
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

13 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 1h 10min
Weekly Roundup: Elon Isn't King and So Many Other Reasons for Hope
The discussion dives into the motivations behind Trump’s actions and the shadowy influence of Elon Musk on politics. It emphasizes the ongoing struggle against emerging oligarchy and the need for public awareness. Amid frustrations, the hosts highlight hopeful stories and ways to sustain joy and resilience for 2024. They explore the chaos within the GOP, the rise of diverse representatives, and the importance of collective action to address wealth disparities and improve healthcare access. A call for accountability underscores the need for democratic values in challenging times.

Dec 18, 2024 • 35min
It's in the Code Ep 127: “The Purpose of Sex (Part 3)?”
The discussion dives into the longstanding belief that the sole purpose of sex is procreation. By challenging conservative views, the conversation highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of human sexuality. Integrating evolutionary theory, they argue that sexual desire and behavior extend far beyond reproduction, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of intimacy and connection. This exploration invites listeners to reconsider what they think they know about the divine design of sexual purpose.

Dec 16, 2024 • 44min
Crusades, Christendom, and Pete Hegseth’s Tattoos - A Deep Dive
Join Spencer Kunz, a PhD student specializing in online crusader identities, as he delves into the controversial tattoos of Pete Hegseth and their ties to extremist groups. The conversation explores how Crusader symbols are repackaged by far-right movements to promote violence and aggression. Kunz also critiques the intertwining of contemporary Christian nationalism with historical Crusades, revealing disturbing implications for marginalized communities. The discussion encourages a deeper understanding of these complex issues in a chaotic online landscape.

24 snips
Dec 14, 2024 • 1h 10min
Weekly Roundup: Luigi Mangione and the End of Civilization
The hosts dive into Donald Trump's grocery store stories, revealing deeper issues of food pricing and political influence. They analyze the troubling case of Luigi Maggioni, exploring personal struggles and societal violence. Radicalization through pain is unfurled, reflecting on the healthcare system's failures. The conversation also touches on police violence and the disillusionment with authority, before shifting towards hope in the fight for trans rights, fueled by a recent court victory.

Dec 11, 2024 • 26min
It's in the Code Ep 126: “The Purpose of Sex (Part 2)?”
Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of the purpose of sex through an evolutionary lens. The discussion challenges the conventional belief that procreation is the primary aim of sexual activity. Instead, it suggests that sexual meanings are human constructs, varying across different stages and contexts of life. The host expresses gratitude to the audience, emphasizing the importance of listener engagement in shaping the podcast's content. Get ready for a fresh perspective on a timeless topic!

28 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 51min
The Christians Who Want to Scrap the Constitution to Crown a King
Dr. Jerome Copulsky, author and Berkeley Center research fellow, dives into the intriguing world of radical Christian movements in the U.S. He reveals how historical figures like R.J. Rushdoony have influenced modern political ideologies. The discussion touches on the alarming rise of Christian nationalism, the contentious intersection of faith and democracy, and critiques of women's rights within certain religious circles. Copulsky also highlights the evolving landscape of Catholic political thought and its implications for the future of American governance.

14 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 1h 10min
Weekly Roundup: The Qanon FBI Director and the Would Be King
The discussion dives into the alarming nomination of Kash Patel as FBI director, raising concerns about experience and qualifications. The implications of SCOTUS hearings on transgender discrimination are explored, linking current events to historical battles for civil rights. The conversation critiques the intersection of Christian nationalism and conspiracy theories like QAnon. Additionally, there's reflection on federal judges' resistance to Trump-era appointments, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in the fight against systemic oppression.

5 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 30min
It's in the Code Ep 125: “The Purpose of Sex (Part 1)?”
The discussion dives into the long-held idea that the sole purpose of sex is procreation, challenging this notion with insights from human diversity and sexuality. It argues for a broader understanding that includes different sexual and gender identities. The conversation also explores how societal influences shape our views on sexuality and questions the 'natural' purpose of sex, hinting at more complex theories in future discussions. It's a thought-provoking take on a topic often oversimplified in conservative circles.

17 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 37min
Is Trump's Authoritarianism Apocalyptic? w/ Matt Taylor
Matt Taylor, an expert on the New Apostolic Reformation and author of 'The Violent Took It By Force,' dives into the implications of Trump’s MAGA movement and its ties to Christian nationalism. He warns about the threat this populist authoritarianism poses to American democracy, paralleling it with global trends. Taylor discusses demographic shifts fueling political anxiety and the intersection of white supremacy with Christian nationalism. The conversation also highlights the importance of strategic resistance and building inclusive coalitions to counter authoritarian narratives.

20 snips
Nov 29, 2024 • 29min
SWAJ Rewind: Hitler, Trump, and Fascism
The discussion dives into the alarming parallels between contemporary political tactics and the rise of fascism in history. It highlights how post-WWI Germany's sense of betrayal mirrors today's sentiments among some Trump supporters. The podcast scrutinizes the 'stab in the back' myth and the 'Big Lie' as potent tools for manipulation and mobilization. By drawing these connections, it emphasizes the critical need for vigilance in safeguarding democracy against authoritarian movements.