Imam Rushdan Mujahid-Deen: Turning Grief Into Guidance

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Imam Tariq El-Amin welcomes Imam Rushdan Mujahid-Deen, the associate Imam at Masjid Bilal Islamic Center in Los Angeles and the first commissioned Muslim chaplain for the LAPD. Imam Mujahid-Deen shares his transformative journey of faith, inspired by the legacy of his mother and the teachings of Imam W. Deen Mohammed. He discusses his multifaceted roles as an Imam, hospital chaplain, and LAPD chaplain, articulating the emotional challenges, spiritual insights, and the importance of servant leadership. Imam Mujahid-Deen emphasizes the necessity of self-care for those in service positions and reflects on how his faith and personal experiences shape his approach to spiritual care and community leadership. He also touches on the upcoming community center at Masjid Bilal Islamic Center, designed to serve both Muslim and non-Muslim communities. The episode concludes with a call to support Bayan Islamic Graduate School and its initiatives.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

00:56 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:22 Introducing Imam Rushdan Mujahid-Deen

02:38 Imam Rushdan's Early Life and Family

05:18 Journey into Chaplaincy

09:38 Roles and Responsibilities of a Chaplain

16:46 Servant Leadership and Community Service

23:01 Personal Reflections and Lessons Learned

25:02 Reflecting on Family and Upbringing

26:40 Daughter's Journey in Africa

27:42 Experiences with Family in Africa

29:41 Challenges in Chaplaincy

34:55 Interfaith Chaplaincy and End-of-Life Care

38:10 Self-Care for Leaders

42:55 The Bayan Experience

46:46 Conclusion and Call to Action

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.

Bridging Theology, Science, and Philosophy with Dr. Ozgur Koca

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast presented by Bayan on Demand, host Imam Tariq El-Amin interviews Dr. Ozgur Koca, a faculty member at Bayan Islamic Graduate School. Dr. Koca shares his academic journey from physics and mathematics to philosophy, theology, and Islamic metaphysics. They delve into the intersection of Islamic thought and modern science, discussing causality, free will, divine justice, and miracles. Dr. Koca also talks about his upcoming books and reflects on the importance of interdisciplinary learning in understanding divine presence and fostering spiritual growth.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

00:56 Meet Your Host: Imam Tariq El-Amin

01:22 Introducing Dr. Ozgur Koca

02:00 Dr. Koca's Academic Journey

04:15 Translating Classical Islamic Texts

05:13 The Polymath Tradition in Islam

07:33 Audience and Purpose of Dr. Koca's Work

09:19 Exploring Causality in Islamic Thought

15:21 Mu'tazilite and Ash'arite Views on Causality

24:25 Participatory Accounts of Causality

27:20 Divine Freedom and Human Agency

28:28 Contemporary Discussions on Religion and Science

29:39 Reconciling Divine and Natural Causality

30:44 Criteria for a Theory of Causality

32:22 Islamic Thought on Miracles

33:59 Mu'tazilite and Ash'arite Perspectives

38:29 Participatory Causality and Miracles

43:13 Spiritual Implications of Causality

50:06 Bayan Islamic Graduate School Experience

53:51 Future Projects and Final Thoughts

Islam, Causality, and Science

https://a.co/d/2WPIaD5

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.

Scholar, Shepherd, and Seed Sower: Dr. Safiyyah Kai El-Amin’s Vision for Faith, Food, and Liberation

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, hosted by Imam Tariq El-Amin and brought to you by Bayan on Demand, Dr. Safiyyah Kai El-Amin joins the conversation. Dr. El-Amin is an esteemed American Muslim scholar, interfaith advocate, certified chaplain, and author who currently serves at Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee. The episode delves into Dr. El-Amin's unique upbringing in a multi-faith family and her academic journey, which ultimately led to her conversion to Islam. She discusses her dedication to bridging faith communities, resilience through collective action, and how her work is deeply influenced by her late mother's values of unity and racial uplift. Dr. El-Amin also highlights her practical work with the SEED program, combining education, social, and environmental justice, including a focus on community gardening and sustainability. This insightful episode touches on themes of socialization, resilience, interfaith initiatives, and the holistic influence of Islamic education on community service and activism.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

01:03 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:33 Meet Dr. Safiyyah Kai El-Amin

02:40 Dr. El-Amin's Unique Upbringing

05:11 Influence of Family and Early Experiences

06:28 Journey to Islam

07:19 Impact of Istanbul Experience

13:04 Challenges and Realizations

25:34 Influence of Dr. El-Amin's Mother

31:46 A Mother's Wisdom and Reflections on Faith

32:55 The Intersection of Faith and Education

35:59 Interfaith Initiatives in Higher Education

37:14 The SEED Program and Community Gardening

38:05 Homesteading and Community Engagement

43:27 Deconstructing Pastoral Theology

45:42 Empowering Women Through Resilience Programs

50:37 Reflections on Academic and Spiritual Growth

57:25 Supporting Muslim Contributions and Education

https://theseedprogrambykai.com/about/

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, Imam Tariq El-Amin interviews Dr. Kameelah Mu'min Oseguera, the founding executive director of the Muslim Wellness Foundation and an assistant professor of Psychology and Muslim studies at Chicago Theological Seminary. They discuss her formative experiences, particularly her upbringing in Brooklyn's Masjid al-Taqwa community and her relationships with her late mentor Dr. Deborah Majeed. Dr. Kameelah shares insights into her role as a chaplain at the University of Pennsylvania, highlighting the challenges and biases she faced as a Black female leader. She also explains the objectives and achievements of the Muslim Wellness Foundation and the Black Muslim Psychology Conference. The conversation delves into her research on Black Christian views of American Muslims and the importance of spiritual diversity. Lastly, Dr. Kameelah talks about her courses at Bayan Islamic Graduate School, emphasizing the necessity of self-care and the integration of anti-racism in spiritual practice.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

00:55 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:12 Introducing Dr. Kameelah Mu'min Oseguera

02:05 Formative Experiences and Early Influences

07:27 The Role of a Chaplain

21:24 Challenges and Bias in Leadership

24:01 Reflections on Gender and Power in Muslim Communities

26:29 Balancing Multiple Roles

26:48 Founding of the Muslim Wellness Foundation

27:55 Addressing Mental Health Stigma in the Muslim Community

28:33 The Black Muslim Psychology Conference

30:27 Establishing the Omar Ibn Said Institute

33:26 Exploring Black Christian Views of American Muslims

42:48 Day of Learning Event for Black Christians

45:15 Courses at Bayan Islamic Graduate School

51:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.

Faith, Redemption, and Leadership: The Journey of Ustadh Abdul Muhaymin Priester

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast presented by Bayan on Demand, host Imam Tariq El-Amin welcomes Ustadh Abdul Muhaymin Priester, a respected theologian, community leader, and senior instructor at Tayba Foundation. The conversation delves into Ustadh Priester's transformation from a tumultuous past in street life to embracing Islam and dedicating his life to service and education. Key themes include the profound impact of mentorship, the significance of prayer and Quranic engagement, and the role of Tayba Foundation in shaping his educational journey. Ustadh Priester also touches on the vision behind EP3 Consulting and his experiences with Bayan Islamic Graduate School, highlighting the importance of sustained community support and self-sufficiency in non-profit work. The episode underscores the value of resilience, redemption, and leadership rooted in Islamic principles.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

01:03 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:26 Meet Ustadh Abdul Muhaymin Priester III

02:20 A Journey of Influence and Reflection

03:56 The Impact of Imam Jamil

06:32 Embracing Islam and Pursuing Knowledge

08:30 Challenges and Triumphs in Education

17:52 Leadership and Community Service

25:18 The Role of Tayba Foundation

32:35 Personal Reflections and Redemption

33:51 Reflections on Generation X and Personal Struggles

34:35 Influence of Early Life and Family Dynamics

35:35 Youth Involvement in Street Life

37:45 Loyalty and Brotherhood in Islam

40:10 The African American Muslim Experience

47:51 Advice for New and Struggling Muslims

54:28 EP Three Consulting: Vision and Goals

58:08 Experiences with Bayan Islamic Graduate School

01:02:19 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.

Modern Challenges, Timeless Faith: Imam Ishaq Majeed's Perspective

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Imam Tariq El-Amin speaks with Imam Ishaq Majeed, a second-generation Muslim from Atlanta. The discussion covers a variety of topics, including Imam Ishaq's upbringing in a close-knit Muslim community, his extensive career in cybersecurity with a focus on empowering minorities, and his experiences traveling and engaging with Muslim communities worldwide. They also delve into the importance of a physical community in Islam, the role of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as a model for Muslims, and the significance of the Fayda Tijanniya. Imam Ishaq introduces the Fayda App, a digital platform offering books, audio, and lessons on Islam for everyone. Additionally, they talk about a viral social media clip of Imam Ishaq reciting the opening chapter of the Quran at a presidential inauguration event. The episode concludes with a call to support Bayan Islamic Graduate School and the Muhammad Ali Scholarship.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

00:57 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:10 Guest Introduction: Imam Ishaq Majeed

02:30 Formative Memories and Early Influences

03:41 Community and Upbringing

07:47 The Importance of Physical Community

10:58 Teaching and Spreading Islam

19:20 Travel Experiences and Cultural Observations

23:11 Challenges of Practicing Islam in Western Society

24:06 Personal Commitment and Responsibility in Faith

25:13 Community Support and Spiritual Guidance

27:57 The Example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

31:07 Martial Arts and Spiritual Discipline

31:49 Reciting Quran at the Presidential Inauguration

34:47 Introduction to Fayda Tijanniya

38:25 The Bayan Experience

41:18 Closing Remarks and Future Endeavors

Links from our guest:

https://thenationsmosque.org/donations/capital-campaign/

The Fayda App for iphone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/fayda-digital/id6450007889

for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.faydadigital&pli=1

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.

Exploring Resilience and the Forgotten Sunnah of Step-Parenting with Sadia Jalili

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, Imam Tariq El-Amin welcomes Sadia Jalili, a licensed marriage and family therapist who has dedicated 18 years to supporting Houston's Muslim community. Sadia shares her journey and experiences, highlighting her educational background, her work with Muslims in therapy, and the challenges faced in dealing with varying levels of religiosity and resistance to therapy. She discusses her unique research on the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ role as a stepfather and her efforts in developing a framework for blended families. Additionally, Sadia emphasizes the importance of resilience, emotional intelligence, and maintaining a faith-grounded approach in therapy. Follow her insights on social media through 'Muslim Bliss' where she shares relationship advice and psychoeducation.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

00:52 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:32 Meet Sadia Jalili: A Dedicated Therapist

02:33 Sadia's Journey into Therapy

07:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Therapy

09:36 Navigating Faith and Therapy

14:57 Therapy in the Muslim Community

22:35 Balancing Professional and Personal Life

27:43 Navigating Parenting Challenges

28:32 The Power of Pausing

29:13 Reflecting on Parenting Mistakes

30:38 Introducing the Thesis

31:52 Prophetic Guidance on Blended Families

35:04 Turning Research into a Book

36:18 Introducing Muslim Bliss

38:25 Self-Worth and Divine Love

42:07 Resilience and Relationships

50:36 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Connect with Us:

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.

Host: Imam Tariq El-Amin

Guest: Sister Jacqueline "Jackie" Crutchley

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, hosted by Imam Tariq Al Amin, the conversation delves into the robust educational offerings of Bayan on Demand, a platform providing Islamic knowledge for a nominal fee. The discussion highlights the educational journeys of various community leaders, with a particular focus on Sister Jacqueline 'Jackie' Crutchley—a Jersey-born descendant of a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Sister Jackie discusses her Catholic upbringing, her eventual conversion to Islam, and her roles in various organizations, including Embrace and Women International Leaders of Philadelphia. She emphasizes leadership based on servant leadership principles and stresses the importance of inclusivity and equality within the Muslim community. Her academic and professional insights span from anti-racism studies to practical community building. The episode concludes with her reflections on fulfilling responsibilities through education and service, and her efforts in creating a supportive environment for converts and the broader Muslim community.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

00:49 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:27 Meet Sister Jacqueline Jackie Crutchley

03:01 Jackie's Background and Early Life

04:13 Journey to Islam and Academic Pursuits

05:26 Understanding Infrahumanization

06:39 Islam and Social Justice

08:05 Challenges and Reflections on Community

11:47 Leadership and Identity in the Muslim Community

19:16 Converts and Cultural Expectations

27:48 Introduction to Leadership and Empowerment

28:07 The Role of Women in Leadership

28:36 Empowering Others and Personal Experiences

30:08 BAYAN Student Committee and Its Impact

32:01 Highlighting Inspirational Muslim Women

34:16 Personal Ancestry and Responsibility

39:36 Journey to Islam and Family Reactions

49:07 Challenges and Support for Converts

52:19 Contributions to the Muslim Community

Connect with Us:

bayanonline.org

Subscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7

Donate to the Muhammad Ali Scholarship at https://pages.donately.com/bayan/campaign/2028-endowment-campaign/donate

Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.