Joseph Smith’s Polygamy with Jeremy Hoop

Joseph Smith’s Polygamy with Jeremy Hoop

Author: Mormon Discussion Inc July 3, 2026 Duration: 3:05:16

For decades, the historical consensus has been that Joseph Smith introduced and practiced plural marriage in Nauvoo. But a small group of researchers has argued for a very different conclusion: that Joseph Smith was not the founder of Mormon polygamy and that the historical evidence has been misunderstood. In this episode of Mormonism Live, we sit down with researcher Jeremy Hoop to explore that perspective in depth. Jeremy has spent years examining William Clayton’s journals, the Nauvoo land deeds, the Augusta Cobb letters, the British Mission, and many other historical sources. He explains why he believes the standard narrative deserves to be reconsidered and walks us through the evidence that has led him to his conclusions. Whether you agree with Jeremy or not, this conversation is an opportunity to hear one of the leading voices of the Joseph Smith “non-polygamist” position explain his research in his own words.

Our goal is to better understand the arguments, the historical documents, and the reasoning behind this alternative interpretation of early Mormon history. As always, we invite you to examine the evidence, think critically, and reach your own conclusions.

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There's a conversation happening about the Latter-day Saint experience from a perspective you might not find in a Sunday school manual. Mormonism Live!-Radio Free Mormon, from Mormon Discussion Inc, operates like a weekly dispatch from within a complex faith tradition, examining its history, doctrines, and cultural impact with a critical yet often personal eye. Each episode feels like a deep dive into the topics that members and former members grapple with, from historical analysis to current events within the community. The hosts and their guests bring a blend of scholarly research and lived experience to the table, creating discussions that are as informative as they are provocative. Tuning into this podcast means hearing unfiltered dialogue about the realities and challenges of Mormonism, presented by those who know it intimately. It’s for anyone who wants to look beyond the surface, whether they are questioning, believing, or simply curious about one of the most distinctive American religious movements. The tone is direct and the content is unflinching, making it a unique voice in the spheres of religion and spirituality.
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