Part 2: From Mormonism to Christ the Story of Cody Smith

In this powerful second part of the 'Cultish' podcast, Cody Smith recounts his harrowing journey from devout Mormonism through the New Age spiritual movement and addiction, ultimately finding redemption in Christ. After years of seeking spiritual fulfillment through meditation, psychedelics, and performance-based self-improvement, Cody hits rock bottom—experiencing a brutal seven-day detox, physical collapse, and spiritual warfare in the form of terrifying visions. His turning point comes through the persistent prayers of his Christian wife, who introduces him to the biblical Jesus. Reading the Gospel of Luke, particularly the Parable of the Sower, Cody realizes he had been spiritually enslaved by false systems—Mormonism, atheism, and New Age mysticism—all of which offered performance-based salvation. In contrast, he discovers the liberating truth of grace: salvation is not earned but received through faith in Christ alone. This transformation leads him to baptism in 2019, a renewed sense of purpose, and a calling to reach others trapped in the 'valley' of spiritual deception. The episode also explores broader cultural shifts in Utah, where the LDS Church’s influence is waning as younger generations leave, and a new openness to Christianity emerges—especially among former Mormons and seekers. Cody’s story stands as a testament to God’s grace in breaking cycles of addiction, trauma, and false religion.