The American Muslim Podcast

Brother Saeed Purcell: The Muslim HighlanderIn this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Iman Tariq El-Amin sits down with Brother Saeed Purcell, an esteemed educator and convert with over 30 years of experience in Islamic teaching and leadership. The conversation delves deep into Brother Saeed's spiritual journey, from his Christian upbringing through various faith explorations to ultimately embracing Islam. Brother Saeed shares the challenges and growth he experienced along the way, including his battles with personal and professional obstacles, and his continuous strive for knowledge and self-improvement. The episode also touches on the impact of cultural influences, the significance of genuine Dawa, and the importance of personal authenticity in leadership. Alongside discussing his latest projects and social media presence, Brother Saeed offers valuable insights into the transformative power of faith and perseverance.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:51 Introducing Brother Saeed Purcell01:26 Brother Saeed's Journey to Islam01:42 The Halal Highway Podcast01:53 Experiences and Reflections on Faith02:24 Challenges and Triumphs in the Journey07:30 Teaching and Leadership Roles14:47 The Importance of Knowledge and Character34:39 The Role of Dawa in Islam44:46 Understanding the Importance of Mohammed45:13 Challenges in Embracing Ham45:36 The Role of Dawa in Transformation47:06 Nation of Islam's Impact on Individuals49:12 Social Justice and Service in Islam50:31 The Concept of Volunteering and Service51:37 Personal Reflections and Struggles55:02 Brother Saeed Consulting: Origins and Goals59:22 Embracing Unique Identities01:00:35 Living with a Rare Metabolic Condition01:08:06 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges01:10:10 Final Reflections and Gratitude🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.📲 Stay connected with us on Instagram and FacebookFollow @TheAmericanMuslimPodcast for episode updates, highlights, and community reflections.Follow host @ImamTariqElAmin for behind-the-scenes content, reflections, and more.

Naazish Yarkhan: Overcoming Fear Through Storytelling, Faith, and CommunityIn this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, Imam Tariq El-Amin talks with Naazish YarKhan, founder of the Writer Studio Us. Naazish shares her journey from a supportive family background where trying new things was encouraged, to becoming a successful writer, educator, and branding consultant. She discusses the influence of formative experiences and mentors, the importance of community and overcoming fears, and insights into branding and volunteerism. Additionally, she emphasizes the significance of continuous learning in a rapidly changing technological landscape and the essence of human connection in both personal and professional realms.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:11 Formative Experiences and Early Influences03:45 Career Beginnings and Breakthroughs05:55 Overcoming Fears and Embracing Challenges11:28 The Importance of Community and Support13:54 Lessons from Hajj and Community Responsibility19:49 Family Influence and Social Justice24:36 Helping Students Find Their Voice29:24 From Niche to Global Leader30:27 Rebranding for Broader Appeal31:59 Expanding Halal Beyond Food36:02 Innovative Distribution Strategies37:19 Building Community Engagement47:47 Balancing Work and Personal Boundaries52:11 The Importance of Continuous Learning55:56 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.📲 Stay connected with us on Instagram and FacebookFollow @TheAmericanMuslimPodcast for episode updates, highlights, and community reflections.Follow host @ImamTariqElAmin for behind-the-scenes content, reflections, and more.

Guest: Maryum “May May” AliHost: Imam Tariq I. El-AminPresented by: BAYAN On DemandEpisode Highlights:[02:00] Maryum’s 15+ years in youth development and gang prevention in South Los Angeles[04:00] The tragedy that redirected her college major and professional path[07:00] Real-time stories of life-saving mentorship and trust-building in communities[11:00] The roots of her creative spirit—and how stand-up comedy offered both a challenge and a stage[15:00] Performing with legends like Eddie Murphy, Robin Harris, and Chris Rock[17:00] Why she left the entertainment industry despite early success[20:00] The turning point: writing and performing Float, her one-woman stage show[34:00] Behind the scenes: How Float was developed, funded, and produced[42:00] The discipline and planning required to do meaningful solo work[49:00] Her advice to aspiring artists and creatives in Muslim spaces[54:00] Reflections on faith, identity, process, and public responsibility[56:00] What Maryum learned about humanity from watching her father, Muhammad AliKey Themes:Faith and creativity • Community leadership • Black Muslim womanhood • Entertainment and ethics • Artistic process • Dawa through presence • Legacy of Muhammad AliCover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms.📲 Stay connected with us on Instagram and FacebookFollow @TheAmericanMuslimPodcast for episode updates, highlights, and community reflections.Follow host @ImamTariqElAmin for behind-the-scenes content, reflections, and more.

🎙️ The American Muslim PodcastEpisode Title: “Preacher Moss on Comedy, Identity & Jazz (Part 2)”Guest: Preacher MossHost: Imam Tariq I. El-AminPresented by: BAYAN On Demand🎧 Episode Summary:In Part 2 of this illuminating conversation, Imam Tariq sits down once again with legendary comedian and cultural truth-teller Preacher Moss to unpack the layered role of humor, history, and responsibility in the lives of African American Muslims. From the quiet strength of the community elders to the lessons learned through teaching “severely emotionally disturbed” students, Preacher Moss reveals how comedy isn’t just performance—it’s pedagogy.Together, they reflect on:The wisdom of Imam Warith Deen Mohammed and being called to be a "master teacher" rather than just a comedianThe spiritual depth behind the Allah Made Me Funny tour and how it rewired communitiesJazz as metaphor, structure, and survivalHow Muslim identity and Black struggle remain intertwined—and why this legacy mattersThe challenges and joy of crafting creative resistance in a soundbite cultureThe birth and mission of The Shout Out ShowWhat it means to live as a Muslim in public with purpose and integrityThis episode is a symphony of memory, laughter, and deep insight—a blueprint for how to be Black, Muslim, creative, and alive in America.🔊 Notable Quotes:“The classroom is my comedy. And if you can reach the lowest common denominator and lift that up—you lift everybody up.” — Preacher Moss“We didn’t walk to our Shahadah. We ran to it.”“Muslim identity without public witness is a missed opportunity for transformation.”📺 Watch Preacher Moss on:📚 Learn more:Presented by BAYAN On Demand — Courses in Islamic theology, nonprofit leadership, Islamic history, and more: www.BayanOnline.org

Habeeb Quadri: Your Success is Our SuccessIn this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, hosted by Imam Tariq El-Amin and presented by Bayan on Demand, the guest is Habib Kadri, an award-winning educator, author, youth advocate, superintendent of MCC Academy, and part-time faculty at Harvard University. Kadri discusses his journey into education, inspired by his parents and significant figures like Mr. Earl and Dr. Gazda. He reflects on his leadership experiences, challenges in Islamic education, the importance of instilling confidence and good character in students, and his vision for education. He emphasizes transformational learning, priority management, and the significance of community collaboration. Kadri also talks about his consulting work aimed at enhancing educational practices globally and shares insights on maintaining balance and sincerity in personal and professional life.00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand00:57 Meet the Host and Guest01:45 Early Inspirations in Education04:58 High School and Basketball Journey08:59 Leadership and Community Involvement13:30 Path to Educational Leadership16:11 Vision for Education20:22 Challenges in Islamic Schools26:36 Transformative Power of Education29:17 Learning from Elite Institutions32:43 The Potential of Islamic Schools33:33 The Role of Humility in Leadership37:14 Balancing Faith and Leadership38:04 Time Management vs. Priority Management42:46 Founding High Quality Educational Consulting44:51 Addressing Youth Challenges and Islamic Studies48:15 The Importance of Asking Questions54:01 Receiving the ISNA Lifetime Educational Achievement Award01:00:16 Final Reflections and Gratitudebayanonline.orgSubscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7Donate 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.📲 Stay connected with us on Instagram and FacebookFollow @TheAmericanMuslimPodcast for episode updates, highlights, and community reflections.Follow host @ImamTariqElAmin for behind-the-scenes content, reflections, and more.

Malik Shaw, Executive Director of Midtown Mosque: At His Best When ServingIn this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Imam Tariq El-Amin speaks with Brother Malik Shaw, the Executive Director of Midtown Mosque in Memphis. The discussion covers a broad range of topics including the history and mission of Midtown Mosque, the importance of good company and community building, as well as the transformative power of faith and service. Brother Malik shares personal stories and formative experiences that led to his dedication to community work, highlighting the sacrifices and joys of serving in a neighborhood with historical significance and contemporary challenges. Key themes include resilience, the impact of education and faith on community development, and the importance of investing in communal spaces to foster economic and social well-being.00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand00:56 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast01:05 Meet Brother Malik Shaw01:38 Formative Experiences and Lessons04:20 Journey into Education06:37 Impact of Growing Up in Detroit09:16 Connecting Education, Faith, and Economics11:31 Starting Midtown Mosque14:40 Community Initiatives and Challenges26:14 Creating Community Spaces26:48 Addressing Loneliness and Its Impact29:14 Sacrifices and Gains in Community Work33:22 Family Dynamics and Leadership38:22 The Importance of Smiling and Gratitude42:39 Lessons in Faithfulness and Service48:45 Supporting Midtown Mosque and Final Thoughtshttps://midtownmosque.org/donate-now/bayanonline.orgSubscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7Donate 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 KocaIn 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 Demand00:56 Meet Your Host: Imam Tariq El-Amin01:22 Introducing Dr. Ozgur Koca02:00 Dr. Koca's Academic Journey04:15 Translating Classical Islamic Texts05:13 The Polymath Tradition in Islam07:33 Audience and Purpose of Dr. Koca's Work09:19 Exploring Causality in Islamic Thought15:21 Mu'tazilite and Ash'arite Views on Causality24:25 Participatory Accounts of Causality27:20 Divine Freedom and Human Agency28:28 Contemporary Discussions on Religion and Science29:39 Reconciling Divine and Natural Causality30:44 Criteria for a Theory of Causality32:22 Islamic Thought on Miracles33:59 Mu'tazilite and Ash'arite Perspectives38:29 Participatory Causality and Miracles43:13 Spiritual Implications of Causality50:06 Bayan Islamic Graduate School Experience53:51 Future Projects and Final ThoughtsIslam, Causality, and Sciencehttps://a.co/d/2WPIaD5bayanonline.orgSubscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7Donate 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.

Leadership & Wellness with Dr. Kameelah: Faith, Healing & CommunityIn 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 Demand00:55 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast01:12 Introducing Dr. Kameelah Mu'min Oseguera02:05 Formative Experiences and Early Influences07:27 The Role of a Chaplain21:24 Challenges and Bias in Leadership24:01 Reflections on Gender and Power in Muslim Communities26:29 Balancing Multiple Roles26:48 Founding of the Muslim Wellness Foundation27:55 Addressing Mental Health Stigma in the Muslim Community28:33 The Black Muslim Psychology Conference30:27 Establishing the Omar Ibn Said Institute33:26 Exploring Black Christian Views of American Muslims42:48 Day of Learning Event for Black Christians45:15 Courses at Bayan Islamic Graduate School51:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action bayanonline.orgSubscribe to Bayan on demand at https://shorturl.at/wlQl7Donate 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.