required. Myself was the first to attend and graduate seminary. My younger 2 siblings were like me growing up and only knowing the Mormon church. Only 1 sibling got married in the temple and is an active member still.
I appreciate to secrecy being broken. I haven’t realized the amount of trauma, especially teen years, that I have not acknowledged. Listening to different stories here I find a piece of myself in a lot. Kelly’s story where she talks about the shame and feeling dirty due to the church is one of the biggest issues I felt while growing up. Thank you for sharing.
I loved the amount of detail in this! As a non-mormon who was raised in Arizona and had a Mormon best friend throughout middle school and high school, I am so intrigued by this podcast each week! Over the course of our friendship, I think I went to one event at the church. I had no idea all that went into the Mormon religion. Looking back, I think my friend's family was definitely on the "wild side" when it came to certain things. My friend drank coke, watched R movies and listened to the same music as me. She was not very modest when dressing either. I feel like this is why I had no idea what the Mormon culture was really like. This podcast is very non-mormon friendly and I really really appreciate it since this is really my first peak into the Mormon world.
I have to say in regards to McKay wanting to grow his hair out- both of my brothers grew their hair out as soon as they could, and both of them kept it long for almost 20 years. The small things you can control are everything when you have no control over your life.
This can be so true. Most ExMos do not, on the whole, go out and immediately go against the Word of Wisdom, but I've seen the opposite, they mostly break simple non-Mormon things, i.e., questions, letting your hair grow out, doing things on Sundays other than religion based things. They don't, again on the whole, immediately turn into Alcoholics, Drug addicts, R-rated movies, hard Sexual actions, but they do not. Thank you for bringing up this topic.
When I was a kid, I had hair long enough to sit on. Wasn't allowed to cut it for religious reasons. So, after I deconstructed and went away to grad school, I chopped it off and dyed it maroon. I also got 3 piercings in each ear and one in my nose. Now, I'm 45 and have hair halfway down to my bum again, but it's 100% my choice. I'm slowly morphing into the friendly neighborhood metalhead garden witch 😉. Yes, as simple as it seems, being able to wear the clothes, hairstyle, jewelry, and body art you want to is a big part of gaining your independence and developing your own identity.
I definitely understand McKay's hair (and it looks great!).
Jordan and McKay are the ones who introduced me to Mormon Stories! LOVE THEM!!
You know, for McKay and this being his first time his hair ever being this long… McKay!!! I can’t imagine you looking any different or with any other hair cut. I feel like this suits you so well! You’re just one of the cool rocker dads that listen to heavy metal.
Yes! He definitely has cool rocker dad energy, not that he wouldn't look good however he chooses but this suits him so well.
I love Jordan and McKay. I have never been Mormon, and am too old to relate to Gen Z, but I am thrilled you are taking your time talking with them. I have been fascinated with the religion, the culture and the history, despite not having stumbled upon its existence until I was an adult. Thank you.
You should interview Sam and Melissa from the UA-cam channel „Growing up in Polygamy“. Sam left the FLDS at 18 joined the Mormon church met Melissa, who was born and raised in the LDS and after some time they left the LDS church. I think they perspective is so interesting 🤓. But they never really talked about why they left the LDS on their Channel.
Seconding this, Sam and Melissa are lovely. His sister Tephi occasionally does videos with them as well, and has some wonderful insight into the community and deconstructing.
Yes! 👏
Yes
I thought polygamist children were not welcomed in the Mormon church. I read this, am I mistaken?
@@patriciahisoire5753 Im no expert by any means but I would *think* the Mormons would accept them if they renounce polygamy or maybe they hid their "involvement". I know I was told when I was converting that adults who are active polygamists are not "welcome". I don't personally see why their children would be punished and not allowed to have "salvation" though.
I am so upset to have to wait until tomorrow to hear Jordan's story and then another day to hear their deconstruction (as if I don't already know it) but at the same time I am so happy to get so many hours of Jordan and McKay. This is up there tied for my love for Marc as one of my absolute favorite Mormon Stories ever. And McKay is my age and grew up where I'm from. I wonder if we ever crossed paths?
IM *SO* EXCITED FOR THIS INTERVIEW! I am an atheist from the very start and a current member of The Satanic Temple but grew up pretty much exclusively around Mormons; this podcast, Jordan&McKay’s channel, and Jimmy Snow have all helped me understand the world I grew up in and why all my friends and their families were the way they were. 🖤 so much love to you all
Mind if I ask if you grew up in Utah? I grew up in Utah County and had such an awful experience being a Non-Member surrounded by a bunch of members due to the judgement and other things. I can even say some LDS parents bullied me and were cruel to me bc in their minds I was "immoral" simply for not being a member (nor a Christian). It was probably less than a month ago that I commented on both Mormon Stories Podcast and Jordan&McKay's channels that I hoped they would collaborate. To think I didn't even have to prey for it and it actually happened! 😲😏 I didn't think this would happen so quickly from the time I mentioned it, but I'm really glad it did! (Also not taking credit for this coming to fruition, just acknowledging something I hoped for actually came about so quickly). Win-win for both channels. 😁
No, I grew up in a small town in Montana. Quite the Mormon population though; we even had an enclave of FLDS 15 mins away from my hometown
I'm not entirely done with this episode but I need to say before I forget: I am SO HAPPY to know that McKay's "gateway band" was Fall Out Boy because honestly? Same 😂 I like these guys even more, I can't wait for the next episodes
I was not raised with any religion, so I love to watch your channel, Jordan&McKays, and fundie Friday’s because you guys all go into detail about what it’s like! I’ve been learning so much about Mormonism and other religious groups. So keep up with the longer more detailed videos!
This interview was very well done, I learned alot and love the format, I know these two from falling down the MLM rabbit hole and here we are. I cannot wait to watch the rest !
2:32...McKay is so wise. Most people do not get to see up close and personal what he has and this coupled with his ability to compare and contrast and see the big picture is so amazing. Most people just seriously have no idea. I KNEW there was something about this couple that required one to stop and take notice. They give me hope in the future of humanity.
oooooooohhhhhwee John’s commentary and deep dives were so good in this one! loved the note about these being a part of oral history 🥲 cannot wait for Jordan’s story next!!! 🌼
The discussion of hair sent me. I am a neverMo but in high school my electronics teacher was advanced into some Mormon leadership thing and he had to shave his beard, which he had at all times. It was shocking to the students because that beard suited him so well.
It hurts my heart to think about that strong Navy veteran with amazing stories, powerful singing voice, and knowledge of everything technical have his self expression taken away by mormonism.
It's a bittersweet memory that when this happened and he answered students questions about it, one of the Baptist kids couldn't hold in: "Jesus had a beard, why can't you?"
He used to joke that after college I would come back with long hair, piercings, and an "F the Establishment" T-Shirt. Maybe he had the gift of prophecy after all! 😉
My very active Mormon dad was told to cut his hair while being a seminary teacher. He is retired military and really enjoyed having his hair a bit long after retirement. He was finally able to express himself and then the church steps in telling him how to look. Made me furious and him as well. I recall he did stand up for himself and refused to cut his hair.
The whole conversation about Mormon appearance hits hard. I remember dressing for church as just dressing for church. Being raised in the church it was normal. When I saw another church releasing and the members were in casual clothes and jeans!!!!! Jeans to church?!! I was shocked. My adult self thinks exactly what McKay and Jordan said is that we should be happy they are going to church and not concerned with clothing.
I decided not to be LDS because of your channel. I really appreciate your work.
I'm not Mormon, never been but I like to listen to the two of them, they explain everything so well
I've only listened to a few minutes but I'd just like to point out that Jordan and McKay aren't exactly "influencers." Their content is never intended to show off their lifestyle or market themselves as a brand. They discuss influencers...Mormon family bloggers, purity culture talking heads, etc....but they're not really "influencers" themselves in the way we usually think of that label. Okay. Just needed to say that while it was fresh in my mind. Off to listen to the rest of the show now...
So true! Not all content creators are influencers.
Never been Mormon, but it’s amazing how much of this mirrors my upbringing in a Pentecostal church
I just have to say I love how Jordan is not only allowing McKay to use this moment to tell his story, but it also seems that she’s super happy that he’s getting this moment in the spotlight to tell his story. Love love love them!!
John talking about "Mormon Robots" around 40:55 - I've explained this to people countless times. Even if it's not in their appearance, there's a certain way 'they' talk that is very robotic, and at times creepy. It's difficult to describe completely, but from an outsider who is very familiar with the members- when you know it, you know it. I feel like I'm being fed information that they've been fed most (if not all) of their lives and the minute you ask a question they don't know how to answer/ hasn't been fed to them it's like everything short-circuits and the "conversation" comes to an abrupt end. That's my experience in talking to devout members anyway....
I've always noticed the way they talk. I didn't know if anyone else noticed it too. 👍
@@lisab6547 That's what I thought. I told my friend after hearing it I thought it was only me. It's kinda validating to hear. I think of it as being in a trance or something. It's just.... odd. Glad John mentioned even the Kadance.
As someone who was not raised religious in any sense, but who lived in southern Idaho (on the Utah border) for a time & saw the impact Mormonism had on the community as an outsider looking in, I find the testimonies of those who left the LDS church so intriguing! From the perspective of what your life was inside versus what your life becomes once you're out. It's just such a tremendous change in every sense of the word. Your environment, your thoughts, your behaviors, your habits, your core beliefs, the people you surround yourself with, the media you consume, all of it changes! What bravery someone must possess! So to anyone who left the church to live in their truth without shame, I am so proud of you. You are worthy & loved!
P.S. found your channel thru Jordan & McKay's & am glad to have found you!
Thank you Jordan and McKay and Mormon stories, you have all educated a non mormon in the beliefs of your former church. I was brought non religious and always found it strange when a religion has “secrets”, the guilt in some religions are overwhelming, my husband is an ex catholic, who had tremendous guilt for marring a non religious person.
I’ve only managed to finish part one so far. I listen to the audio version, but came here to comment to boost engagement and share my thoughts.
McKay! Thanks for your courage on sharing your story. It’s crazy that I’ve been watching and following for so long and you begin to feel you know someone, but it’s different to hear about their past and where they come from.
I can relate to a lot of what you shared just about growing up Mormon and those little struggles and indoctrinations.
All I know, is you definitely turned out alright! Haha. You’ve got your music, your hair, your Jordan, your kid, your dog and your cat - that’s what matters :) Keep doing what you do!
We LOVE Jordan and McKay on UA-cam!! It’s great to see them on this channel
I loved this! I’m a subscriber of Jordan and McKay and it was cool to hear their story in detail. I’m a never-mo so I appreciate the pauses for breakdowns of Mormon terminology/ events ect.
Also a never-Mo, but I'm familiar with a lot of the terminology (and there's a lot!). It's always nice to get a refresher or a breakdown of something I'm not aware of. 😊
I’m so grateful for this, I am looking forward to the next two parts. I’ve never been Mormon but I grew up with many friends who were in the church. My heart breaks for them now, knowing the pressure they were under when I knew them that I had no idea about at the time.
I love Jordan and McKay and their UA-cam channel! So glad to see them on the podcast
Never been so exited about an interview. I thought I would have to wait years for this. Jordan and McKay absolutely best encompass the voice of the Gen-Z through millennial Ex-mo community, and it is very important their story is heard because every shelf-broken generation can relate.
I love Jordan and McKay! Thank you for the deep dives and having this amazing couple on Mormon Stories.
Never watched Mormon Stories channel before but came to hear Jordan & McKay’s story but am a subscriber now & have watched many MANY episodes & I love this channel but yeah I came for J&M, stayed because it’s great real stories. 🤗🤗
so excited! these two are doing such amazing, inspirational work!
"You grew up in freaking Provo!"
That gave me my laugh for the day. Thanks for that. Lol
I totally feel what McKay is saying about how not being able to grow his hair out felt like clipping his wings! I grew up in a pretty fundamentalist Christian group (the 2x2s) and there were so many spoken and unspoken rules about how women could look, what we could wear, what we couldnt do with our hair/makeup ect. All enforced by shaming and guilt. It totally robs you of some of the most fun methods of self expression! Even now I feel guilt over basic things like getting my ears pierced and cutting my hair. It might just be "outward" and materialistic things but telling people how they can look (or can't) is a means of controlling them in my opinion and when you voice your problem with it your complaints are deemed as superficial and unimportant.
1:37:35 Bookmark
Love Jordan and McKay!! Can't wait to listen to all 3 parts!
We lived in Salt Lake City and our ExMo friends were baptized in our non-Mo church. I ordered a cake for the party, asking for them to decorate it with a cross. They put a Red Cross type cross on it, not a Jesus cross. 😂😂😂 Classic Mormonland incident.
😂😂😂
that was great! i really loved how we got to know something so personal (McKay's experience) and how John put it into context of the mormon experience. Gave me some good insights next time a missionary comes by my door :D
As a viewer of both of your channels I’m glad that Jordan and McKay are on at this time
Was so excited when I saw you were having Jordan and McKay on. I love their You Tube channel. I think I found MSP and J & M at the same time. Best thing about Covid-19.
Thank you for explaining what you do! Never heard of baptism for the dead amongst learning other things here. Y’all do wonderful, fantastic work and as a never Mormon, I thank you greatly. 🙏
I just love the authenticity of Jordan and McKay I am a NeverMo. BUT…. My maiden name is Kirtland and I’ve been trying to figure out the relation for years. Most Kirtland’s landed in Lynn, MA. Several went to NY and several went to CT. My dads family is from NY.
Plus I have a masters in social work and a masters in Divinity (Episcopalian) and will be an Episcopal priest. Interested in sociology of religion in general! Love this new world of Mormon stories and love J&M!
I will probably comment more because I'm only an hour into the podcast, but I just have to touch on these two things before I forget. I'm an ex-LCMS Lutheran, but had strangely militant parents (namely my mom) for the denomination I grew up in, it was very high-demand in our household. I was born in '94 so I am right before the cut-off for Gen Z, but I relate so much to what McKay was saying about music. I was really, really into screamo, punk, hard rock, etc. at that age, too, and eventually came to love black metal after I left Christianity as a young adult. But what struck me was him talking about hiding his iPod and iTunes so much from his family. I had to do the same thing. I hid my CDs in my closet in a box that I slid between some wooden slats. I had to be so covert. What's funny is my parents viewed all that music as so satanic and the epitome of temptation, yet when I was a teenager, I was so insanely devout to the faith. I didn't care what the message of the music I was listening to was about, nothing about the music I listened to ever shook my faith.
I also wanted to touch on what you guys are saying about how certain things were fine for Jesus, but we we are not allowed to do the same by our high-demand doctrines. I met a couple of openly gay kids in high school and was strictly forbidden from hanging out with them after my parents found out they were gay. Same with any atheist kids I met. I remember arguing with my mom, "But Jesus hung out with debt collectors, prostitutes, and other sinners that were cast out from society. Why am I not allowed to do the same?" My mom insisted that Jesus was different, and he was spreading his love and word. I shot back, "But Jesus calls us to walk in the same way in which he walked." I was grounded by my mom for...being right, lol. I knew it and she knew it was wrong and antithetical to everything Jesus preached to deny that I should be hanging out with "sinners." (For the record, as an atheist and bisexual myself, I do not view atheists and LGBTQ+ people as sinners or anything but perfectly normal humans.)
Just wanted to share my similar experience from a different denomination.
Hey I grew up LCMS as well! I didn't have militant parents, but I definitely felt a lot of shame growing up in an LCMS church. Mormon Stories in general has also helped me a lot in terms of my deconstruction process. I find that I actually relate to a lot of what they have to say.
I think your comment is interesting in that you grew up Lutheran and are into Black Metal. I’m curious if you’re Scandinavian? I find Black metal and Scandi culture interesting with how successful and happy they are yet their arts are so dark. I’m very Scandinavian myself and I always think the Mormon church fits well with the happy face and inward torment. Heavy metal doesn’t touch black metal in my opinion
I grew up LCMS, non-militant household, and am still LCMS. So sad to hear about that shame-inducing rigidity of some parents. I always heard that we are sinful, and saved thru grace, that our faith makes us want to be better, but we are always in need of forgiveness, which is feely given. I was aware of the existence of fundamentalism and knew that it was wrong, but only now do I understand why. It’s hard to accept that it is perpetuated by families even within mainstream religions.
@@DrofJustice I’d like to point out that the whole “you’re sinful and need to be saved” though mainstream, isn’t exactly healthy, either. Especially the conflating of all “sins” as being equal.
@@ThunderStruck15 But Jesus already died for all our sins , thus saving us, that’s the Gospel message. We can communicate directly to God because we inherently know our errors, and don’t need anyone interceding on our behalf. It isn’t necessarily religion that makes us feel guilt, it is our conscience. My faith is one that comforts me because my sins are forgiven and I will be okay, starting each day without burdens. This helps me be grateful, kind, and forgiving to others.
Even though I knew the answers to some of the “deep dive” questions John asked, it wanted to hear Jordan & McKay’s answers, descriptions & feelings. And Carah’s too. Edit: I’ve watched many of J & M UA-cam videos & (still) really enjoyed this more in-depth story.
Omg, John is in a MOOD!!! 😂 Loving it!✌️💚🩵💜
Firstly, I am a NeverMo and am an Episcopalian raised in Louisiana but lived in Massachusetts since 2008. I am a sociologist of religion as a hobby but an a social worker and in process to be an Episcopal priest. Secondly, I love Jordan and McKay and have been and will continue to be supporters of their content creation. Lastly, I really enjoy the way in which you approach your podcast and think its extremely valuable and will recommend!!!
I've never been Mormon but I do watch quite a few ex mo content creators and I love Jordan and McKay! So glad to see such long interviews with them. Can't wait to hear Jordan's story tomorrow!
My grandparents who were never Mormon…. My grandmother’s sister was dating my granddad, he went off to WWI and while he was stationed in Germany she married someone else. He was sent a “Dear John” letter. My grandmother felt so sorry for him that she started writing him and fell in love. They were married the week he came back to the states. ❤️
I love love love this couple! Glad to see them getting more exposure.
I had a similar hair journey the past three years. I always wanted to grow my hair out to just experience life with long hair. The pandemic turned out to be super convenient to not get hair cuts, but I was already committed from 2019. In 2.5 years I had it down past my shoulders. As much as I liked how I looked and the complements I got, I just couldn't deal with the shedding, maintenance, shampooing, and sleeping. BUT! I never would've known any of that if I hadn't tried, and I never would have tried if I didn't have the distance I have from mormonism.
1:00:29 “That’s how I protect myself.” Interesting that one would feel they had to protect themselves from their religion and it’s practices. I appreciate all of you and thank you for being willing to have these conversations. ❤️❤️
Thanks for this!! I’m coming over from Jordan & McKay’s channel & Im fascinated by these stories! I’m ex IFB and a lot of the culture is so similar, though the doctrines & details differ. I think this is why I can relate. I was Mormon adjacent for several years when I dated my kids dad & we attended the church regularly but I had no idea how deep it went! This is so informative!
Yay! I've been listening to both of your channels for a while now and I so appreciate all of your content! Thank you all for your videos and for sharing your stories! Sending you all my love and encouragement 💞
Here from Jordan and McKays channel so excited for these episodes!! Also for some general knowledge, a lot of Orthodox/practicing Jews will stand when Rabbis walk in the room or when an elder walks in the room i.e. grandparents or parents as a sign of respect.
I love Jordan and McKay !!! I find them so smart kind and funny . Going to listen to it now ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I am not part of this religion but I learned about this podcast because Jordan and Mckay.
Yay! So excited to see y’all on here for this interview! I always hoped he would have y’all on here ❤️❤️❤️
I’ve been waiting and waiting for you guys to finallyyyy interview Jordan and McKay! I’ve been watching their channel since the very beginning. Yayyyy!
John, I love your funny side. Thanks for letting it out!
I lived less than a block from the Mormon church in our town, "the" Mormon family most well known in my crowd lived down the street, and I never understood any of it. Thank you for the time spent explaining it all.
I REALLY thought your preface John, about influencers was so, so important to say.
Love how Carah values all generations of mormons.
So fascinating. Thank you for sharing so much with all of us. We appreciate your being so candid. ❤
Non mormon but I am finding these series fascinating. I'm also a subscriber to Jordan and McKay.
9 years ago I was experiencing a bit of a crisis as a teen and was approached by Mormon missionaries, for a while I really considered joining as they seemed so nice and like they really cared. I really wanted to join, but was too scared I will be judged (I live in a very secular country). Currently am obsessed with watching ex-mo content and I’m so glad I chickened out back then, knowing how the church is now it would probably have made the situation a lot worse. Jordan and McKay are awesome!
truly amazing and empathetic hosts, love to see it
Yay for Jordan and McKay!!!! I’m so happy to see them here!
I’m so excited y’all have them as guests! And I love all the information and topics, I’ll happily be listening to all 9+ hours at least once, if not multiple times!
Yes, McKay!! I have watched all your guys' videos and this one gives such wonderful context.
McKay, your hair is GLORIOUS. Just beautiful.
Great job having these two on your show. I was going to send a request. They are the best.
I see a lot of myself in this guy thanks for sharing your story and stay strong to your own beliefs
My mom used to sing My Favorite Things to me and my siblings all the time especially when we were sad or sick. Good memories
McKay covered this topic in such a understandable way. Super smart guy!
I love watching their podcast! This couple is so interesting ❤️
I appreciate the explanation of baptizing the dead within the Temple. As a never Mormon I learn so much from each episode.
didn’t grow up mormon but grew up going to a fundamentalist christian school, with fundamentalist christian, missionary, and jehovah’s witness extended family. completely related to the statement of feeling jaded or weird that everyone around me was having deeply spiritual experiences, speaking in tongues, getting called to preach, etc. meanwhile i just felt weird, uncomfortable and nothing. i felt like god was talking to everyone but me, which made me feel even more isolated while other trauma was happening. i’m agnostic-atheist now.
I knew very little about Mormonism although my husband had a colleague who was a Mormon bishop. Learned so much from ExMo Lex, Jimmy Snow, and. my faves Jordan and McKay
I really enjoyed part 1 of this! Looking forward to watching the rest 😊
Ugh, I have to wait until tomorrow for Part 2??? I adore Jordan and McKay. They seem to have such an endearing respect and love for each other in the videos on their channel.
I've been binging Jordana and McKay videos and this is so fascinating and well done.
Also, as for standing when someone enters a room, I'm an attorney and you stand whenever a judge enters the room. Even if you're just in chambers and there's no clerk saying "all rise." And a lot of judges (not all) seem to be embarrassed when this happens and immediately go, "sit, sit, no reason to stand for me."
So yeah, it's weird to stand when religious leaders enter the room.
A dutch nevermo here, jordan and mckay introduced me to mormon stories and i cant wait to watch this and the next episodes over and over again! 😊
I started watching their video yesterday… and they do this!
Watching from Ireland 🇮🇪 thanks for sharing I'm subscribed to both channels 🙂 I look forward to part 2
So glad you've got Jordan and McKay! I ❤️ them
Their channel covers a lot of topics and they’re genuinely entertaining
Jordan and McKay, you switched places :)