Straight White American Jesus

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An in-depth examination of the culture and politics of white Evangelical Christians by two ex-evangelical ministers-turned-religion professors.

Bradley Onishi


    • Oct 3, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 44m AVG DURATION
    • 942 EPISODES

    4.7 from 1,456 ratings Listeners of Straight White American Jesus that love the show mention: nationalism, exvangelical, former evangelical, white evangelicals, american christianity, white american, american evangelicalism, religious right, straight white, evangelical culture, evangelical christian, dan miller, evangelical church, hot button, orange county, thank you brad, unpacking, fundamentalist, bradley, white supremacy.


    Ivy Insights

    The Straight White American Jesus podcast is an essential listen for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of religion, politics, and culture in America today. The hosts, Brad and Dan, provide insightful analysis and commentary on current events as they relate to the conservative evangelical movement. Their expertise and engaging delivery make this podcast both informative and thought-provoking.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the depth of knowledge displayed by the hosts. Brad and Dan clearly have a deep understanding of the history and theology behind the Christian right movement. They bring in a variety of experts and guests to provide diverse perspectives on the topics they discuss. This allows listeners to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.

    Another positive aspect of this podcast is its relevance to current events. Brad and Dan do an excellent job of tying their discussions to real-time occurrences, making it easy for listeners to connect what they hear on the show with what they see happening in the world around them. This makes the podcast engaging and helps listeners stay informed about ongoing developments.

    While The Straight White American Jesus podcast offers invaluable insights into conservative evangelicalism, one potential drawback is that it may not appeal to those who do not share similar political or religious views. The show delves into controversial topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, racial inequality, and women's issues from a progressive perspective. While this is important for fostering dialogue and promoting understanding, it may alienate some listeners who hold different beliefs.

    In conclusion, The Straight White American Jesus podcast provides a unique and informative perspective on religion, politics, and culture in America today. Through their deep knowledge, engaging discussions, and relevant analysis, Brad and Dan offer valuable insights into contemporary issues facing society today. Whether you agree with their viewpoints or not, this podcast serves as an essential resource for anyone seeking to better understand the conservative evangelical movement in America.



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    Latest episodes from Straight White American Jesus

    Weekly Roundup: Hegseth Declares War On the Military + Trump Declares War On You

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 63:24


    Brad and Dan examine Pete Hegseth's recent gathering of generals, critiquing his “warrior ethos” rhetoric and highlighting the dangers of his speech that attacked DEI, questioned due process in sexual assault cases, and called for stricter religious and fitness standards in the military. They unpack his fat-shaming and fabricated claims, contrasting leadership with rulership in both Hegseth's and Trump's approaches, which lean on power rather than genuine leadership. The discussion expands to Trump's disturbing remarks about using American cities as military training grounds and framing citizens as enemies, alongside analysis of Project 2025, the looming government shutdown, and Russ Vought's strategy targeting blue states. Brad and Dan also spotlight Judge William G. Young's strong defense of pro-Palestinian speech and his rebuke of Trump's attacks on free expression. With themes of authoritarianism, executive overreach, and the critical role of resistance, the hosts call on listeners to stay informed, resist normalization of these tactics, and engage in the ongoing fight for democracy. 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 Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    It's in the Code ep 164: “The Model Man”

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 31:32


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Series: “Manhood” Title: “The Model Man”This episode kicks off a deep-dive in the cultural discourse on “manhood” that is such a defining feature of conservative high-control religion and contemporary Christian nationalism. Dan will be exploring this theme by looking at the way it's expressed in US Senator Josh Hawley's book, Manhood: The Masculine Virtues America Needs. In this episode, he asks, who is Josh Hawley, and what makes him (in his own estimation) the “model man” to guide us on a journey to authentic “masculinity.” The answers? Take a listen to find out! 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

    Brad Unfiltered: Troops in Portland: A Symbol of Authoritarianism

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 53:38


    In this livestream from 9/29, Brad Onishi discusses the implications of sending troops to Portland, the gathering of military leaders, and the broader context of political authoritarianism in the United States. He explores the motivations behind these actions, the framing of American citizens as enemies, and the potential threats to democracy and voting rights. The conversation also touches on how Christian nationalists see the death of Charlie Kirk as the bullet to the neck of lefitsm in the USA. The deployment of troops to Portland is largely symbolic and politically motivated. The American right views Portland as a representation of everything they oppose. The gathering of military leaders raises concerns about loyalty and the potential for oppression. The current administration is focusing on domestic threats rather than foreign adversaries. The framing of American citizens as enemies is a dangerous trend. Voting rights are under threat, and the system is being manipulated to ensure votes don't count. Christian nationalists are increasingly vocal about their desire for a violent response to progressivism. Historical parallels can be drawn between current events and authoritarian regimes like Franco's Spain. The definition of the 'enemy' is expanding to include various groups and individuals. Awareness and mobilization are crucial in the face of these threats to democracy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    White Evangelicalism + American Empire

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 39:00


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad interviews Dr. Helen Jin Kim, who unpacks the intertwined history of White Evangelicalism, U.S. empire, and the Korean Peninsula. The conversation explores how Cold War geopolitics and American missionary organizations like Billy Graham, World Vision, and Campus Crusade helped fuel Christianity's explosive growth in South Korea, while also advancing U.S. neocolonial influence. Dr. Kim highlights the nationalist visions and agency of Korean Christians, the racial dynamics that rendered Asian actors invisible in American Evangelical history, and the enduring legacy of anti-communist rhetoric across both U.S. and Korean Christian communities. The discussion sheds light on the intersection of race, religion, and empire, and the challenges faced by Korean American Christians as they navigate identity, theology, and politics in the United States. 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

    Weekly Roundup: Tylenol Trump at the UN + Political Violence

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 69:03


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ This episode of Straight White American Jesus dives into a wide range of pressing issues, from the Trump administration's controversial advice for pregnant women to avoid Tylenol—driven in part by RFK's influence despite a lack of scientific support—to the broader political and patriarchal implications for public health. The hosts examine how the right manipulates media through distraction and “flooding the zone,” using high-profile events like the murder of Charlie Kirk to bury stories such as the Epstein files. They also unpack the escalation of political violence and rhetoric, highlighting the dangerous labeling of teachers and opponents as “terrorists” by figures like JD Vance, Kash Patel, Kristi Noem, and Steve Bannon. Megan Kelly's dismissive response to an ICE bribery scandal serves as a window into how loyalty now trumps principles, while the erosion of good faith dialogue underscores the deepening polarization tied to identity and ideology. Yet, amid the bleak landscape, the episode also points to reasons for hope, from Ryan Walters' resignation as Oklahoma superintendent to Disney's challenge of Jimmy Kimmel's suspension, offering reminders that pushback and positive change are still possible. 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

    It's in the Code ep 163: “Social Justice Is Justice, Pt. 3”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 33:53


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this final episode exploring Allie Beth Stuckey's critique of “toxic empathy,” Dan takes on her argument that calls for “social justice” are not only un-Christian, but “evil.” On what basis does she make this claim? And how does she defend this view as “biblical?” How does she deal with the dozens and dozens of biblical passages that call for social justice? And what does the answer to this question tell us about how she understands racial identity? Listen to this week's episode to find out! 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

    Inside Charlie Kirk's Memorial: A Deep Dive into Christian Nationalism and Political Polarization

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 49:34


    Subscribe for $40 for the ENTIRE YEAR! to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this episode, we explore the recent memorial service for Charlie Kirk, which turned into a significant event for Christian nationalists. We delve into the themes of American identity fused with Christian practice, the hagiographic portrayal of Charlie Kirk, and the reaction of various political and religious figures. From the involvement of Trump and his administration to the divisive rhetoric of speakers like Stephen Miller and Tucker Carlson, this episode highlights the ongoing struggle between different visions of American Christianity and nationalism. We also touch upon the contrasting views on forgiveness vs. hatred within the MAGA movement and the broader implications for the nation. 00:00 Introduction to Charlie Kirk's Memorial 00:44 Defining Christian Nationalism 01:25 Hagiography of Charlie Kirk 05:09 The Saint of MAGA Nation 08:26 Forgiveness and Vengeance 16:46 Christian Nationalism vs. Big Evangelicalism 23:13 Stephen Miller's Speech and Its Implications 28:42 Tucker Carlson's Controversial Remarks 39:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Leah Greenberg, Co-Founder of Indivisible, On Mobilizing and Hope

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 40:53


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad is joined by Leah Greenberg, co-founder of Indivisible, for a powerful conversation about the unprecedented scale of grassroots mobilization since the Trump administration and the importance of finding a local organizing home. They discuss historic mass protests like “Hands Off” and “No King's Day,” which saw millions gather across thousands of towns, and explore the effectiveness of protest and advocacy when paired with strategy. Leah introduces Indivisible's ambitious 1 Million Rising initiative to train people in nonviolent resistance and organizing, highlighting the urgency of preparing for authoritarian tactics such as voter intimidation and election subversion. They also cover the stakes of upcoming elections, threats to voting rights, and the need for a unifying narrative that inspires hope and authentic engagement with voters. The conversation emphasizes the power of digital organizing, including Indivisible's new “Truth and Share” tool, while underscoring that sustained, community-based action is essential to resisting authoritarianism and securing the future of democracy. 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

    Weekly Roundup: State Media, Jimmy Kimmel, and How Free Speech Dies

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 67:04


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad and Dan tackle the controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel, the FCC, and free speech in the United States, while examining political and media reactions to Charlie Kirk's death and the responses from Trump allies JD Vance and Steven Miller. They discuss the broader implications for media censorship, the growing power of state-aligned outlets, and how high-profile events are used to justify targeting dissent, particularly against left-wing groups, trans people, and critics of the Trump administration. The episode highlights the Heritage Foundation's push to label trans people and allies as domestic terrorists, the chilling effect of government threats on universities and businesses, and the ripple effects leading to preemptive firings and resignations. Despite these alarming developments, Brad and Dan underscore the importance of resistance, hope, and refusing to give in to authoritarian trends. 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

    It's in the Code ep 162: “Social Justice Is Justice, Pt. 2”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 39:09


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this episode, Dan considers his look at why Allie Beth Stuckey rejects calls for social justice. He shows how she denies the existence of systemic racism and of racial privilege, and the ways in which she ignores the multiple dimensions of social justice to invalidate the experience of racism by millions of Americans. He also argues that people like Stuckey carefully cultivate their ignorance of the dynamics of race and privilege in America to protect and preserve their own social privilege. Check out this week's episode to hear more! 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

    Political Violence Before and After Charlie Kirk's Murder

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 51:16


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad discusses the political and cultural climate surrounding the murder of Charlie Kirk, focusing on the rise of political violence, the Supreme Court's recent decision enabling racial profiling, and the rhetoric of white Christian nationalism. Joined by Alan Elrod, they explore how online culture and screens have changed the way Americans process violence and empathy, the impact of status anxiety in the heartland, and the dangers of exclusionary ideologies. The conversation highlights the erosion of empathy and civic connection in the digital age, the manipulation of tragic events for political gain, and the urgent need to foster both meaningful social interactions and reflective solitude to sustain a healthy democracy. 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

    Weekly Roundup: The Death and Afterlife of Charlie Kirk

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 63:16


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this episode, Brad and Dan discuss the life, death, and legacy of Charlie Kirk, examining the media and political reactions to his assassination, the narratives emerging from both the right and left, and the broader context of political violence in America. They explore Kirk's influence on conservative and Christian nationalist movements, the controversial rhetoric and actions associated with him and his organization TPUSA, and the tendency of mainstream media to valorize divisive figures after their deaths. They emphasize their opposition to political violence, reflect on the complexities of online radicalization, and critique the use of free speech rhetoric to silence criticism, while also highlighting recent events and ongoing issues related to violence, democracy, and hope in the U.S. and abroad. 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

    It's in the Code ep 161: “Social Justice Is Justice, Pt. 1”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 32:54


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In the final chapter of her book, Allie Beth Stuckey takes on “social justice.” Specifically, she puts forward her argument that demands for “social justice” are not only expressions of “toxic” empathy, but they are actually unjust, and incompatible with Christian notions of justice. But her arguments depend on the idea that White Christians are the real victims of social injustice and on fundamental misperceptions of social reality. In what ways, and why does this matter so much? Check out this week's episode to find out! 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

    Are There Non-Harmful Ways to Read the Bible?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 44:20


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad speaks with Zach Lambert, pastor of Restore Austin and author of "Better Ways to Read the Bible." Together, they explore how the Bible has often been used as a weapon to exclude and harm, but also discuss more inclusive and healing approaches to scripture. Zach shares his personal journey from being excluded in youth group to leading a church that embraces diversity and affirms LGBTQ+ members. The conversation covers harmful interpretive lenses like moralism and hierarchy, and highlights better alternatives such as fruitfulness and flourishing, emphasizing interpretations that promote love, justice, and community. They also address the dangers of Christian nationalism and Christo-fascism, offering hope for a more compassionate and just expression of faith. 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

    Weekly Roundup: This Is An Invasion - Pritzker, Trump, and the Union Coming Apart + Venezuelan Boat Attack

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 58:53


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad and Dan tackle a whirlwind of pressing issues shaping the American landscape. They break down Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's bold stand against Trump's threats to deploy the military in Chicago, explore the deeper implications of masculinity and political power through viral moments and media narratives, and discuss the targeting of marginalized groups in current policy debates. The hosts connect these events to broader themes of authoritarianism, the myth of the “Lost Cause,” and the ongoing struggle over American identity, all while offering sharp analysis, historical context, and a dose of hope for resistance and community. 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

    It's in the Code ep 160: “No Human Is Illegal, Pt.3”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 32:30


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Allie Beth Stuckey tells us that our views on immigrants, immigration, and borders must be shaped by an awareness that God is a god of “order.” But what does “order” mean for her? And how does this shape her understanding of immigrants and immigration? Are there other ways to understand order? And what if god is understood in terms of compassion, or love, or redemption, or justice, rather than “order”? How might these notions shape our attitudes in different ways? Take a listen to this week's episode as Dan takes us through these 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

    The Modern Day Scopes Trial

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 39:27


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ 100 years after the famous Scopes "Monkey" Trial, the battle over the separation of church and state in American public life is as heated as ever. Brad is joined by Dan Mach, director of the ACLU's Program on Freedom of Religion and Belief, to discuss the enduring legacy of the Scopes trial and its modern-day echoes in courtrooms and classrooms across the country. 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

    Weekly Roundup: Thoughts & Prayers, But No Vaccines or Safety

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 64:02


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ This week on Straight White American Jesus, Brad and Dan unpack a heavy news cycle that spans tragedy, politics, and cultural shifts. They begin with the Minnesota mass shooting, examining the familiar “thoughts and prayers” narrative and how political leaders like Jacob Frey, Jen Psaki, and JD Vance framed the conversation. From there, the hosts turn to the shakeup at the CDC, where the removal of its director and the installation of a biotech investor with ties to Peter Thiel signals the increasing replacement of experts with ideologues. They also trace the troubling reemergence of eugenics in public discourse, especially in rhetoric from figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The conversation then shifts to higher education and the military, highlighting the purge of civilian faculty at West Point and the broader attack on the humanities as part of a push toward compliance over critical thought. Despite the grim topics, Brad and Dan close with reflections on resilience, community, and reasons to hold on to hope. 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

    Bonus Episode: Trump is Dying. Military Occupation is Happening. What's Next?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 39:33


    Subscribe for $40 for the entire year to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 700-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this episode of Straight White American Jesus, co-hosts Brad Onishi and Dan Miller analyze the rise of fascism in the United States, discussing Trump's failing health and the regime's maneuvers to cement control before he exits the scene. They explore how ICE raids and aggressive deportation tactics are undercutting Steven Miller's totalitarian aims, and the notable resistance by Democratic governors who are increasingly emphasizing state rights. The conversation also touches on the shifting narratives around big government, with the Trump administration epitomizing invasive, socialist policies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    It's in the Code ep 159: “No Human Is Illegal, Pt.2”

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 35:03


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Allie Beth Stuckey advances a typically xenophobic, right-wing immigration agenda, focused on using misinformation and scare-mongering to justify keeping (primarily) non-White immigrants out of the US. And she says that she does so for “biblical” reasons. But what are these reasons? What biblical rationale does she offer? And how does she deal with the numerous Bible passages that command care for the “foreigner,” the “sojourner,” the “stranger among you”? Listen to this week's episode as Dan tackles these issues, uncovering a pattern of selective appeals to the Bible that is typical of high-control conservative Christianity. 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

    New Data Shows Democrats Are in Deep Trouble With People of Faith

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 60:15


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this episode, Brad interviews Doug Pagitt, Executive Director of Vote Common Good, about the Democratic Party's challenges with religious voters. They discuss the results of a major new survey showing that many Christians view the Democratic Party as hostile to religion, and explore the importance of identity, inclusion, and outreach in political organizing. The conversation covers the need for Democrats to better engage faith communities, the role of narrative and belonging in voter behavior, and the impact of recent changes to the Johnson Amendment on churches' political activity. Doug shares insights on how candidate quality, intentional outreach, and building a “big tent” coalition are crucial for future electoral success, emphasizing that both religious and non-religious voters must feel welcomed and valued within the party. 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

    Weekly Roundup: MAGA's War on Education, Sanctuary, and DEI

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 56:02


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Dan goes solo to unpack a series of stories that reveal how the MAGA movement is working to operationalize a white Christian nationalist vision of America. From the Department of Education's rollback of guidance meant to support English-language learners, to Trump-era attacks on sanctuary cities like Boston, to rhetoric targeting Native American sovereignty in Tulsa, Dan shows how each of these actions fits into a broader strategy of exclusion and racialized politics. The episode also highlights how the dismantling of DEI programs on college campuses strips away resources that protected marginalized students, even as discrimination persists. Through historical context, cultural decoding, and contemporary examples, Dan demonstrates how seemingly disparate headlines connect to a single ideological project—and why resistance, vigilance, and collective action matter now more than ever. 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

    Special Episode: James Dobson, Eugenics, and the Pure American Body

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 22:40


    In this special edition of Straight White American Jesus, host Dr. Brad Onishi reflects on the harmful legacy of James Dobson, who just passed away. Known as the founder of Focus on the Family, Dobson's teachings on the nuclear family, gender roles, and corporal punishment have left a traumatic impact on evangelical communities. Onishi connects Dobson's work to the broader themes of eugenics and Christian nationalism, noting Dobson's early association with eugenicist Paul Popenoe. The episode discusses how Dobson's views on family structure, purity culture, and authoritarian parenting continue to shape American society and politics today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    It's in the Code ep 158: “No Human Is Illegal, Pt.1”

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 37:35


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this first episode examining Allie Beth Stuckey's chapter on immigration, Dan considers Stuckey's question “what happened?” to bipartisan support for immigration reform. She suggests that liberals and progressives have become radical on the issue of immigration and drifted far from the American mainstream. But Dan argues that Stuckey, and those on the right like her, have misled Americans for decades about their real positions on immigration, masking a desire to maintain a White America. As this has come more clearly into view, more and more Americans have come to oppose their views. Check out this week's episode to hear more! 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

    Alt Reich: The Network War Within

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 51:58


    Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad interviews Dr. Nafeez Ahmed, author of "Alt Reich," about the historical and contemporary roots of fascism and white supremacy in Western politics. They discuss the evolution of far-right ideologies from the 1930s to the present, the influence of eugenics and organizations like the Pioneer Fund and Heritage Foundation, and the mainstreaming of racist ideas in both the US and UK. The conversation highlights the cyclical nature of political disillusionment, the dangers of extremist groups gaining power, and the role of key figures like Steven Miller and Curtis Yarvin in shaping current policy and rhetoric. Alt Reich book: https://www.nafeezahmed.net/ 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

    Weekly Roundup: God and the Military in DC + Nazi-Loving Economist Takes Over Jobs Data

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 68:30


    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/ In this episode of Straight White American Jesus, Brad and Dan reunite to break down a tumultuous week in American politics, focusing on the federal takeover of Washington DC, the appointment of a controversial Heritage Foundation economist to oversee jobs data, and Gavin Newsom's bold trolling of Trump. Brad & Dan explore the deeper cultural and theological roots of authoritarianism, the weaponization of fear and emotion in right-wing politics, and the chilling implications of ICE and military presence at political events. With sharp analysis, personal anecdotes, and a dash of humor, they offer listeners both a sobering look at the current state of democracy and reasons for hope and resistance. 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

    SWAJ Rewind: It's In the Code Ep. 54: Suffering and Persecution

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 21:13


    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/ Why do conservative American Christians and Christian nationalists use the rhetoric of being “attacked” and “persecuted”? Why do they perceive themselves to be “suffering” in the contemporary United States, when they experience pronounced social, cultural, and legal privilege? And how do these ideas link up with the broader valorization of “suffering” within some forms of Christian identity? Dan takes on these issues in this week's episode. 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

    Leah Litman on the Grievance and Conspiracy Theories That Run SCOTUS

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 36:47


    In this episode of 'Straight White American Jesus,' host Brad Onishi welcomes Leah Litman, a professor of law at the University of Michigan Law School , author of "Lawless," and co-host of the podcast 'Strict Scrutiny.' They discuss the political nature of the Supreme Court. Litman highlights conservative grievances, the rise of conspiracy theories influenced by these grievances, and the implications for judicial decisions affecting voting rights, LGBT equality, and reproductive rights. They explore the detrimental impact of originalism and the influence of the Federalist Society on judicial appointments. The conversation concludes with potential reforms to democratize the Supreme Court, including court expansion and ethics codes. 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/ Lawless: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Lawless/Leah-Litman/9781668054628 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekly Roundup: Texas Gerrymander is An Existential Threat to the Republic

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 55:17


    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/ In this episode of 'Straight White American Jesus', host Brad Onishi dives into the pressing issue of gerrymandering, which has recently taken center stage in national politics. Onishi discusses its widespread impact, from Texas to Illinois, and emphasizes the potential dangers to democracy if these actions continue unchecked. Special focus is given to Texas, where state Democrats have fled to avoid a quorum. The episode also touches on the problematic appointment of a former rioter as an advisor to the Department of Justice. Amidst these challenges, Onishi highlights a forthcoming series aimed at showcasing global resistance to authoritarianism, offering a glimmer of hope and strategies for effective pushback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    It's in the Code ep 157: “Love Is Love, Pt.3”

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 37:21


    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/ Does Allie Beth Stuckey struggle with the temptation to exercise “toxic empathy?” In this episode, considering her opposition to marriage equality, Dan suggests that she does. How does she respond to this temptation? What does this response show us not only about her, but about high-control American Christianity? How does it illustrate the ways in which high-control religion invariably masks exercises of power and authority as “love”? Check out this week's episode to find out. 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

    Special Episode: Will Democrats Be Arrested? On the Ground Reporting from the Texas Capitol

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 25:39


    Redistricting and Political Turmoil in TexasIn this special edition of Straight White American Jesus, host Brad Onishi interviews Forrest Wildler from Texas Monthly to discuss the ongoing political upheaval in Texas. The conversation focuses on the Democrats' strategic exodus to break quorum in response to the Texas GOP's redistricting efforts, driven by Trump's demand for a more favorable playing field for Republicans. The episode delves into the humanitarian crisis ignored by the legislature, the potential consequences on both state and national politics, and the broader implications for democracy. 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/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Churches Can Now Endorse Political Candidates - It's a Dark Money Nightmare

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 44:03


    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 sits down with David Corn, Washington Bureau Chief at Mother Jones, to unpack the IRS's quiet but monumental decision to gut the Johnson Amendment—effectively giving churches and religious organizations the green light to endorse political candidates for the first time in nearly 70 years. They explore how this shift could turn churches into political machines fueled by dark money, spark “pay to play” dynamics among pastors, and deepen polarization within congregations. From mega-churches pushing campaign ads to local races influenced by pulpit power, the episode dives into the far-reaching consequences for democracy, transparency, and the already fragile wall between church and state. 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

    Weekly Roundup: "Starve Away" + New Trump Policy Encourages Christians to Proselytize at Work

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 63:53


    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 tackle two urgent developments shaping the intersection of politics and religion in America. They begin with the escalating humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, examining how allegations of genocide—now echoed by Israeli human rights groups—are forcing fractures within the GOP, with figures like Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene offering unexpected critiques. Brad and Dan explore how Israel's religious nationalism and the U.S. tendency to cast Islam and Palestine as threats complicate public discourse. Then, they turn to a chilling new Trump-era memo permitting federal employees to evangelize in the workplace, unpacking its implications for religious privilege, secular rights, and the Christian nationalist agenda behind Project 2025. Along the way, they call out congressional hypocrisy, share reasons for hope in the form of abortion shield laws, and spotlight rising global recognition of Palestine and U.S.-based resistance efforts. 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

    It's in the Code ep 156: “Love Is Love, Pt.2”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 50:45


    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/ In her homophobic attacks on “toxic empathy” as it relates to marriage equality and queer sexuality, Allie Beth Stuckey spends more time addressing the Bible than she has in the previous chapters of her book. But what, exactly, does she think the Bible is, and how does she believe we should read it? She gives us an important insight into this when she claims that everything in the Bible is what Jesus taught. But what can that possibly mean? And how does it relate to her promotion of a homophobic reading of the Bible? And what problems and ethical issues arise if we understand the Bible in these terms? And finally, does the Bible really advance the homophobic teachings Stuckey says it does? Check our this week's episode as Dan dives into these 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

    An Anthropologist on the Everyday Walls of American Life - And How to Tear Them Down

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 56:31


    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 Onishi sits down with Dr. Anand Pandian, author of Something Between Us, to explore the everyday “walls” that divide Americans—from SUVs and suburbs to video doorbells and noise-canceling headphones. Drawing on James Baldwin's influence, Pandian reveals how our built environments and habits foster suspicion, loneliness, and disconnection. They exacertabe the ruthlessness of our political age. Onishi and Pandian discuss how activism, like the “Aunt Flow” movement, and simple neighborly acts can help rebuild empathy and community. This episode is a powerful reminder that polarization isn't just political—it's personal, physical, and fixable. Anand Pandian's book: https://anand.studio Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Bonus Live Episode: White House + PraegerU Are Making AI-Slop Founding Fathers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2025 30:54


    In the first ever live-audience recording of a SWAJ episode, Brad Onishi and and Dan Miller discuss the unholy alliance between the White House and PragerU to generate AI slop that rewrites the words of Founding Fathers to fit ultra-conservative narratives. They highlight the deeper implications of this partnership, including the potential impact on education, the distortion of historical truth, and the broader socio-political atmosphere. The episode also touches on questions from the audience related to Christian nationalism, Reconstructionism, and current political controversies. 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/ Linktree:⁠ https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC⁠ Order Brad's book: ⁠https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekly Roundup: Manifesting Destiny: Birthright citizenship, DHS, and "Native Americans"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 66:21


    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/ n this episode of Straight White American Jesus, hosts Brad Onishi and Dan Miller dive deep into the ongoing fight over birthright citizenship and the Trump administration's efforts to reshape American identity. They explore: The latest court battles over the 14th Amendment and birthright citizenship, including recent nationwide injunctions and their significance. The Trump administration's use of propaganda, including the Department of Homeland Security's posting of the iconic “Progress” painting by John Gast, and how it ties into white Christian nationalism. The historical roots of Manifest Destiny, settler colonialism, and the exclusion of Indigenous and other marginalized groups from the American narrative. The religious and philosophical ideas that have shaped American policies, including the role of Christian nationalism and the reinterpretation of “Native American” identity by white Christian nationalists. The intersection of current events, including the Epstein case, immigration policy, and the destruction of emergency food supplies, with broader themes of justice, exclusion, and national identity. 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

    It's in the Code ep 155: “Love Is Love, Pt.1”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 47:09


    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/ In the third chapter of her book attacking “toxic empathy,” Allie Beth Stuckey mounts her argument against gay rights and, in particular, marriage equality. Throughout her chapter, she asserts that marriage equality marks a departure from “biblical” or “traditional” marriage, from a model of marriage that has decisively shaped the Christian West from the time of Jesus and before, and that it should therefore be resisted at all costs. As Dan argues in this episode, the problem with this view is that it simply isn't true. There has never been a clear, unequivocal “biblical” view on marriage, and understandings of marriage within the Christian tradition have evolved and changed from the time of Christ right up to the present day. Listen in to hear more about this, and why this matters for confronting the anti-LGBTQ+ agenda of Stuckey and those on the religious and cultural right. 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

    Christendom 2.0: What Does Moscow Have to Do With DC?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 46:00


    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 examines the growing influence of Christian Reconstructionism within the United States, focusing on the opening of a new Christ Church outpost in Washington DC. He delves into the history of Christian Reconstructionism, its key figures like Doug Wilson and R.J. Rushdoony, and the ideology's impact on American politics and society. Brad discusses the attendance of high-profile figures like Pete Hegseth at the new church and the broader implications for Christian nationalism. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the movement from its fringe status to becoming a significant force within American Christianity and political life. 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

    Re-Release: Rep. James Talarico - the Christian Democrat Fighting Christian Nationalism in Texas

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 44:43


    Rep. James Talarico is a Christian fighting Christian nationalism in the Texas legislature. He's also an 8th generation Texans; a former middle school teacher; and a seminarian. He calls school voucher schemes “scams,” and “welfare for the rich,” while labeling Gov. Abbott “Robinhood in reverse.” He went viral for opposing the Ten Commandments bill on religious grounds and is now squaring up against the Christian nationalist billionaire pastors trying to take over Texas – and the United States. He spoke to Brad about reproductive rights, education, religious freedom, and how Texans are fighting back. Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus episodes, ad-free listening, access to the entire 500-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Subscribe now to Pure White: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pure-white/id1718974286 To Donate: venmo – @straightwhitejc Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/BradleyOnishi Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://www.amazon.com/Preparing-War-Extremist-Christian-Nationalism/dp/1506482163 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekly Roundup: Trump, Epstein, John MacArthur, Allie Beth Stuckey, and Theology for Psychopaths

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 73:20


    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 unpack the legacy of John MacArthur, the influential evangelical preacher whose death reignites conversations around authority, submission, and even slavery in conservative Christianity. They also examine new developments in the Epstein-Trump story and whether any of it could dent Trump's support. The conversation then turns to the troubling fusion of empathy and authoritarianism in evangelical spaces—highlighting figures like Allie Beth Stuckey—and the political whiplash from GOP senators flipping on education funding and Medicaid cuts. What does it all mean for Trump and the future of the MAGA movement? 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

    It's in the Code ep 154: “All Women Are Women, Pt. 3”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 44:07


    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/ In this final episode taking on Allie Beth Stuckey's defense of transphobia, Dan looks at her appeals to the Bible and her claims that she is seeking to “protect” women and children. He shows how she selectively appeals to the Bible to support the anti-trans positions she already holds, and how her insistence that she is “protecting” women and children actually works to mask her efforts to actively target and harm transgender and gender-nonconforming people. Check out this week's episode to hear this and more. 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

    Tech Fascists vs Christian Nationalists?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 39:57


    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 potential breakup between Elon Musk-led tech fascists and the Christian nationalists who have been staunch supporters of Trump. Exploring the impact of JD Vance joining the Trump ticket and his traditionalist Catholic views, the episode delves into how this dynamic might play out. Brad emphasizes JD Vance's role as a bridge between Christian nationalist voters and Silicon Valley, suggesting the Trump-Musk feud may not significantly impact this coalition. The episode also highlights concerns about white ethno-nationalism and increased surveillance on immigrants, with detailed commentary on ICE's current activities and their implications for the upcoming elections. 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

    Weekly Roundup: Texas Floods and the Vengeful Theology of Kristi Noem + Why the Concentration Camp Had to Be in Florida

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 68:23


    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 begin with the devastating floods in Texas and Kristi Noem's controversial disaster response before turning to a chilling development: a proposed concentration camp in Florida. From there, they examine the deeper forces driving these events—white Christian nationalism, the weakening of church-state separation, and newly proposed changes to the Johnson Amendment. With insight and urgency, Brad and Dan break down the theological narratives, policy shifts, and cultural consequences shaping today's America. They also highlight why local elections and grassroots activism remain critical in the face of mounting extremism. 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

    It's in the Code ep 153: “All Women Are Women, Pt. 2”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 45:47


    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/ Allie Beth Stuckey advances her argument against the legitimacy and reality of transgender identity by considering the testimonial of an individual who transitioned to a gender different from their assigned birth gender, only to “detransition” later, and by appealing to the theory of “Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria.” In this episode, Dan shows why these appeals are not only not compelling, but how they actually prove the opposite of what Stuckey intends. The testimonial she recounts is of an individual who never fit the diagnostic criteria for gender dysphoria, and the theory of “Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria” is a pseudo-scientific theory without broad acceptance or any clinical basis. Listen to this week's episode to hear more! 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

    A Jewish Holy Land in Texas? Immigration, Assimilation, and Making Land Holy with Rachel Cockerell

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 44:07


    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/ In this episode of Straight White American Jesus, Brad welcomes Rachel Cockerell, author of Melting Point, for a conversation about a little-known chapter in American and Jewish history: the Galveston Movement. More than a century ago, 10,000 Russian Jews immigrated to Texas through a coordinated effort led in part by Rachel's great-grandfather and inspired by Zionist thinker Israel Zangwill. Rachel shares the personal journey that led her to uncover this buried history and write Melting Point, which explores themes of migration, memory, and identity. Together, Brad and Rachel examine how this movement reframes common narratives about Jewish immigration, the American frontier, and what it means to seek a homeland. They discuss the spiritual dimensions of migration, the complexity of assimilation, and the ongoing relevance of these themes in the context of current immigration debates. This episode weaves together history, personal legacy, and timely questions about belonging, borders, and the meaning of “home” in America. 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

    Weekly Roundup: Mamdani and the Rebirth of Birtherism + Christofascism in the Big Bill

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2025 63:12


    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 begin with a deep dive into the GOP's controversial new bill targeting Medicaid access and how it ties into white Christian nationalist ideology. The conversation moves to JD Vance's pro-natalist rhetoric and his troubling comments on immigration, revealing the racial and religious undertones driving the GOP's messaging. Brad and Dan also discuss Trump's escalating feud with Elon Musk and the disturbing implications of Trump's remarks about Zoran Momani. Throughout the episode, Brad and Dan connect the dots between these stories—examining how immigration, xenophobia, and Christian nationalism are shaping American politics and threatening democratic norms. 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

    It's in the Code ep 152: “All Women Are Women, Pt. 1”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 26:28


    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/ Allie Beth Stuckey insists that gender and biological sex are the same thing, that there are two binary genders, and that gender identity and gender dysphoria are myths. In support of these claims, she offers simplistic appeals to “science” and the story of a woman who “detransitioned” from a transmale identity back to her previous female identity. In this episode, Dan takes a close look at these dimensions of Stuckey's argument to show that gender and sex are not the same thing and that the story of “detransition” she offers actually demonstrates the opposite of what she thinks. Listen in to hear more! 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

    Paying Taxes in the DOGE ERA: Moral Duty, Religious Experience, or Place of Protest?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 47:09


    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/ In this episode of Straight White American Jesus, Brad sits down with Dr. Ruth Braunstein, professor at Johns Hopkins University and author of My Tax Dollars. Together, they explore an unexpected question: Can paying taxes be a moral act? Far from being a dry civic obligation, Braunstein argues that taxation can serve as a collective ritual—one that reflects our values, builds solidarity, and fuels moral debate. The conversation traces the historical evolution of tax narratives in the U.S., from patriotic propaganda during World War II to the rise of anti-tax movements tied to abortion, war, and distrust in government. They also unpack the cultural shift from taxes as a civic duty to something to be avoided or even bragged about, as seen in Donald Trump's infamous comment on dodging taxes. Throughout the episode, Braunstein sheds light on how Americans' attitudes toward taxation reveal deeper fault lines around democracy, governance, and belonging. 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

    Weekly Roundup: US-Iran Tensions and SCOTUS Rulings on Trans Rights

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 57:04


    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/ In this weekly roundup, Dan begins with the escalating tensions between the U.S., Iran, and Israel, examining recent airstrikes and the Trump administration's controversial military decisions. Dan breaks down the fractured response within the MAGA coalition, uncovering the religious and ideological fault lines behind the debate. The episode then turns to the Supreme Court's latest rulings, including: Gender-affirming care for minors Deportation policy limits The reach of nationwide injunctions Parental rights around LGBTQ+ inclusive education Dan highlights the Christian nationalist undertones shaping public discourse and judicial outcomes. He ends with a rare note of optimism, pointing to a surprising cross-ideological ruling upholding the Affordable Care Act as a sign that compromise is still possible. 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

    SWAJ Rewind: It's in the Code ep 54: "Suffering and Persecution"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 24:13


    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/ Why do conservative American Christians and Christian nationalists use the rhetoric of being “attacked” and “persecuted”? Why do they perceive themselves to be “suffering” in the contemporary United States, when they experience pronounced social, cultural, and legal privilege? And how do these ideas link up with the broader valorization of “suffering” within some forms of Christian identity? Dan takes on these issues in this week's episode. 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

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