John Dehlin Challenges LDS Church Lawsuit Over Use of 'Mormon' in Podcast Branding

John Dehlin, the host of the widely followed 'Mormon Stories' podcast, is actively contesting a lawsuit filed against him by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The church alleges that Dehlin’s use of the word “Mormon” in his podcast’s branding causes confusion regarding affiliation with the church.

Dehlin, who has a history of openly criticizing the LDS Church, submitted his own court filing in response to the lawsuit. In his filing, he contends that the church does not have exclusive ownership over the term “Mormon.” He argues that the fallout from this legal dispute extends far beyond the scope of his podcast, touching on broader issues of language and religious identity.

The lawsuit highlights the tension between the LDS Church’s efforts to control the use of the term “Mormon” and individuals or entities that use the word in various contexts. Dehlin’s podcast has been a significant platform for discussing Mormon culture, faith, and criticism, making the branding dispute particularly notable.

The church’s legal action claims that the use of “Mormon” in the podcast’s title misleads listeners into believing there is an official connection or endorsement by the LDS Church. Dehlin’s counterargument challenges this assertion, emphasizing the term’s widespread use and cultural significance beyond the church’s control.

This dispute arrives amid the LDS Church’s broader efforts to manage its public image and the use of its associated terms. The outcome of this case could have implications for how religious terms are protected under trademark law and the extent to which religious organizations can restrict their use.

Dehlin’s filing underscores the importance of free expression and the public’s right to use culturally significant terms. It also raises questions about the balance between trademark protections and First Amendment rights in religious contexts.

As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by legal experts, religious communities, and media entities concerned with intellectual property rights and religious freedom.

Tickets for the 65th season of an unrelated event running from June 16 through October 4, 2026, have also been announced, though this is separate from the ongoing legal matter.