The Thinking Muslim

The conversation centers on the Biden-Harris administration's alleged complicity in genocide and calls for political accountability. Experts argue that supporting such figures is politically naïve and advocate for strategic voting, particularly for third-party candidates. They emphasize that this shift is crucial for empowering the American Muslim community. The discussion also critiques the administration's actions regarding the Gaza conflict, urging a collective effort to challenge pro-Israel policies and ensure long-term political leverage.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Yakoob Ahmed interviews Muhammad Jalal, a passionate podcaster and activist dedicated to social justice in the Muslim community. They dive deep into the urgent situation in Gaza and the role of podcasts in mobilizing activism. The conversation touches on bridging youth engagement with activism, emphasizing critical thinking and community support. Jalal shares insights on fostering a collective Muslim voice in political discourse and the importance of inclusive dialogue in creating sustainable change.

Ahmed Paul Keeler, author of "Rethinking Islam and the West" and the upcoming "The Gazan Awakening," delves into the pressures modernity places on childhood. He discusses how the quest for progress often sidelines children's happiness, contrasting secular views with Islamic teachings on nurturing childhood. Keeler highlights the historical emergence of the teenager, critiques consumer culture's impact on youth, and advocates for reclaiming genuine childhood experiences. He also reflects on the challenges faced by today’s children, especially in conflict zones like Gaza.

Sami Hamdi, an expert commentator on US-Muslim relations, dives into the current political landscape impacting American Muslims. He discusses the moral dilemmas of voting amid pro-Zionist candidates, emphasizing the need for grassroots movements. The conversation touches on the significance of Muslim voters in swinging tight elections and shifting political alliances within the Republican Party. Hamdi highlights the complexities of engaging with the political system, and the necessity for collective activism, particularly in light of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Sami Hamdi, an expert commentator on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, dives deep into the ongoing brutality in Gaza and the complicity of Western powers. He critiques how the West frames Israel as a benevolent force, and discusses Israel's latest military strategies and their implications. Hamdi also analyzes the intricate relationships between regional players like Iran, Hezbollah, and Turkey, highlighting the complex geopolitical landscape. With insights into shifting alliances and the humanitarian crises in Syria, the dialogue sheds light on an increasingly fraught Middle Eastern reality.

Dr. Tareq al-Suwaidan, a respected advocate for unity within the Muslim community, delves into the complex Sunni-Shia divide. He discusses the historical grievances that fuel sectarian tension and the role of geopolitical rivalries, especially in Iraq and Palestine. Emphasizing the need for coexistence, Dr. Suwaidan encourages personal accountability and collaboration, urging the Ummah to transcend past divisions. He envisions a united community through dialogue and respect for diverse identities, highlighting the path to collective action against oppression.

Dr. Yakoob Ahmed, an expert in late Ottoman history and author of "Does History Matter?", shares intriguing insights on the misconceptions in Muslim history. He emphasizes the importance of viewing history from a cyclical perspective, integrating past lessons with contemporary challenges. The discussion highlights the roles of Muslims as intellectuals and activists, particularly in light of current events in Gaza. Ahmed advocates for deeper engagement with historical narratives, calling for authenticity over superficial knowledge in the quest to retell the Muslim experience.

Dr. Tareq al-Suwaidan, a prolific writer and speaker, reflects on the disheartening state of the Muslim Ummah in light of Gaza's struggles. He analyzes the decline of leadership over the past century and critiques Western interference that hampered progress. The conversation emphasizes the need for strong, collective leadership and strategic vision to foster unity. Al-Suwaidan also discusses historical lessons, urging the community to transform grief into action and mobilize towards meaningful change amidst ongoing suffering.

Matt Kennard, an investigative journalist and co-founder of Declassified UK, delves into U.S. imperialism and its global consequences. He reveals how a network of elites perpetuates American dominance and critiques the two-party system as a façade of democracy. The discussion also highlights the media's complicity in shaping narratives around geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the Israel-Palestine context. Kennard emphasizes the need for collective resistance and unity against division to challenge these entrenched power dynamics.

Harris Irfan, CEO of Cordoba Capital Markets and a veteran in Islamic finance, shares insights into managing money ethically as a Muslim in the West. He discusses the challenges posed by traditional banking and advocates for participatory finance principles. Inflation's impact on investments is examined, stressing the need for ethical practices. Irfan highlights the importance of trustworthy financial advisors and ethical investing aligned with Islamic values. He calls for community empowerment through financial education and sustainable, halal investment strategies.