8 Passengers Family Speaks Out about Mormon Therapist Jodi Hildebrandt | Ep. 1817

[@arianne-22]

My ex was going to Jodi and came home and wanted a divorce. I said I would go and do marriage counseling with Jodi but he said she didn’t want to talk to me and I was to get my own therapist, which I had. He started my two daughters going to her. After I researched Jodi I found all these huge issues on line and my attorney said he had another client that came to him with my exact same story, “I feel like Jodi caused my spouse to want to divorce me.” It was a battle to get my girls not to use Jodi. Can you imagine their surprise when they found out that she basically was running a cult. Jodi I believe has inflicted unbelievable amounts of pain on families, marriages and especially the children of those families. I believe she will pay a steep price for her actions someday but to see some of that price being paid a year later brings peace to my soul

[@sykocreations]

I am so sorry you had to come in contact with Jodi. I hope life is looking better for you.

[@sonyagraske376]

PLEASE LET THE D.A. OVER THIS CASE KNOW YOUR STORY. SAD YOU HAD TO GO THROUGH THE HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE YOU WENT THROUGH. I HOPE YOUR GIRLS ARE ALL GOOD. ❤🙏

[@slconley]

Im sorry you had to even meet her, but I’m glad you fought and didn’t just roll over and take the abuse! Good for you speaking out.

[@ksummer6427]

⁠@@sonyagraske376.. yes I came on here to say that exact message.. the DA needs as much info as possible!! Please let them know!! @ariannenemelka9355

[@arianne-22]

@@sykocreations It is, thank you so much!

[@lorrainemingrino9928]

Nothing was more heartbreaking when Ruby in a video was talking about Evie and the prayer she wrote to God. Her prayer was “dear God please help me to survive!” Ruby thought it was so sweet but that sweet girl was crying out for help! Thank God her prayer did get answered thanks to her brother who escaped their hell!

[@zubetp]

with the absolute delight ruby showed when her children were distressed, it doesn't surprise me that she enjoyed finding out how much pain her daughter was in.

[@nicotinedietcoke]

ruby said she actually laughed at eve’s prayer because it was so “cute”… Eve saw her laughing and cried. Ruby admitted Eve was so visibly hurt by her laughter. 💔 true evil

[@abelis644]

Rubitch's reaction to Eve's prayer made me sick actually. She has no insight that her child wanted to survive HER!!!

[@sabrinastein7566]

In which vlog was that??

[@giclat1098]

Far too many involved in organized religion cannot tell the difference between the words and actions of God from Lucifer! My life actions has not been perfect but one of the saddest but luckiest things that happened in my life was stopping Sunday school after my father died as a young child. My religion is strictly Sunday school which gave me a simple, Jesus -based religion to get me thru the years. The lack of the mumbo jumbo promoted now serves me well!

[@innerding]

The young boy that escaped from the grip of his abuser mother and her sidekick is a hero. Because of his bravery he has brought the whole Jodi operation to a halt and has saved so many from suffering in the future from her so called counseling. I hope one day he will realize the positive impact he’s had on so many lives.

[@larissabrglum3856]

Hell, I think he's started a huge domino effect of people looking into how the Mormon church laid the groundwork for these crimes to happen, which results in more people knowing just how corrupt the church is. That's what led me to Mormon Stories. This situation goes deeper than I ever would have guessed and I think we can expect significant legal and cultural shifts as a result of all the abuses being exposed.

[@stewarer]

Yes, RF was courageous. So was Jessi Hilderbrandt when she reported abuse to the police and later tried to get arrested rather than stay in the abusive household of Jodi Hilderbrandt. The difference here was that not only was the abuse much more apparent on RF with his emaciation and wounds, but that Jodi was now a huge presence on social media, which was not the case at the time when Jessi tried to escape. How many others will come to light?

[@heathercondie4176]

I want to give him a high five and a hug.

[@Truthinessify]

I think he saved his and his sister's very lives.

[@LovesJesusandAmericaToo]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@bryancp87]

I was extremely traumatized by my bishop after coming to him about me and my gf touching under clothing(no sex) . It was so bad it gave me an unhealthy view of intimacy. I hated myself for so many years and thought I would never be able to be clean. The miracle of forgiveness is absolutely horrific. I left the church so my kids don’t have to go through this

[@rebeccacall7348]

​@JustJ-Me Unfortunately, you were also easy to blame because you are a woman. Heaven forbid it's ever the man's fault by Mormon standards because the perpetual rape culture states that men are incapable of self control. It's always the woman's job to keep men in check.

[@lovenliven1111]

One of my favorite song lyrics is ( I teach my children they are loved and not forgiven) i was raised mormon and carried incredible guilt around for being molested, so grateful to be free and not raising my kids that way Btw song artist Nahko Bear and medicine for the people❤

[@FLOTILLA4852]

Jesus also taught LOVE - everything else was MADE UP

[@daniellealexander7392]

I believe you have finally shed the light on this case that no one else has. The coverage on this case as a whole has been huge, but the way you have put it all together tonight on your podcast feels like the untold story. It became easier for me to connect the dots to all of this after watching the interview with Jessi and Adam. After watching those interviews I was able to see and understand more of Kevin's side of things. Learning who Jodi is through the eyes of Adam and Jessi helped me see that Kevin's side of things was not so hard to believe. Jodi is an Alienator. She alienates everyone from eachother which is how she does what she does. Great story tonight John. I have learned so much from your podcast. I appreciate all you do ❤

[@squidknee.]

Agree! I’ve watched videos from other creators covering this story and feel like they are most likely unaware of Jodi’s patterns that were corroborated by her other victims. Kevin never publicly disagreed or stepped in with how Ruby disciplined their children in the past before Jodi came into the picture, which is awful and should warrant some blame, but I’m giving the benefit of the doubt that he might’ve been unaware of to what extent his children were being abused under Jodi’s direction. I’m thinking John hit the nail on the head.

[@Boots534]

They took the doors off the bathrooms! Doubt they caught Chad doing anything! She wasnt worried about Chad or she wouldn't have thrown the kids under the bus

[@coll4455]

This!!!

[@deannreynolds9018]

😊😊😊)

[@happyday-yx7mx]

I had a very different experience in the Latterday Saint Church. I was disfellowshipped for pre marital sex no one shamed my family or myself still went to church still had my same friends. My family was not impacted at all. I even went to girls camp as a craft counselor. I left the church 5 years latter because i did not agree with other doctrine. And have 30 years later maintained friendships in the LDS Church. If you don't agree with a churches doctrine go find another church. And only an idiot would listen to the instruction of man rather than the Christ and the holy Spirit.

[@aromaathome]

Oh John! You are so right on with all of this! No wonder I was confused as a newly married Mormon “woman” at the ripe old age of 19! I didn’t know how to turn off the shame as soon as we said “I do”. So happy to report I’m still happily married to my sweet husband 37 years later…. But that’s probably because we left the church almost 30 years ago. 🙏

[@peaceliberty4all]

Take responsibility for that fact or place it on your parents. There are plenty of people like myself who grew up in the church and weren''t confused after marriage.

[@rainbowmom7582]

Happy Anniversary! I hope you have many more happy years together! ❤

[@osajohnson1957]

Wonderful!

[@osajohnson1957]

Angry much?@@peaceliberty4all

[@rebeccacall7348]

Good for you guys!

[@joycegilmore5032]

Adam Steed is such a strong person. I would not have survived what jodi did to him.

[@sonja5191]

I am sure he feels vindicated now. Jodi deserves a long sentence and total asset seizure to pay her victims.

[@someonesgranny5387]

He and Jessie are so articulate and kind....and so strong, though they maybe don't realise how strong they are.

[@nadineevans5195]

They are so strong. However, the brokenness that was still apparent when Adam was telling his story was absolutely heartbreaking. I actually had to stop watching.

[@Jane-g4q4b]

Yes. I am glad🎉 Soo glad Adam & Jess (maybe the a few ppl r stepping up on that (whoknowsWhAT).. SICK abnormal Brain/evil spirit??

[@someonesgranny5387]

​@@nadineevans5195yes it was difficult, I thought it was good at the end how he explained that although it is difficult to go through everything that happened, he has a good life now.

[@DagmarDollmaier]

I had no idea I needed this so much. My father and his family were jack Mormons but he insisted I go to Primary when I was around 5 years old. My parents were never religious but there I was alone in the church. My mom yanked me out when I came home spewing hate (in her opinion) but I was still allowed to be a camp counselor at Camp Lo Mia (in Arizona) in my teens. The LDS Church was literally across the street from my high school in the early '80s so nearly everything was linked to them. Almost all my friends were Mormon. There were parties and basketball tourneys (I was really into basketball) and it was a cool place to hang out. I became kind of an infamous lesbian in my junior year of high school (long story having nothing to do with my behavior) and was called in to talk to Bishop ****** who was also my neighbor and regular client of my babysitting business. He asked me why I wanted to go to Camp Lo Mia. Obviously because it's a gorgeous place and I really enjoyed helping kids. "I was hoping you'd say you wanted to meet God there." Well, no, I don't believe in God so that won't happen. Then he launched in to a diatribe about how he'd met the love of his life at an LDS camp and how he knew it wasn't proper and he'd forgone "pleasures of the flesh" to get married and have six kids. He was talking about a very intense homosexual experience and I just cried for him. Wow, dude. "I hope you can overcome your deepest desires and just have babies." That's never going to happen. Most of my friends were excommunicated and that was horrific because they basically lost their families. Since my parents were never actually going to the church, I couldn't talk to them about it. My siblings were never forced to go to Primary like I was. It was an isolating experience. Mormonism is the very weirdest part of my life and I'm nearly 60 years old. Sorry for blabbing.

[@gointothedogs4634]

Loved your blabbing, it reminded me of some things that happened in my Mormon experiences when my family moved to Salt Lake.

[@_smurfitude]

I loved your blabbing too! It was a wonderful story. I'm about three years older than you. I met Mormon young men when they were missionaries. They tried to get me to convert. I only talked to them because they came to my house on their tours. I don't condemn anyone and thanks to this channel, I learned even more. Jodi Hildebrandt will pay even more! Truth is, she caused families a lot of pain. The LDS church has a lot of problems and the entire situation is very tragic. I really liked your posts.

[@TraceD007]

I’m with you, a class action lawsuit against the church for some of the people they’ve hurt who will need sooo much therapy from a therapist not working for the church. I’m absolutely sick over this news, especially how Jessi was treated as a child and even now being ostracized from their family. The children of the Frankes will need therapy as well. So many victims and the church should pay.

[@JudeNance]

SO LET IT BE

[@artistrybyericadawn4122]

We do not condone child abuse!!!! I love our Lds church. Some of the best people I know are in our Lds church

[@katrinat.3032]

I think those kids will need therapy for many years. I pray they never try to end their own lives

[@TraceD007]

@@artistrybyericadawn4122 then why won’t the church denounce these teachings? They don’t want to lose the tithings?

[@bewilderedwomenstravels6776]

You are a cult. ​@@artistrybyericadawn4122

[@Will0wFire]

The difference between Adam and Kevin is that Adam fought for his children. He's a hero.

[@dymonbrady6812]

Kevin was working hard within the parameters set by Ruby and Jodi to get back into the home. He looked at his family’s photo every morning as motivation to fix his “porn addiction” 🙄 to get back home. He was doing what he thought was the fastest way back, according to interviews

[@dymonbrady6812]

@@Pammyspoint I believe you - you wouldn’t. But it was a combination of indoctrination, passive personality and bullying by Jodi and Ruby that made him feel he was trapped into staying away. He looked at his family’s picture every morning as motivation to stay away from porn so he could be allowed by God, Jodi and Ruby to be reunited with his family. He wasn’t ignoring them. He wasn’t allowed to be with them. He could have and should have done it differently but I see his personality thinking he was doing the right thing under the control of indoctrination.

[@jdavis4408]

Mormon stories at its best. John you have an excellent ability to explain a very confusing and nuanced event. Blessings on everyone involved and your program has shined a light of hope into this darkness.

[@SallyJane-nh3zy]

AMEN AMEN! To every word you say, I am so grateful for all that you talk about! I knew Jodi personally back in 2011 she used to be in my ward when I was active and going to church. I have now left the church for these exact reasons! I was referred to Jodi for marriage counseling with my husband and I. Nothing terrible happened but I stopped going to her for her extreme ways and toxic behaviors. It Al stems from the churches controlling and shaming beliefs about sexual transgression. It sickens me how much damage she has done to sooo many people and marriages and children. I am so glad people are coming out and sharing their stories. My heart goes out to those who have been victims of her. 💔

[@dixiechick6652]

These stories about what she did to families are heartbreaking. Glad to hear you seen her for what she is.

[@kjn3005]

Thank goodness you didn’t continue treatment with Jodi and your family is still intact. There are so many horrible stories about her destroying so many people and families😓

[@marosuke139]

I am not a Mormon, nor do I belong to any religious group, but I feel that anyone following or reporting on this topic should always watch your videos for resource before they say anything. Its very easy to call out Ruby and Jodi as simply "crazy people" and Kevin as the "irresponsible Dad that did nothing/took part in the abuse" and there are many videos out there spreading that narrative. Sure that is not a false statement, and I whole heartedly hope that justice will be served, but its also so important to understand the root of the problem which is so much deeper than anyone could ever have imagined if you were not familiar with the values and ethics that they themselves were brought up in. Your interviews and insights have been extremely helpful in understanding all this. Thank you so much.

[@bella_sera2]

Then why her son and daughter escape from that house!??

[@vw4822]

I grew up Mormon. I have no idea what you are talking about. Some say Ruby's parents were abusive. If so, that is their dysfunction and character. Nothing to do with religion.

[@katie8325]

@@vw4822🙄🙄

[@joyabia682]

​@@vw4822everything to do with the mormon church you are enabling by defending here and Continuing to be a member. How many abuses will come to light to jolt you out of this?

[@melodymadison-np9yv]

Covert or passive abuse is a real part in this. Do not minimize it!

[@tcrod79]

I was brought up Catholic, and when I was in HS we moved to a community that was predominantly Mormon. I remember having Mormon friends that were obsessed with this topic. I always thought it was weird how they would insert porn, and masturbation as a topic when the conversation wasn’t even about that. Example, girls dancing on a music video was similar to pornography to them. They would say “oh that’s porn, they’re touching themselves” Meanwhile, no one else was even remotely thinking about any kind of sexual act while watching that music video 🥴 everything had some kind of sexual connotation, it was disturbing!

[@TheOldstufffan]

All these non religious and psych educated streamers/ podcasters are like what? This is crazy! They aren’t aware how sexually obsessed many conservative/ fundamentalist people are.

[@reginaparker3207]

I had the same thought when I watched Adam's interview. When he mentioned porn, he talked about women in underwear ads. The preoccupation is just odd to me; I grew up Presbyterian, and church was only "church stuff." Anything to do with puberty, sex, porn etc was never referred to at church.

[@SamanthaShelley]

John this is so fire, even for you! 👏🏻 LDS people seem quick to dismiss this situation as having nothing to do with Mormonism but you walked us through some incredible systems thinking here! WELL DONE 🔥

[@gailfisher4767]

I am only just starting to become educated about "high demand religions", mostly through your podcast. I immediately realized that the media coverage especially in the "true crime communities " about Jodi and Ruby is missing the mark on root cause. Thanks for your coverage.

[@MKConnecticut]

Exactly!! This Mormon connection is a critical part of the story which should be included in mainstream media

[@dnlhrrng]

Thank you John for bringing up how extreme sexual shaming and control in high-demand religions lays the foundation for abuse and manipulation and damage to people's lives. This is a huge part of how Jodi was able to gain so much power and cause so much damage to people and families, and it's a far more widespread issue than just her too.

[@mcdonols]

Glad you’re drawing the connection to the church/theology directly. People tend to skirt around this especially when they still have connections to faith. Thanks for sharing quotes from various prophets and being so clear!

[@heatherhammersmith8997]

YES! YES! YES!!! This was the exact thought I had the moment I'd heard (Jess' interview) that the church both refered and payed these abusive "counselors," CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT. It just seems impossible that these circumstances don't add up to legal liability.

[@MamaSea888]

I hope this presentation goes viral for Mormon Stories podcast, phenomenal work John and crew 👏👏👏

[@TheInstigator1026]

Yes! Everyone like and share.

[@Woodthrush]

John, Thank you for exposing this. You are saving families! 🙏

[@karinwells8507]

Mormons are a cult 😳

[@jeremy_trent]

Exposing what?????

[@sonyagraske376]

​@@jeremy_trentthe thoughts and ways the mormon church teaches.

[@abelis644]

​@@jeremy_trent Watch the videos, you'll figure it out... Maybe. If not, I pity you...

[@vmcgriff]

I saw your interview with Adam and was appalled at the way in which Jodi manipulated his wife and totally ruin his life! When this all started with the Franke’s - I was convinced that Jodi was behind and the mastermind of all that was taking place! So sad for this family and hate the abuse that was happening to these innocent children! Thank you for all you do! Love your channel! ♥️ ***Had one other thought after my initial comment: Jodi’s niece commented in your interview that they said that they were accused of m-bating and they did not even know this was even possible with with the female anatomy. So sad what this poor child went through at the hands of their Aunt. 😢

[@crissaokamura2705]

Adam has stated that his ex-wife is now just a shell of a woman & nothing like the bright woman he once knew after everything with Jodi Hilderbrandt. Very sad & very scary.

[@KurtMathews-ko6rc]

My god this is breaking down generational trauma. Thank you, for spelling it out.

[@jodavis650]

One of the saddest things is that those kids a probably innocent but in their little minds they believe they are guilty of whatever Jodi put into their heads..😢

[@thisaccount765]

💯! It’s one of the least talked about collateral issues that sprang from this. Everyone I’d worried about the immediate safety of the children, but It’s going to take copious therapy to heal the damage that Ruby and Jodi caused to the psyche of those kids. They believe they did things that they clearly did not. It’s one of the reasons I think Kevin should never regain custodial rights to the children. He was present during the abuses of the 8 passenger days and was complicit, long before they knew Jodi. Further, he is still involved in the same high-demand religion that he was always in. It’s a mess.

[@rebeccacall7348]

I can vouch for that. During my childhood in the Mormon church, I was always painted as such a bad kid, almost spawn of Satan levels, and I carried that belief well into my early adult years. It wasn't until I was fully out of that environment that I realized I actually was a good person, so I can only imagine the amount of work it's going to take to deconstruct the lies Jodi and Ruby put into these kids' heads. Breaks my heart, honestly. 💔

[@jivajenmoreno-adams9984]

Thank you for addressing the elephant in the room John. Sexual shame IMO may be the root in all these recent stories (Daybell, Ballard, Jodi & Ruby.). We are sexual beings, the Mormon church (and other churches) have made something beautiful and healthy into something ugly and toxic.

[@Star-gw2sj]

That and also the delusions of dead people living inside them (Daybell), end times prepping, thinking they can see visions of prophets who are giving them all the answers, etc. What a waste of life to spend the whole time worrying about what may happen after they die instead of ever being able to enjoy the moment. Also we have young people being pushed into marriage and having lots of children whether they want it or not.

[@Sandman1977-d9y]

I bet all the bishops go home and bash one out and keep it secret lol sorry but I said what I said 😂🤷🏻‍♀️

[@jodavis650]

The church needs to be held accountable

[@jivajenmoreno-adams9984]

@@Star-gw2sj yes, my 87 yr father died this FEB. He was a Seventy. He was deluded and miserable and whilst I believe he loved my Mom, I always felt I got my gay gene 🧬 from him. He didn’t marry until age 30 (1964) that’s rare. I think: what say you Dad now Kolob is nil?

[@jivajenmoreno-adams9984]

@@jodavis650 amen 🙏 for so much. Still don’t get why a class action lawsuit hasn’t been filed for 10% of sooo many pocketbooks

[@jay-z1r]

Aside from the alleged horrific treatment of the children and the destruction of relationships and families, one of the most sickening elements of this case is using core human-value words such as truth, love, humility and gift to mask an ideology that, I believe, is truly malevolent, coersive and destructive. In my opinion, the greatest 'gift' you can give a child is the ability to think for oneself, make informed decisions and the where-with-all to treat others with respect, dignity, empathy and civility. Thanks for shedding light on the complexities that underpin this tragic story.

[@kevinknox9543]

Hey John, this episode turned me into a paying member. Thanks for your hard work and for such a concise and complete analysis of what's going on. As a seventh generation member of the church, BYU grad '72, BS psychology, Tau Sig, if any of you guys are left, busted for marijuana in Helaman Halls, January '68, but am a great salesman and only got social probation, no jail, I look forward to Mormon Stories more than anything online. Today, I'm a born - again Atheist yet still can't figure out who wrote The Book of Mormon! By the way, a friend of mine knew Fawn Brodie back in the day, and he said she was devastated, completely devastated when they excommunicated her. I thought you'd find it interesting. Thanks for all you do again and I'm looking forward to future read.

[@anitakyota9922]

Joseph Smith told the story and his scribes wrote it down. Pure and simple.

[@bodytrainer1crane730]

It is so wonderful how Mormon Stories is shining light on unhealthy social controls that have been toxic to both individuals and communities. Thank you Mormons Stories! 🌸🌸🌸

[@robincook4349]

WOW, I can't believe those leaders would say losing your virtue is worse than death and even worse that parents would go along with that. Very shameful.

[@MamaSea888]

Brain washing at its best

[@emilymschoener9193]

I have Mormon friends and this entire case has opened by eyes to their fathers and brothers and I am absolutely shocked.

[@renmuffett]

Interesting, I was a LDS for over 6 years and heard all the top 12 disciples within the church and Stake presidents speak and they never said anything like that within my hearing. I was even doing temple work once upon a time too and was familiar with the teachings as well as anyone. Some of the things some of those so called leaders were saying here is their own ridiculous conclusions. Even though I left the church years ago, I'm glad I was never within their Stake presidency or Ward. My own area was great. But missed the faith I was raised in so went back to that. We know that the safest place for Satan to hide is within a church. Any Church who professes Jesus is Lord.

[@Pkeats817]

It’s absolutely shameful, and wacky!

[@courtneycox8297]

Thank you, John. You work so hard to bring us this important content. You and all at Mormon Stories are so appreciated.

[@duncansonoryan]

I'm stunned that the sister didn't mention the kids. It was just about how hard it was for her. Like. Lady, those kids went thru hell. Out gives me weird feelings.

[@flishi7171]

the judge is not allowing them to talk about the children at all

[@duncansonoryan]

@@flishi7171 thank God for small mercies.

[@legriffi]

I was taught in my Mormon family that children didn’t deserve privacy as well. So sad…

[@legriffi]

@taramcgavan7654 only by some strange miracle of happenings, i finally found the truth and resigned my membership earlier this year. I would have been stuck in it for life otherwise. I’m working to write out the timing of things and what triggered/helped me along my deconstruction.

[@zeynepbadur2354]

As a never Mormon I find myself correcting other content creators on Mormon influence,while watching their take on this story, because I first watched yours. You are always very good putting the stories into context.

[@danielllllllllle]

John, I sincerely appreciate you. Your ability to make sense of all of these stories- for us "NeMos" is so incredibly helpful. You've helped more people by speaking out thru the years, than you EVER could've helped by staying silent. Kudos.

[@Alibee123]

Nailed it!! Thankyou again John for putting light on the workings of the LDS organization and families in it. I am autistic and suffer non verbalism when I am stressed and I found myself struggling in my teens to confess my sexual orientation and m-bation to my bishop who was also my father, which I did still knowing he felt sexual ‘sin’ was worse than death. As long as I confessed he was fine with it- it meant he retained control on me. As a youth in the church I really tried. I was smitten once with a boyfriend in the church and wrote him a personal letter.. it wasn’t anything x rated but I creatively expressed my feelings for him and I was betrayed and humiliated when he showed the letter to his stake president father. I shared a flat with student members of the church. One night my bf took a driving break and stopped in to see me.. he slept on my room floor. Nothing segsual at all occured the plan was he would leave before my flatmates awoke. I can’t recall exactly what happened, my LDS flat mates called their father and told him I had a boy staying over and that was the end of my good reputation and friendships in the LDS youth group in that stake.. even though we hadn’t done anything! I remember calling my parents to tell them before they heard from someone else. Not surprisingly that was the absolute end of that relationship and my life as I knew it. SO much stuff to unpack from being raised LDS. It is only now after listening to this podcast that I am feeling able to really forgive my LDS parents and family for a lifetime of abuse and dysfunction. Thankyou MS team.

[@JackiePane]

Thank you for putting this together. The world needs to know and support the victims.

[@MKUltra42]

All those quotes about better to be dead than to lose one’s “virtue” just makes me think of poor Elizabeth Smart. 😢

[@dwinthrop1015]

It makes me think of cultures where “honor killing” is a norm for women who bring shame on the family.

[@rebeccacall7348]

You also look at gay members killing themselves because they want to die with their purity in tact instead of living and possibly giving in to their natural urges.

[@noahheninger]

Elizabeth Smart is probably the reason the Church toned down its rhetoric. The rhetoric is still a problem, but you don't hear anyone say "it is better to lose your life than lose your virtue" anymore.

[@pennyc11]

Catholics too..girls are taught to lose that makes you less of a human being. unwanted. A horrible crime to commit against children. A ploy to use sa as a means to steal a child from their family. Families supported this crime because their society supported this outcome. I imagine it started because of the spread of std's and pregnancy. A horrible crime against females created by evil adults. I forgot to say victims were forced into marriage with abusers.

[@barbycrabb369]

You explained all of this perfectly John! It makes more sense to us non-Mormons.

[@flom4289]

Thank you John for laying out the harm of the system so clearly. As I work towards being an LCSW I’ve been horrified that the focus has been on Ruby rather than Jodi. There WILL be more stories and until we change the system - with or without Jodi. The bigger picture was desperately needed. Appreciate your work

[@stacieamberson5570]

John, I really like what hidden true crimes looked into concerning Kevin Frankie. They looked at rate my professor and found out that Frankie was close to abusive to many of his students at BYU. These incidences happened in 2021 or 2022. He was accused of throwing a book at a student, shaming them, and grabbing a students arm pulling them into his office. I think it’s very insightful into the type of person Kevin was. He was not clean from all of this I don’t think. I think he knew more than we want to know because he still had those, very strict and intolerable views on parenting

[@yankeecitygirl]

yeah this vid is an attempt to "rehabilitate" kevin IOW whitewash

[@mormonstories]

That’s great to know! Please send link!!!

[@emilymschoener9193]

I saw that discussion and video as well. Was very eye-opening. The referenced posts on the site were made before any of this came out, so it wasn’t review bombs.

[@jenniferhart3941]

I hope he doesn’t get custody of his kids. He and Ruby were abusive to them them long before Jodi came along!

[@justine7083]

@@emilymschoener9193 But maybe because of their controversial YT channel, 8 Passengers? Lots of people were mad at them because of that.

[@catasrophieGrrl]

It was so upsetting the other night when I realised that while we were all watching Lori Vallow Daybell get her sentence for what she did to her children Tylee and JJ, Franke's children were likely suffering at the hands of these people at that very moment and we had no idea. While we were all hoping that by talking about Tylee and JJ it might never happen again, it was already going on. Thankfully the Franke children saved themselves before they ended up in a fatal position. 😢 My love to the 6 Franke Children.

[@missiris1234]

Children are being abused every day. Every county has a CPS division. Child protective services is a hard job and often under funded.

[@MKConnecticut]

Yes, and some of the neighbors of the Franke’s said they were afraid the kids would come out in body bags! As someone who is not Mormon, I believe the information John D is exposing right here is essential to the whole story.

[@LittleOrla]

Sad thought 😢

[@LittleOrla]

​​@@missiris1234A good hearted friend of mine got her degree in social services. She lasted a year on the job. The caseloads are impossible, those you cannot help are heartbreaking. It's depressing, brutal work. 😢

[@xspex1321]

Well that's a massively depressing thing that has never crossed my mind until now. 😭😭

[@pasitheathanatosasmr488]

Omg I love how excited you got when Law & Crime plays Jessi’s Mormon Stories clip! So wholesome.

[@MichaelGranger-jh4uf]

Thank you for explaining how sexual shaming can be used as a weapon. I am not Mormon but taught in Mesa public schools for two decades annd experienced how Mormons were different. However, from a teachers viewpoint the kids and parents were absolutely wonderful people. This case and the Lori Vallow case have been shocking to me.

[@tarabeck4511]

I was raised Mormon but am no longer. Mormons are typically good people, but they also have a culture of not talking about chruch related issues or criticisms and putting on a facade of ultra niceness. It's an expectation to look good to others. The sexual shame is real, and so are many of the other problems

[@renmuffett]

I was LDS for at least 6 years and left the church. The people I knew were all wonderful and good people. I left because I missed the faith I was actually raised in, which is Christian Non Denominational. We all know that the safest place for Satan to hide is within a church. So I will never blame the Church who Loves Jesus of evil. Evil will always reside within the walls of all of them.

[@youtubename7819]

We all need to learn the difference between “presentable” and “good.” It’s similar to the difference between “nice” and “kind.” Nice is a manipulative interpersonal strategy. Kind is a genuine character attribute based on actions. Mormons generally are presentable. They LOOK healthy and happy and respectful in public. But Mormonism is not good. A lot of adults say traumatized kids (of any background) are well behaved and respectful, and that these behaviors make them “good kids.” But that is PRESENTABLE, not GOOD.

[@loisbraidi-cl8xb]

Thank you so very much John, for teaching all others and myself about what is going on with the Mormon religion. The abuse of these Franke children was horrific. Absolutely horrible, but now I do understand how this brain washing happened. Thank you for educating me about the Mormon religion past and present doctrine. Evilness is usually all about money.

[@JeantheSecond]

Quotes from Elizabeth Smart: “I did make that promise to myself that I was going to wait until marriage before I had sex... Well, then I was kidnapped and I was raped, and one of the first thoughts I had was, 'No one is ever going to want to marry me now: I'm worthless, I'm filthy, I'm dirty.' I think every rape survivor feels those same feelings, but having that with the pressure of faith compounded on top-it was almost crippling." “You're like this stick of gum, and if you have sex before you're married, it's like someone chews up that piece of gum, and then when you're done, who wants a piece of gum that's already chewed up? No one." Even after her rescue, Smart sat through another such lesson, in which she was told: "You're like this beautiful fence, and you hammer these nails in, and then every time you have sex with someone else, it's like you're hammering in another nail. And you can take them out, you can repent of them, but the holes are still there. I just remember thinking, This is terrible. Do they not realize I'm sitting in class? Do they not realize that I'm listening to what they're saying?"

[@MKUltra42]

This video is SO important. I am going to recommend it in the comments of all the other non-Mormon creators who are trying to analyze the Franke/Hildebrandt case. The Mormon “angle” can’t be overemphasized. None of them seem to understand how Kevin could separate from his family to try to “save” it but I think it’s understandable if you look through the lens of the Church.

[@MKConnecticut]

Yes, this information needs to show up in mainstream media too!

[@thisaccount765]

Kevin sure did sit idle by and watch Ruby delight in her children’s suffering during the 8 passenger days while they were still living together as a married couple. I used to watch those videos in horror. Man, she loved to punish those kids. Her self satisfaction for harming them was stomach turning. And this was looong before they new Jodi. It was that way from their first videos. And now Kevin wants custody in spite of the fact that he is still in the same high demand religion he was in before. Nothing has changed in his mind. He needs therapy and supervised visitation and the kids need TONS of therapy and to be protected from their parents.

[@dena81]

As soon as I heard Adam's story I instantly thought of the 'rumor' of what Ruby alleged of her child. The only thing I could think is if this was true, she absolutely probably took the most normal thing for any 12 year old boy (and girl too but in most religious groups they really try to punish the girl for even thinking about it and sadly tend to make them more baby making machines than anything) and basically turned this poor boy into a predator. This is seriously frightening especially with what they did to him and seeing how Adam and both Jessi are after all of that. And again to any Jodi defenders, Adam refused over and over for any financial support where as Jodi is sitting in a million dollar home. So you can't say any of these people are doing it for money or anything. They are exposing a dangerous person who should never have been allowed to advise anyone. And maybe should've gotten a good therapist for herself as sadly it seems she may have her own past issues she needs to work through.

[@MegaWeegee64]

I've been thinking this too. Poor kid probably was just doing something natural and she turned it into this huge shameful thing. Those kids are going to need so much help. My heart hurts for them.

[@IggyBros]

I don’t see how she thinks it’s gonna fly accusing her kid of such things! She literally pulled her kids out of school because the school played a sexually suggestive song they didn’t agree with and her words were ‘you are introducing them to the world’ as she sat in her car in tears! Also she took Chad’s bathroom door off! Yet she wants us to believe she was aware that her kid was watching pornography at the age of 3 in her own household and she just let it continue! Hell no! She ran that house with an iron fist!

[@kittypantz]

Thank you for this! After watching your compelling interviews with Jessi and Adam, I was looking forward to your follow up on this story in regards to the comments by Ruby's sisters and Kevin's lawyer. I would love to hear more stories from other victims of Jodi if they are willing to share with you. Thanks for doing what you do. I loved these episodes and look forward to more when more information becomes available as this story unfolds.

[@Herewearenowentertainus]

Wow. Adam steed cracked this whole case wide open. It’s literally the same thing she did to him. wow.

[@missiris1234]

I hope other men and families come out against Jody. I don't think Jody will see the light of day for what she has done to this community

[@tiffany.Elizabeth.]

As a never Mormon, but fascinated by high control groups / religions / cults I really appreciate everything you do! Because from the outside it’s all so bizarre. So it’s great to add humanity to what we hear and see.

[@starsrgood]

I agree with you. I also am a never Mormon.

[@osajohnson1957]

Well said!

[@laurawayman1434]

I love this. I’m a convert and haven’t been able to truly convey the insanity to my non-member family. This is something I can share with them so they TRULY understand how brainwashed my husband and I were.

[@alisongood9572]

The side-by-side photos of Ruby and Jodi looking up at the judge in their prison uniforms are telling. Ruby looks attentive and Jodi looks scared. It's like Ruby isn't worried because she's drunk the Kool-Aid, but Jodi knows she's been caught and it's all coming tumbling down. Ruby doesn't feel guilty, but Jodi knows she is,

[@nancyjaynes2868]

@alisongood9572: Jodi also said in one of the videos that she is claustrophobic.

[@Michigan1985]

Great insight John, thanks!

[@mormonstories]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lisahance]

Excellent video! I'm an ex-Mormon and am really learning a lot that I didn't know when I was in the church.

[@AlaskaMomof2]

Just started reading “Counting the Cost” by Jill Duggar. After reading 2 chapters I knew what lead Josh to porn. The constant reminders of how you don’t do this or that got his curiosity going. Now this is the exact thing that has caused this situation to this family. Very good pod cast. Very eye opening to the Mormon church. So glad I’m am not a part of this religion.

[@DominiRobison]

John you are a true voice of clarity and compassion in a highly toxic atmosphere controlled through fear and traumatized terrorized human beings . On behalf of any and all traumatized by toxic systems , Thank you !

[@metteschreinerberge5541]

This is the best covering of the Jodi/ Ruby scandal I have seen so far. Thank you. Being from Norway, it is very interesting to learn about the doctrines of the Mormon church. Harsh stuff indeed! Then add a dash of psychopathy into the mix, and the perfect storm is established.

[@lavaxbunni3799]

This is just the tip of the iceberg!! How many families has Jodi destroyed?!?! These are just what we’re hearing about and it’s horrific, I can’t imagine what else she has done.

[@rebeccacall7348]

Not just Jodi, but the Mormon church in general. A lot of her practices revolved around Mormon principles, so how many other Jodis were destroying lives before this one actually got caught?

[@Sandman1977-d9y]

This was such a brilliant, insightful and informative live - thank you! You have summarised and concluded all data points from mormonism and everyones perspective who is involved, including historical accounts from Adam and Jesse. This has painted a much clearer picture for us to see how everything has unfolded. Obviously some claims at this point are speculative, but we can certainly read between the lines and bet your bottom dollar that your guesses are correct. We can hypothesise that one variable effected another ie, sexual shame led to wilderness camps and losing his bed - losing personal space if a young man is doing normative sexual behaviours makes perfect sense! After all, he was seeing Jodi at this time. Furthermore, although Kevin clearly endorsed Ruby's parenting style, as he is also their parent... I can see him challenging this and it having a Domino effect on himself admitting to this 'sin' as well. So I now have space for some empathy and compassion for him as it seems he too, has been victimised. Just to add, from Adams story up until now, I can only imagine that Jodi has further employed more tactics and sharpened her tool kit. I think poor Russell would have endured even more severe and serious torment had he not escaped - her hate for males is palpable at this point. I've also enjoyed learning about mormanism - I've never been interested in learning about any religion but I guess when it's this high demand, powerful and disturbing it grabs your attention. As much as this story is so sad and heartbreaking, it's certainly shed light and awareness on many aspects of this type of religion. Maybe Russell and Eve will be the superheroes for previous and future victims as part of a movement for change when we look back on this in years to come.

[@jodavis650]

Exactly

[@MKConnecticut]

As a non- Mormon myself, well said!

[@beverleypicard2116]

Ditto

[@nancyjaynes2868]

So the Mormon church doesn’t believe that the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus was sufficient for salvation? That they have to work to perfect themselves? And that beating the devil out of children you can save their souls?

[@julieprince5538]

Thank you John for breaking this down. The church comes out against Tim B but pure silence about Jody.

[@4212white]

Exactly what I have wondered about. This silence on their part over Jodi, just may be their total and complete downfall. As the truth comes out, it will destroy any credibility they may have. John has just exposed their dirty little secret.

[@Elysian777]

Jessi said that Jodi would accuse her of committing sexual 'sins' and she didn't even know what they meant. All because Jodi 'dreamed' that Jessi did, so that made it 'true'. Sick pathology and probably a level of projection.

[@junederksen9205]

That wasn’t what Jesus was saying. He was talking about judgement. Judging people for adultery when you yourself are constantly doing it in your mind too. He was making a point on the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. Which is why….the woman caught in adultery was NOT stoned. Jesus said whoever was without sin throw the first stone. Mormonism is literally a cult, not a church.

[@SophieJackson1993]

Good insight.

[@justice-jb5ld]

Yes, the Mormon Church is a cult.

[@birgitogaard]

Yes, I agree

[@Sunshine_day]

Yes, this! And Joseph Smith was a known serial adulterer. But of course, they were all his "Spiritual Wives," so that makes it okay!

[@cheanarchist2381]

Thankyou men love to twist the word ti suit there agenda

[@animec-dramaskpop6362]

You helped me see Kevin's pov better than his lawyer did.

[@iffyangel3380]

His lawyer knows, but is restrained by law to make certain comments. If they are found guilty we will hear so much more.

[@missiris1234]

I do feel bad for the sisters. I think Kevin was an abused man by Jody and Ruby.

[@jodavis650]

I guessed what happened with Kevin after I saw adam talk..I even commented on the red headed sister not to judge kevin so harshly..but to be honest she made it about herself I think narcissists run through that family because of her 2nd video

[@katharinefrancis6320]

I wouldn't feel too bad for her sisters, considering Bonnie has talked about utilizing blanket training, which is from "To Train Up a Child" AKA the manual on how to use child abuse to torture your children into submission. Just because they don't go to the extremes that Ruby did doesn't mean they aren't using unacceptable methods to keep their children under control to ensure they can keep up that Mormon Influencer image. @@missiris1234

[@animec-dramaskpop6362]

@@jodavis650 I'll have to finish his interview now. What he's been through is too heartbreaking and it's hard to listen to it all.

[@paulj5467]

I spent 2 years in Life Star. You are describing it EXACTLY how it was. In the program You can NEVER come back to equal ground with your spouse. It destroyed my marriage and my family.

[@GaliSinatra]

Wow, a great presentation John! Everyone should understand this now, well, except the Mormon church probably.

[@theschnauz2138]

Thank you for this episode. It really helps to put pieces together. 👍 I think Kevin is the proverbial frog in a pot. It started with lifelong conditioning of extreme conformity and then Ruby’s normalisation and escalation. It is fair to say that Kevin has been mentally abused by Jodi and the fake clinical system she set up. He’s also susceptible to blindly following when people in authority at church endorse someone like Jodi. But he was also enabling Ruby’s natural inclination toward cruelty before Jodi came along. He needs to take responsibility for his part and realise that he needs a good non-LDS therapist to help him overcome his conditioning.

[@TheOldstufffan]

Very well said.

[@thisaccount765]

Definitely the very best reason for Kevin to NOT be awarded custody and to receive only supervised visitation while he receives copious amounts of mainstream therapy!!!

[@M3gnog]

That hinckley quote about not going home “unclean” is one of the more triggering things I’ve heard in over a decade lol Thank you for doing the good work, all eyes are on the church finally and so many people need this added religious/cultural context

[@anthonymagee5725]

So if the church should fall then what is next for you ex Mormons?

[@bad2bone]

@anthony my brother in Christ, why are you even here other than to be a confrontational troll?

[@anthonymagee5725]

@@bad2bone firstly this crap popped up on my timeline. 2ndly, I’m not being a troll, I asked a question, genuinely mind you. If the church falls, are y’all going after Catholics are any other religion that doesn’t align with your viewpoints?

[@lorrainedewaal3838]

@@anthonymagee5725FREEDOM!!

[@bad2bone]

@@anthonymagee5725 that doesn't even make any sense??? You think all ex-Mormons are suddenly non -religious? That is a very myopic view of what it means to be deconstructing. and secondly, why would you 'go after' something you don't necessarily understand?

[@overthemoo]

This was possibly THE most well organized and perfectly structured video I’ve ever seen on YT. Any chance you’re also a tutor/educator? lol I’d legit hire you if I had to go back to school for a Master’s degree. (Psych major here w/ 4 weeks left in my final term!! Still not sure where and how I want to work in the field, so I plan on getting a job somewhere to pick the minds of other psychology professionals.)

[@mr_rn6549]

I agree with you

[@light181]

Thank you for your podcast. I am not Mormon and I have many Mormon friends. I’ve never understood a lot of things and you bring a lot of things to light in your stories that you share. I also think all the people that come on your Podcasts to be open and share their experiences. It takes a lot of bravery to do this. Jesse, Hildebrandt, and Adam God bless both of you. What you’re sharing was not easy, I see your trauma I see you. I pray for your peace and healing. And I’m wondering if Jody did not have video cameras in these rooms so that they could watch whoever they put in these safe rooms or whatever they called them.

[@Herewearenowentertainus]

I really wonder what’s going on behind the scenes in the upper echelon of the Mormon institution right now 😮

[@KaraLynnJack]

​@@Herewearenowentertainus I feel the same way.

[@nevereverforever0010-uf9su]

yup!! this is alll so disgusting n messed up... mhhm..sad. i hope they both get it!!!!!!!

[@bedazzlejuju]

Ridiculous religion😂😂😂

[@SallyJane-nh3zy]

Yes!! This is really what’s going on within the Mormon church, I am healing from all the terrible and extreme ways I grew up in and am so glad I am out of that place

[@DonnaSmith-ff2wu]

I had suspected many of the points you brought up, from the original issues with Chad that led to the connection with Jodi, to the separation from Kevin. Thanks for putting this all into context of how it all relates back to the fundamental teachings of the LDS church. I believe the church is as culpable as Jodi herself for the travesties inflicted on these families and especially the innocent children.

[@auzziemel8983]

Thank you John for also pointing out this isn't just a Mormon story about purity. I was in JW age's 2-5yrs old then Baptists. My mother would tell me of this often. My first relationship at 21yrs old and my then partner thought I was joking that I had never pleasured myself. I was scared to touch down there. That fear had been instilled in me, that that would have me go to hell. Thank you John.

[@auzziemel8983]

@taramcgavan7654 Very serious, I'm 40 and still get this guilty feeling about it.

[@emilydoria1683]

Thank you for taking the time to draw the connections to mormonism here, John! Its easy for many to see this situation and others like it (like the daybell vallow crimes) as isolated incidents. Though all these people are accountable for their own individual actions, mormonism enables these beliefs to sputter out of control. Scriptures like nephi killing laban even empower people in the church to take extreme and violent actions in the name of 'righteousness'. The fact that the church is silent on issues like these is very telling.

[@HeatherJohnson1111]

17:38 Cannot get out of my head “when the prophet has spoken, the thinking is done.” Immediately followed by POC not supposed to intermarry and not allowed to hold the priesthood until what, 1980? Followed by “how the hell do these ‘prophesies’ suddenly change when the world outgrows them? Especially when we were taught to be IN the world, not OF the world.” I get sick all over again.

[@twalk263]

The thing that sticks out for me is the way Ruby’s sister spoke. It was all “ me, me ,my house, me, me , me”. I found it gross, self absorbed, possibly slightly narcissistic and hugely tone deaf . There was nothing said about supporting the kids or saying they loved them. It was all about how this was affecting her, her family, her home, her KZbin dollars. She totally turned me off. No sympathy towards her at all.

[@julieprince5538]

I felt the same when I listened to both Sisters. It felt like they were defending their channels above all else. Trying not to judge the players, but this is a hard one

[@Truthinessify]

"we did everything we could". Which was not a fucking thing..

[@MaxineShaw-u8j]

She has commented about her heartbreak for her nieces and nephews and cried etc. To say they/she did nothing is a leap because you do not know that. Also the entire family has been legally told NOT to discuss the children.

[@_Nat_A_]

They aren’t allowed to speak about the kids per instructions of the judge. Its unimaginable the stress of having a sister in jail for felony abuse charges against nieces and nephew who you adore, but also that the whole world is watching and international news is reporting it, plus worrying about these nieces and nephew and their future. The truth is the KZbin channel is some of the Griffith family income. If they ever come back online, I doubt the children are online. They won’t cross that line. They may even help pass laws to protect children, so other children don’t suffer the same way.

[@_Nat_A_]

@@helenmchugh4632 I don’t know if that is something the judge will find pertinent to the case. Ruby and Kevin are adults who should know better.

[@debbie6787]

In the 70’s as a young woman we were taught it was better to die fighting than to “ALLOW” ourselves to be “gRaped”. They actually used the word ALLOW!

[@the_ravens_room]

Of course... instead of focusing on the r*pist and his unacceptable, diabolical behaviour.

[@saskiarachel7271]

Thank you for sharing all of this. It's such important context to the story that not many other people are bothering to look into

[@SilentThundersnow]

Wow, John. You're at your very best! 😮 I'm blown away by your ability to tell this story so precisely. You rip the band-aid off the problem, exposing the root of this problem that so many of us have suffered at the hands of the Mormon church. You are spot on! They groom children at a young age (they are going for 8yo now) to confess. We tried to change this horrific practice in 2018 with Sam Young. They ignored us. I went through a lesser form of this exact pattern from the people of the Mormon church in power. The referral to the psychologist, who happened to be my bishop, so I trusted him as he destroyed my self esteem, and I mean destroyed. It took decades to recover. I hope Ruby's victims are taken out of Mormon therapy, possibly out of Mormon homes, so they can actually see practitioners who will help them see that they did not do anything wrong, they aren't murderers in God's eyes, but ultimately they were victimized by the Mormon church, Jodi and Ruby, and Kevin by their extreme obedience to the church's doctrines. I couldn't look away from this podcast. What can I say, but bravo!👏👏👏👏

[@Star-gw2sj]

If you're in a relationship with a toxic abusive person, the only way to make things better is to get away from that person. When enough people start leaving the Mormon church or any other religions that are toxic and taking away childrens' innocence and have abusive doctrines, that's likely the only way the institution(s) would ever change. It's all about control to get power and peoples' money.

[@slconley]

Great video! Thank you so much for talking about this.

[@Nora-xk5tf]

John & Crew, Thank You. I am Catholic and I am appreciative of your mission.

[@michaelmyers1169]

Being someone who was abused by their parents and grew up mormon it’s absolutely infuriating hearing her say that her children are the ones who cause the abuse. It’s just like with my parents, they are so narcissistic that they just blame everything on the one who’s being abused instead of just looking in the mirror at their own actions and consequences.

[@LoraleeArmstrongNunley]

You John Dehlin are the best ever. Loving this!!

[@mormonstories]

Wow, thank you!

[@EleanorMclean-ns1yl]

Thank you so much for all you do. For creating awareness and for all the love and support you show all of us. This is so sad that the church has recommended Jodi as a family therapist all this time affecting so many families and couples. It is terrible and such a shame as they could of had someone who was professional and ethical all along, strengthening people in the church. I know this is diverting a lot from the issues raised in this podcast, I was born into the Mormon church, Got into an abusive relationship outside of church. Lost my membership rightly so after having my second child out of wedlock and shamed and told by family members that I committed a sin next to murder. I still feel my own shame to this day feel fear for my life Choices and still feel so much guilt even though I was re- baptised years later. Much love and appreciation to Mormon stories and to you and your family John. I’ve been learning so much since watching for the past year. It has been a lot to take in and iam struggling a lot at the moment with truths I wasn’t aware of. NeedIng support hopefully will have some soon. Take care.

[@tiffanycameron195]

Thank you so much for your patience in explaining so much to those of us who haven't had this type of experience. I also highly agree with you. This whole premise is part of the reason why I deny church and keep my walk and relationship with God personal. It's very real to me, that's all I need. But again. Thank you for you compassion, empathy, and wisdom shared

[@robinehunter3648]

John you are truly a gift to the world. Your commitment to help people understand these mind bending struggles that come with being involved with high demand religions like Mormonism is so admirable!! Thank you for everything you are doing. You sincerely deserve a medal. 💖👍💖

[@Cisco04574]

Thank you for putting more pieces together for us!! It is quite a sprawling puzzle with lots of hidden parts! Peace.

[@businesschealth]

Mormon church needs to be found guilty and be held accountable along with Jodi Hildebrandt, Lock her up!

[@SassySouthernSusan]

This is very informative. Thank you. It’s also disturbing the number of abuse cases coming to light in religious cults in recent months, that are sexually driven. Morman, Amish, Catholic, UPCI, IBLP, Jehovah Witness, etc. Our children need our prayers more than ever now 🙏🏻

[@kellizafer9828]

Thank you John Dehlin as well as all the people you have interviewed regarding this case. I have already become enlightened enough thanks to your channel that I find myself correcting (in my mind) a lot that is being said by news media. These points you have made today I have been "screaming" every time I hear various takes on the case! I will also point out that I almost always see in the comments sections of those other videos, comments from people who have clearly been informed by Jessi's and Adam's interviews that shed so much light on everything. ANYONE who would address this story on a news channel or youtube channel should first watch your Mormon Stories episodes on the case. Otherwise I believe they can only have an incomplete understanding of just how many layers there are to this case, how deep it goes, and how this is WAY more than a Ruby Franke case. I just so appreciate how valuable, educational, and how respectful your channel is. I can't donate but I definitely like every video and subscribed. I hope that that will help at least a teeny bit to support your invaluable work.

[@chelseacheeks2632]

This is such an important topic. Jodi is exactly what mormonism wants from it's members.

[@karenrock4471]

You are always good at explaining a myriad of topics, but THIS time you are SO right regarding the Ruby, Jodi, Kevin situation and how it connects with the Mormon church! PLZ keep getting the word out about how so many religions or groups of any kind can turn into a cult that reaches out far and wide thru families and causes mass destruction! Thx so very much for all you do.

[@1972nlw]

I think this story and all aspects surrounding this story is more important and crucial than what's going on with Tim Ballard and OUR. The relationship between the Corporation of the LDS Church and Jodie Hildebrandt and associates is undeniable. Tim Ballard just happened to be the "squirrel" the church needed to distract people from this story.

[@mormonstories]

I agree, but I think the Tim Ballard story is super important.

[@hellcatt488]

Growing up in Utah as non Mormon this information you've given has really opened my eyes as to what my friends/ peers were going through as we were teens. Most of my friends were LDS, I often attended church and young women's activities. I also participated in my best friends family home evenings. but even then I had never heard some of the church's teachings about sex being next to murder. I only knew that sex before marriage was considered sin. I learned this from the many documentaries and podcasts like yours. Thank you John.

[@Pkeats817]

I heard this in my religion growing up that sex before marriage was a sin, but it wasn’t taken seriously. I knew all of my aunts except one was pregnant when they got married. It was said as a deterrent, but then we were “allowed” to have sex with a steady boyfriend, as long as the was love and as long as there wasn’t promiscuity. In that way, our families allowed human nature to take over vs church teachings. It was a basic Christian religion, but not a cult. Today, I don’t believe in any church, because I wasn’t actually brainwashed. The intent in our religion was never that sick. More like a tradition. This stuff is cultish, cruel, greedy, and bizarre. Hopefully, this church dissolves and everyone gets help.

[@karsonboothe9116]

Thank you so much for this explanation John! I’ve been trying to explain these things to others outside of Utah and you said it better than I ever could. The scriptures and prophet quotes at the beginning especially drove these points home.

[@Sarah-jn6mr]

New to the channel and watched all of your many hours footage on anything to do with this and you are totally right! I still couldn’t quite put all together with Kevin’s role etc. Now it makes perfect sense why Kevin wasn’t around after what she did to Adam and how she tied Jessi up because she was obsessed with the idea that they had done sexual things when they hadn’t, like with Ruby’s children! Also about the wilderness camp it all makes sense you are so smart! I hope they courts have figured all this out.

[@Melody-st4df]

Thank you Sir for helping me understand this case so much better.

[@CheriParr]

Thanks!

[@smiles_14]

I AGREE! Glad you included quotes from LDS leaders. I'm hoping this story will be a game changer for the church.

[@rebeccacall7348]

I may actually watch General Conference in October just to see how much they backtrack on their teachings and attempt to cover their ass.

[@kathleenlinton8605]

This hit hard… When I was date raped at the age of 15 my Bishop told me this, “If you were the good girl I thought you were, you would have given your life before you allowed him to do that.”

[@ellesg7129]

How awful that you were blamed. It was not your fault! I hope you've been able to get some help and support to heal and find peace.

[@gointothedogs4634]

I'm deeply sorry this happened to you and the response your bishop gave you after. I hope you've been able to move past this. I'm not Mormon but lived in Salt Lake during my HS senior year through college and had a Mormon boyfriend. This explains an argument he and I had about sex. We weren't sexual but were talking about marriage, when he began grilling me on what I'd do if I was raped. I said I'd fight, but if it looked like that was gonna get me killed, I'd go along with the guy to survive, because it was just sex and I'd rather be alive. He was very upset and couldn't understand my viewpoint. After that I felt he really didn't care about me as much as he wanted me to be a virgin for him.

[@kathleenlinton8605]

@@ellesg7129 I appreciate your love! I actually never got counseling for that but I left the church over 20 years ago, just a few years after that horrible experience, and that definitely saved me. Interestingly enough I later found out that that same Bishop was having an affair with the Relief Society President during the same time he was my Bishop. 🙄

[@kathleenlinton8605]

@@gointothedogs4634 I left the church as soon as I graduated and that was 30 years ago… Time definitely has helped me heal! Interestingly enough, I later found out, that that same Bishop was having an affair with the Relief Society President while he presided over me… 🙄

[@kathleenlinton8605]

@taramcgavan7654 Absolutely!!!! I left the cult when I was 18 and that was 30 years ago! I wish that was my only horrifying experience with men in leadership positions within the LDS Church but it definitely wasn’t. That Cult is so disgusting in so many ways!

[@MKConnecticut]

I’ve been waiting for someone to explain publicly , especially for those of us who are not Mormon and never were. From MSP and other similar- topic podcasts, we KNOW the Church of LDS teachings were involved somehow with the Ruby Franke/Jodi Hildebrandt situation. Mainstream media has not really made the connection and that leaves out a BIG part of the equation - at least in explanation