

Straight White American Jesus
Bradley Onishi + Daniel Miller
An in-depth examination of the culture and politics of Christian Nationalism and Evangelicalism by two ex-evangelical ministers-turned-religion professors. If you have ever wondered what social and historical forces led white evangelicals to usher Donald Trump into the White House this is the show for you. As former insiders and critical scholars of religion, Dan Miller and Bradley Onishi have a unique perspective on the Religious Right. Guests have included Chrissy Stroop, R. Marie Griffith, Janelle Wong, Randall Balmer, Katherine Stewart, and many others.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 19, 2025 • 15min
BONUS Episode: Hitler Destroyed Democracy in Months. Will Trump Follow His Playbook?
In a captivating discussion, the hosts explore the alarming parallels between Hitler's rapid dismantling of democracy and contemporary political dynamics, particularly regarding Trump. They unpack how democratic language can be co-opted for authoritarianism, presenting a grave warning about our political future. Light-heartedly, they debate whether Die Hard qualifies as a Christmas movie and criticize the rise of electric bikes. This mix of humor and serious reflection creates a thought-provoking conversation about the state of democracy.

5 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 1h 8min
Weekly Roundup: Trump's Cabinet Picks Are Designed to Destroy America
The hosts dissect Trump's cabinet choices, linking them to a broader agenda that threatens democratic structures and prioritizes wealth over community welfare. They explore the motivations behind anti-trans legislation and its implications for gender rights. A historical perspective reveals how fabricated threats in politics shape public perception and voter behavior. The discussion also covers international events, emphasizing the need for ceasefires and the classification of extremist groups as global threats.

12 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 33min
It's in the Code Ep 129: “Sex Positive Purity?”
Can a 'sex positive' approach exist within high-control religious ideologies? The discussion delves into women's sexual fulfillment within restrictive frameworks and the implications of various Christian sex manuals. Is there a contradiction between promoting pleasure and enforcing purity? The conversation challenges the notion of a sex positive purity culture, examining the dynamics of sexuality in conservative settings and questioning the reality of a truly liberating framework.

5 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 38min
Greenland, Nato, and Repealing the 20th Century
The discussion kicks off with Greenland's changing role amidst rising Russian and Chinese interests. It dives into the political implications of Trump's statements on NATO and the risks of erasing historical policies. A revisitation of RFK's views on health regulations raises alarm about dismissing scientific foundations. Personal anecdotes and historical context unravel the complexities of territorial legacies. It all culminates in a call to reinforce democratic alliances, emphasizing the importance of NATO in countering totalitarian threats and preserving human rights.

17 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 5min
Weekly Roundup: The LA Fires, DEI, and the Right's New Slur
The hosts tackle the politicized responses to California’s wildfires, arguing that blaming DEI initiatives ignores climate change realities. They explore Trump’s comments on annexing territories, linking them to wider themes of fascism and expansionism. The discussion delves into the evolution of climate denial and the dangerous implications of conspiracies, all while sharing personal stories and humor. It's a mix of critical analysis and light-hearted moments, provoking thought about rhetoric and its impact on society.

Jan 8, 2025 • 38min
It's in the Code Ep 128: “The Porn Fixation”
This discussion delves into the intriguing obsession conservative, high-control Christians have with pornography. It highlights how apocalyptic fears influence their views on sexuality, contrasting them with more secular attitudes. The conversation reveals the damaging effects of strict sexual teachings, particularly the heightened guilt women face. Finally, it examines how these dynamics affect marriages and broader societal perceptions, raising thought-provoking questions about control and desire in these religious settings.

Jan 6, 2025 • 34min
RFK and the Fight to Repeal the 20th Century
The discussion dives into RFK Jr.'s controversial vaccine views and their effects on public health. It critiques the political narratives that shaped COVID-19 responses while advocating for evidence-based strategies. The need for scientific integrity in health leadership is emphasized, warning against conspiracy theories. Historical roots of American societal systems are explored, revealing ties to white supremacy. Lastly, a call for transformative leadership echoes FDR's legacy, aiming for a more efficient government in today's complex landscape.

Jan 3, 2025 • 1h 10min
Weekly Roundup: Jimmy Carter vs Elon Musk
The discussion reflects on Jimmy Carter's remarkable legacy, focusing on his commitment to social justice and the separation of church and state. In contrast, Elon Musk's billionaire influence raises questions about modern political dynamics. Tensions within the MAGA movement are explored, highlighting traditional populism versus technocratic elites. The complexities of wealth in politics are critiqued, alongside a look at the evolving narratives around immigration and the judiciary, scrutinizing the Supreme Court's hypocrisy and its impact on democracy.

8 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 43min
SWAJ Rewind: The Great American Pornography Wars
In this engaging conversation, Kelsey Burke, an associate professor of sociology and author of 'The Pornography Wars,' unpacks the intricate history of pornography in America. She explores the tug-of-war between feminist perspectives, the religious right, and sex worker rights, shedding light on their commonalities and conflicts. Burke also delves into societal perceptions of pornography addiction, challenging stigmas and presenting hidden narratives. Her insights on personal identity, morality, and the evolution of anti-porn movements make this a thought-provoking listen.

14 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 35min
Elon is Finding Out + Charlie Kirk Says Jesus Was Not a Refugee
The podcast dives into a Twitter debate sparked by Elon Musk's comments on foreign engineers, revealing divisions in the MAGA community. It examines Trump's cognitive abilities and leadership style in contrast to more strategic leaders like Putin. The discussion also addresses high-profile political maneuvers, including controversial withdrawals in Trump's nominations. Additionally, it tackles alarming immigration policy trends and rising xenophobia, underlining the importance of community activism and interwoven religious narratives.