Standard of Truth Podcast - Episode S5B1: "Search These Commandments and a New Theme Song"

Release Date: January 13, 2025
Hosts: Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat & Dr. Richard Leduc

Introduction and Lighthearted Banter

In this bonus episode of the Standard of Truth podcast, hosts Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat and Dr. Richard Leduc kick off with their trademark humor, setting a relaxed and engaging tone for the discussion ahead.

Dr. Dirkmaat [00:01]: "Welcome to the Standard of Truth podcast... Foreign Hi, welcome to a special bonus edition of the Standard of Truth podcast."

Dr. Leduc [01:08]: "Hello, Garrett. Good to. It's nice to have you back. Thanks for having me."

Their playful exchange not only entertains but also underscores the camaraderie between the hosts, making listeners feel welcome and part of the conversation.

Announcing "Search These Commandments" Series

Dr. Dirkmaat introduces an exciting development: a new podcast series titled "Search These Commandments." This initiative responds to increasing listener and missionary requests for in-depth coverage of the Doctrine and Covenants.

Dr. Dirkmaat [05:34]: "We've been working on another podcast for this year to kind of help as people are studying the Doctrine Covenants called Search these Commandments."

This series aims to delve deeply into the Doctrine and Covenants, providing historical context and comprehensive analysis of its sections. Unlike the main podcast, which focuses broadly on answering listeners' diverse questions, "Search These Commandments" will maintain a concentrated study on this sacred text.

Exploring Doctrine and Covenants Section 3

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Section 3 of the Doctrine and Covenants, identified as the first recorded revelation in the current dispensation. Dr. Dirkmaat elaborates on its importance and the challenges of integrating it into the podcast's broader narrative.

Dr. Leduc [05:12]: "There's a couple sections and so in order to get them all in, squeeze them all into one year, it's going to be difficult to do that in just the Sunday drop of the premium content."

Dr. Dirkmaat [07:17]: "Section three is our first recorded revelation that's recorded at the time... there's a lot of background to get to that revelation."

Understanding the historical and theological significance of Section 3 is crucial for listeners seeking to deepen their faith and knowledge. The hosts emphasize the necessity of providing comprehensive background to fully appreciate the revelation's context and implications.

Navigating Premium and Free Content

Addressing the podcast's structural changes, Dr. Dirkmaat explains the decision to offer premium content to sustain the show's production. This model allows the podcast to continue offering free episodes while providing exclusive, in-depth content for subscribers.

Dr. Dirkmaat [09:40]: "One of the premium podcasts we're doing this year... specially as a response to the missionary requests who get the podcast free, is we're going through the sections of the Doctrine and Covenants to provide the background for them."

The hosts acknowledge the community's support and the financial challenges of maintaining a high-quality podcast. By introducing premium subscriptions, they ensure the podcast's longevity and ability to serve its audience effectively.

Dr. Leduc [11:43]: "If so, on the premium episodes, there's a different logo on there, right?"

This clear distinction helps listeners easily identify premium content, enhancing user experience and transparency.

Introducing the New AI-Created Theme Song

A highlight of the episode is the unveiling of a new country music theme song crafted by a contributor named David, utilizing artificial intelligence. This creative addition aims to refresh the podcast's identity and engage listeners with a memorable tune.

Dr. Dirkmaat [04:13]: "David... created, through the magical gift of AI, a country music theme song for our podcast."

The hosts express their appreciation for David's contribution, humorously debating whether to adopt the new theme exclusively.

Dr. Dirkmaat [04:13]: "I have argued that we should drop our normal intro and this should be the only thing that we... should just play this song on a loop."

The collaborative effort reflects the podcast's dedication to innovation and enhancing the listener experience.

Balancing Content and Community Engagement

Throughout the episode, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc maintain a balance between informative content and engaging dialogue. They address listener expectations, discuss the integration of new series, and share personal insights, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

Dr. Dirkmaat [12:09]: "You think that I'm going to continue listening as you make this even more complex? Yes, that's exactly what we think, because that's what our model has always been."

This commitment to evolving while staying true to the podcast's mission ensures that both new and long-time listeners find value and connection in each episode.

Conclusion and Gratitude

As the episode winds down, the hosts extend heartfelt thanks to their listeners and subscribers, acknowledging the community's role in the podcast's success. They reiterate their dedication to providing valuable historical insights and spiritual guidance.

Dr. Dirkmaat [12:10]: "We want to thank everyone for listening. We really do thank everyone who tries to keep us on the air by subscribing."

Their sincere appreciation reinforces the podcast's mission to serve and uplift its audience, inviting everyone to continue the journey of faith and knowledge together.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Dirkmaat [07:17]: "Section three is our first recorded revelation that's recorded at the time... there's a lot of background to get to that revelation."

• Dr. Dirkmaat [05:34]: "We've been working on another podcast for this year to kind of help as people are studying the Doctrine Covenants called Search these Commandments."

• Dr. Leduc [11:43]: "If so, on the premium episodes, there's a different logo on there, right?"

• David [14:30]: (AI-Generated Theme Song)
  "Gather round let's take a ride through history's lens with faith as our guide
  Dr. Gary Dirkmaster leading the way through the past with wisdom every day..."

This episode marks a pivotal moment for the Standard of Truth podcast, expanding its offerings and enhancing its content to better serve the Latter-Day Saints community. With the introduction of the "Search These Commandments" series and a new theme song, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc continue to blend historical expertise with engaging presentation, fostering deeper understanding and increased faith among their listeners.