The Mormon Succession Crisis w/ John Turner - Brigham Young Podcast Pt. 4 | Ep. 2211
Podcast: Mormon Stories PodcastPublished On: Wed Oct 14 2026
Description: What happened to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after Joseph Smith was killed?In Part Four of our series with historical Dr. John Turner, we examine the complicated succession crisis that followed Joseph Smith’s martyrdom in 1844. Drawing from Turner’s book Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet, we explore the competing claims to leadership, the role of Joseph’s family, Sidney Rigdon’s challenge to the Twelve, and the ways Brigham Young gradually established himself as Joseph’s successor. Why wasn’t there a clear succession plan? Did Joseph intend for one of his sons to eventually lead the Church? Why didn’t Sidney Rigdon receive the Second Anointing? How much did the Smith family name matter to Brigham Young? And what really happened when Brigham was said to have miraculously taken on Joseph Smith’s “countenance”?We also discuss James Strang’s competing claim to succession, his opposition to polygamy, and why he was able to attract hundreds of Latter-day Saints. Along the way, we look at the so-called “Rigdonites,” allegations against the Twelve, Brigham’s prayer circles, failed prophecies, the pressure he felt to produce written revelations, and his efforts to complete the Nauvoo Temple before the Saints left Illinois. One particularly interesting theme emerges throughout the episode: Brigham Young did not initially see himself as Joseph Smith’s equal. His authority developed over time as he navigated competing leaders, external threats, internal divisions, and the enormous weight of Joseph Smith’s legacy. This episode is part of our ongoing series examining the life, leadership, theology, and historical legacy of Brigham Young through the scholarship of Dr. John Turner. ___________________Show NotesYouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals. Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor todayOne-time or recurring donationsPatreonVenmo PayPal Our Platforms:🌐Mormon Stories Blog 🎙️Patreon ✳️Spotify🍎Apple Podcasts🖼️Instagram 📱TikTok 🎮Discord Contact us:📧 MormonStories@gmail.com📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
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