aaaAAAaaa kicks off this week’s episode with a trademark blend of tangents, sarcasm, and chaotic banter that would make even the most seasoned conversation derailment artist proud. The hosts riff on everything from self-made bad ads to Utah's bizarre trend of hiring Jesus lookalikes for family photos. Things crescendo with the introduction of this episode’s cocktail, the aptly named "Stirred Up Unto Anger," a minty lime concoction served with a side of grocery store adventures and lime rickey trauma.
If you’ve ever wondered what Die Hard and While You Were Sleeping have in common with Doctrine and Covenants 63, this intro will probably still not answer that. But it’s a chaotic good time nonetheless.
Scriptures: [00:13:22]
Abish takes the reins to dissect D&C 63, a section filled with Joseph Smith’s fiery warnings, miracles gone awry, and tithe-increasing schemes disguised as eternal marriage counsel. But the real showstopper is her retelling of a modern general authority's hymn-singing power trip. Using his "special keys," this leader attempted to spiritually enhance a hymn—only to rage when the congregation didn’t deliver. The cardinal sin? Standing to sing without his permission. (Blasphemous gusto strikes again!)
The hosts pitch their rebellious plan: attend his next fireside in “Free Susan” shirts, a nod to the TikTok movement sympathizing with the leader’s wife, who endures his clipboard-slamming tyranny. It’s irreverent, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt as the hosts encourage Susan—and anyone under the thumb of authority—to stand up, literally and figuratively.
Church Teachings: [00:42:41]
Armed with sarcasm and Aquavit, the hosts delve into a Sunday school lesson on faith, purity, and preparation for the Second Coming. The church’s doctrine that "faith precedes signs" gets compared to spiritual foreplay, while purity culture is skewered for its harmful, absurd double standards. Personal anecdotes punctuate the critiques, highlighting how these teachings manifest in hilariously awkward yet deeply damaging ways.
From blind faith to fiery damnation, nothing escapes the group’s sharp wit, leaving listeners both laughing and cringing in recognition.
History: [01:08:17]
Abigail takes us on a historical deep dive into the concept of hell, starting with Norse mythology’s icy underworld (perfect for those who die dishonorably, like shameful things like old age or sickness). The tour continues with biblical Sheol and Gehenna, ancient Greek Tartarus, and Dante’s nine circles of hell—where treachery is punished with the ultimate icy reception.
The hosts pepper the discussion with irreverent asides, likening hell to Costco traffic, spelunking mishaps, and The Good Place's comedic philosophy lessons. A tangent on Mormon "outer darkness" ties everything back to the faith's unique spin on damnation, complete with Brigham Young’s historical controversies. It’s a fiery mix of historical insight, pop culture, and sharp critiques of moral fearmongering.
With its blend of sarcasm, wordplay, and thoughtful analysis, this episode delivers a devilishly good time while throwing a few hymnal-sized punches at the powers that be.
Follow us on Insta @gr8_and_spacious, Twitter @gr8andspacious, and Reddit u/gr8_and_spacious for behind-the-scenes shenanigans, hilarious memes, and maybe even a sneak peek at our next episode..
If you've got a burning question, a hilarious anecdote, or just want to say hi, shoot us an epistle at greatandspaciouspod@gmail.com.
And don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review of our podcast!
