The Cross Examiner Podcast

In the latest episode of the Cross Examiner podcast, we delve into the fascinating journey of Dr. John Dehlin, host of the Mormon Stories podcast. Dr. Dehlin, an ex-Mormon, has dedicated his career to exposing the truths behind Mormon practices and helping others navigate their own faith crises. This episode is a continuation of our in-depth conversation with him, exploring the psychological and social impacts of religious indoctrination, the rise of Christian nationalism, and the role of misinformation.
Dr. Dehlin's journey is both compelling and relatable. Raised as a sixth-generation Mormon, he was taught to obey and follow the church's teachings without question. However, cracks began to form in his faith as he encountered various inconsistencies and ethical concerns, particularly during his mission in Guatemala. His experiences there, coupled with the rise of the internet and the availability of information, led him to question the very foundations of his beliefs.
One of the most striking aspects of Dr. Dehlin's story is the concept of the "shelf." In the Mormon and post-Mormon world, individuals are encouraged to put doubts and questions on a metaphorical shelf, trusting that answers will come in time. For Dr. Dehlin, the shelf eventually became too heavy to bear, leading to a profound crisis of faith. This journey of questioning and seeking truth is something many can relate to, regardless of their religious background.
The episode also delves into the broader implications of religious indoctrination and the rise of secular support systems. Dr. Dehlin discusses the importance of organizations like Recovering from Religion and the Secular Therapy Project, which provide crucial support for individuals leaving high-demand religions. These organizations offer a safe space for people to explore their doubts and find a community that understands their struggles.
One of the most powerful moments in the episode is when Dr. Dehlin talks about the psychological impact of leaving a high-demand religion. He shares how many individuals experience anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts as they grapple with the loss of their faith and the subsequent social and familial fallout. This highlights the critical need for mental health support and resources for those undergoing such transitions.
Dr. Dehlin's work with the Mormon Stories podcast has not only helped countless individuals but also shed light on the broader human experience. As he aptly puts it, "The Mormon story is the human story." By sharing personal narratives, his podcast fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging listeners to see the common threads that connect us all.
For those interested in exploring these themes further, we highly recommend tuning into this episode. Dr. Dehlin's insights and experiences offer a valuable perspective on the intersection of religion, truth, and personal transformation. Whether you're grappling with your own faith or simply curious about the human condition, this episode is sure to resonate.
Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation. Listen to the full episode now and join us on this journey of discovery and understanding.

In the latest episode of the Cross Examiner podcast, we delve into a contentious legal battle that has significant implications for the separation of church and state in the United States. Our host, an attorney and atheist, interviews Sam Grover, Senior Counsel for Litigation at the Freedom from Religion Foundation (FFRF), to discuss their lawsuit challenging Louisiana's newly enacted law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom.
The episode opens with a strong statement from the host, highlighting the alarming rise of Christian nationalism and the misinformation fueling it. This sets the stage for a deep dive into the legal intricacies of the case. Sam Grover, who has been with FFRF for over a decade, provides a comprehensive overview of the coalition formed to challenge the law. This coalition includes heavyweights like the ACLU, ACLU of Louisiana, and Americans United for Separation of Church and State, along with the law firm Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, which is offering pro bono services.
Grover explains the mechanics of how such a coalition operates, from vetting potential plaintiffs to drafting the complaint. He emphasizes the overwhelming response from Louisiana residents who are concerned about the law's implications, highlighting that the coalition's plaintiffs include not just atheists and agnostics but also Christians and members of minority religions.
One of the most compelling parts of the episode is the discussion about the real-world implications for plaintiffs. Grover recounts the harassment and threats faced by individuals who stand up against such unconstitutional laws, emphasizing the bravery of the plaintiffs involved in this case.
The discussion then shifts to the legal arguments against the law. Grover breaks down the claims under the First Amendment's Establishment Clause and Free Exercise Clause. He argues that the Louisiana law is a blatant constitutional violation, citing the Supreme Court's precedent in Stone v. Graham, which struck down a similar law in Kentucky in 1980. Despite the Supreme Court's recent shift away from the Lemon test, which was used in Stone v. Graham, Grover remains confident that the coercive nature of the law will render it unconstitutional.
The episode also touches on the broader implications of the Supreme Court's recent decisions, particularly the move towards a "history and tradition" test for Establishment Clause cases. Grover expresses concern about this shift but remains hopeful that the clear lack of historical precedent for such a law in public schools will work in their favor.
The interview concludes with a call to action for listeners to support FFRF and other organizations fighting for the separation of church and state. Grover encourages listeners to become members, highlighting the importance of collective action in safeguarding constitutional rights.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in constitutional law, religious freedom, and the ongoing battle against Christian nationalism. Grover's insights provide a clear understanding of the stakes involved and the legal strategies being employed to protect the First Amendment.
Introduction 00:00:00
Interview with Sam Grover 00:02:00
Background on FFRF and Legal Career 00:04:00
Details of the Louisiana Case 00:10:00
Legal Strategies and Challenges 00:20:00
Historical Context and Legal Precedents 00:30:00
Potential Outcomes and Future Implications 00:45:00
Closing Remarks 00:58:00
For more information about the Freedom from Religion Foundation and to support their efforts, visit their website at https://www.ffrf.org.
To stay updated on future episodes and content, visit our website at https://www.thecrossexaminer.net.
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In this unscripted Rocket Docket episode of the Cross Examiner Podcast, we delve into the breaking news of President Biden dropping out of the race and its implications for the rise of Christian nationalism in the United States. Join us as we explore the potential outcomes, the role of Kamala Harris, and the future of the Democratic Party. Don't miss this critical analysis of a pivotal moment in American history!
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:00) Biden Drops Out: Immediate Reactions
(05:00) Kamala Harris: The Next in Line?
(10:00) The Financial War Chest
(15:00) Popularity and Polling
(20:00) The Debate Challenge
(25:00) Democratic Party Dynamics
(35:00) Historical Context and Future Implications
(45:00) Biden's Resignation Letter
(50:00) Trump's Response
(55:00) Christian Nationalism and Project 2025
(60:00) Conclusion

For the start of Season 2, I wanted to address homeopathy and, more generally, alternative medicine. In order to understand how insane it is that these substances are still marketed and purchased in large numbers, I set the stage by telling the story of a person hero of mine: a doctor who saved countless lives and, in the process, paved the way for the modern FDA.

In the latest episode of the Cross Examiner podcast, we delve into the fascinating journey of Dr. John Dehlin, host of the Mormon Stories podcast. Dr. Dehlin, an ex-Mormon, has dedicated his career to exposing the truths behind Mormon practices and helping others navigate their own faith crises. This episode is a continuation of our in-depth conversation with him, exploring the psychological and social impacts of religious indoctrination, the rise of Christian nationalism, and the role of misinformation.
Dr. Dehlin's journey is both compelling and relatable. Raised as a sixth-generation Mormon, he was taught to obey and follow the church's teachings without question. However, cracks began to form in his faith as he encountered various inconsistencies and ethical concerns, particularly during his mission in Guatemala. His experiences there, coupled with the rise of the internet and the availability of information, led him to question the very foundations of his beliefs.
One of the most striking aspects of Dr. Dehlin's story is the concept of the "shelf." In the Mormon and post-Mormon world, individuals are encouraged to put doubts and questions on a metaphorical shelf, trusting that answers will come in time. For Dr. Dehlin, the shelf eventually became too heavy to bear, leading to a profound crisis of faith. This journey of questioning and seeking truth is something many can relate to, regardless of their religious background.
The episode also delves into the broader implications of religious indoctrination and the rise of secular support systems. Dr. Dehlin discusses the importance of organizations like Recovering from Religion and the Secular Therapy Project, which provide crucial support for individuals leaving high-demand religions. These organizations offer a safe space for people to explore their doubts and find a community that understands their struggles.
One of the most powerful moments in the episode is when Dr. Dehlin talks about the psychological impact of leaving a high-demand religion. He shares how many individuals experience anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts as they grapple with the loss of their faith and the subsequent social and familial fallout. This highlights the critical need for mental health support and resources for those undergoing such transitions.
Dr. Dehlin's work with the Mormon Stories podcast has not only helped countless individuals but also shed light on the broader human experience. As he aptly puts it, "The Mormon story is the human story." By sharing personal narratives, his podcast fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging listeners to see the common threads that connect us all.
For those interested in exploring these themes further, we highly recommend tuning into this episode. Dr. Dehlin's insights and experiences offer a valuable perspective on the intersection of religion, truth, and personal transformation. Whether you're grappling with your own faith or simply curious about the human condition, this episode is sure to resonate.
Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation. Listen to the full episode now and join us on this journey of discovery and understanding.