
Straight White American Jesus
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.
Latest episodes

6 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 27min
It's in the Code ep 144: “It’s An Easy Fix”
Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/
“It’s An Easy Fix”
“It’s an easy fix.” That’s what the proponents of high control religion often say in response to those who ask hard questions or level pointed critiques. But is it an “easy fix”? If not, what is the strategy behind suggesting that it is? How does the assertion that high-control religion can “easily” be modified actually work to maintain it? Why should we recognize that this response aims to coerce and maintain control over would-be faith deconstructors? Join Dan in this episode as he explores these questions and issues.
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC
Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163
Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 40min
Trump Wants to Pay Women to Have Babies. We Already Know Why.
The podcast dives into the Trump White House's proposal for a $5,000 baby bonus aiming to boost the U.S. birth rate. It critiques the underlying white nationalist ideologies linked to this initiative, arguing it seeks to shape traditional family structures. Connections to Hungary’s pro-family policies under Viktor Orbán highlight a global conservative trend. The discussion also reflects on how these agendas can undermine broader public welfare while revealing the political strategies at play in the context of immigration and national identity.

18 snips
Apr 25, 2025 • 1h 14min
Weekly Roundup: The Pope, JD Vance, and Anti-Christian Bias
Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/
Brad and Dan talk about the controversial legacy of Pope Francis following his recent death, discussing his mixed reception among both conservatives and progressives. They highlight recent initiatives, including President Trump's anti-Christian bias task force led by figures such as Pam Bondi and Pete Hegseth.
The discussion touches on the differences between genuine religious freedom and Christian supremacy, as well as the potential uses of the task force for political propaganda.
Brad and Dan also cover recent legal losses for Trump, including issues with China trade tariffs, university disputes, and challenges in Ukraine. They conclude with updates on ongoing protests and legal actions, emphasizing growing pushback against the administration.
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC
Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163
Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

17 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 23min
Mini-Interview: Dr. Ruth Braunstein on Resisting Evangelical Extremism
Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/Brad speaks with Dr. Ruth Braunstein about her new podcast on the evangelicals resisting extremism within their communities. https://www.ruthbraunstein.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 28min
It's in the Code ep 143: “Don’t Throw Out the Baby”
This discussion dives into the emotional turmoil of breaking free from high-control Christian groups. It examines the metaphor of 'not throwing out the baby with the bathwater,' probing what elements of faith are worth preserving. The podcast reveals the isolating tactics these communities use to exert control and the emotional abuse that parallels toxic relationships. Listeners are invited to reflect on the connections to faith while navigating the difficult journey of deconstruction. It's an exploration of community, loyalty, and the search for new meaning.

11 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 43min
Christian Nationalists, Networked Cities, and Reverse Diaspora + The FSU Shooter's White Christian Nationalism
Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/Brad discusses the current trends in Christian nationalism with Kiera Butler of Mother Jones. They talk about Andrew Isker and C.Jay Engel's plans to build a Christian nationalist society in Tennessee, funded by venture capitalists. Isker's antisemitic and anti-Civil Rights Act views are highlighted as they explore the similarities between these Christian enclaves and tech-driven network cities. The discussion includes the impact of recent tragic events at Florida State University and the socio-political implications of such movements.Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJCOrder Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

24 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 1h 3min
Weekly Roundup: Good News Friday - Harvard, Abrego Garcia, and the Chinese Mirror
Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 800-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/Brad presents a 'Good News Friday' amidst various hard and difficult topics, focusing on positive developments from the past week. Key highlights include Andrew Seidel and Brian Kaylor's inspiring talks at Capitol Hill about the threats of Christian nationalism and authoritarianism.Brad also discusses Harvard University's resistance to the Trump administration's demands to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, amidst federal attempts to revoke its tax-exempt status. He touches on the ongoing fight for constitutional rights, particularly through the case of Abrego Garcia and the judicial pushback against the Trump administration's aggressive immigration policies.The episode wraps up with Brad reflecting on the global context, comparing U.S. infrastructure and societal norms with those in China, urging listeners to imagine a more vibrant, inclusive future for America.Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJCOrder Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

5 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 41min
Bonus Episode: Empathy, Sin, and Al Mohler Comes for SWAJ
A lively conversation kicks off with reflections on current challenges and special subscription offers. The hosts dive into Al Mohler's controversial stance on empathy, sharing personal stories and critiques of evangelical influences. They unpack the complexities of empathy versus sympathy, especially in parenting, while taking a hard look at theological interpretations affecting immigration policies. The excitement of the NBA playoffs brings in anecdotes about sports betting and sponsorships, plus a critical examination of evolving evangelical thought and biblical inerrancy.

6 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 30min
It's in the Code ep 142: “Cherry-Picking the Bible”
The podcast dives into the heated debate of cherry-picking Bible verses in faith deconstruction. It unpacks the accusation often directed at those questioning high-control Christianity, revealing it as a form of gaslighting. The discussion highlights the divide between traditional and contemporary scripture interpretations, questioning authority and hypocrisy in selective readings. Personal experiences shed light on the tensions within these groups, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives in understanding the Bible.

Apr 14, 2025 • 45min
Girls Gone Bible
Join Amanda Marcotte, a Senior politics writer at Salon and author of Troll Nation, as she dives into the intriguing world of "Girls Gone Bible," a podcast blending faith with right-wing politics. She discusses how this seemingly lighthearted platform subtly pushes a conservative agenda on young Christian women. The conversation covers the influence of scandal, the clash between authenticity and expertise in Christian influencer culture, and predictions on its future impact on beliefs and values among its audience.