The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has initiated legal proceedings against the “Mormon Stories” podcast, alleging trademark and copyright infringement. The lawsuit contends that the podcast’s use of the term “Mormon,” along with certain design elements, may lead audiences to mistakenly believe it is affiliated with or endorsed by the Church.
In November 2025, the Church privately contacted the Open Stories Foundation, which produces the podcast, to address concerns about potential public confusion regarding the podcast’s branding. Efforts to resolve the matter amicably included mediation and proposals such as adding a disclaimer clarifying the podcast’s independence. However, these attempts did not result in a resolution, leading the Church to file a complaint in federal court to protect its intellectual property. ([newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org](https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/getting-it-right-clarifying-trademark-branding-concerns?utm_source=openai))
John Dehlin, the host of “Mormon Stories,” was excommunicated from the Church in 2015 for apostasy. He argues that this fact, along with the Church’s public statements, should make it clear to listeners that the podcast is not affiliated with the Church. Dehlin also notes that he has made changes to the podcast’s branding, including modifying the logo and removing Church-related images, to address these concerns. ([the-independent.com](https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/lds-sues-mormon-podcast-b2962138.html?utm_source=openai))
The Church emphasizes that the lawsuit is not about the content or viewpoints expressed by the podcast but focuses solely on the use of Church-protected names and design elements that could cause confusion about the podcast’s affiliation. This action is part of the Church’s broader efforts to ensure that official Church materials are clearly distinguishable from independent commentary. ([newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org](https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/getting-it-right-clarifying-trademark-branding-concerns?utm_source=openai))
This case highlights the challenges organizations face in protecting their intellectual property while balancing issues of free expression and public perception. The outcome may have implications for how religious institutions manage their branding in the digital age.