The American Muslim Podcast

The Cost of Impunity by Imam Tariq I. El-Amin

In this special episode of The American Muslim Podcast, Imam Tariq I. El-Amin shares a spoken essay reflecting on power, impunity, and moral injury. Drawing on historical memory, contemporary events, and ethical reflection, The Cost of Impunity explores how unaccountable state violence harms not only those subjected to it, but also those authorized to carry it out. The essay examines the denial of protection, the psychological consequences of normalized violence, and the quiet damage that spreads through families, institutions, and society when power operates without restraint. This episode invites listeners to consider a difficult but necessary question: what happens when no one feels safe, and what kind of people do we become under those conditions? Written, Read, and Produced by Tariq I. El-Amin Music & Art by Tariq I. El-Amin

Yusuf Jones: The Algorithmic Abolitionist

Exploring AI and Technology Through the Lens of Black and Muslim Heritage In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Imam Tariq I. El-Amin welcomes Yusuf Jones, also known as the Algorithmic Abolitionist. Yusuf shares his journey of understanding and developing technology, rooted in his early exposure to computers through his father, a teacher at Kenwood Academy. They discuss the importance of recognizing Black contributions to technological advancements and how AI can be leveraged to benefit marginalized communities. Yusuf emphasizes the need to merge linguistic strengths inherent in African American communities with AI development. The conversation also touches on the spiritual dimensions of technology, the potential for AI to assist in preserving genealogical records, and the creation of private, localized AI systems to maintain data privacy. The episode encourages listeners to approach AI with intention and awareness, informing how we can integrate technological growth with cultural and historical preservation. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts 00:39 Guest Introduction: Yusuf Jones 02:18 Early Exposure to Technology 04:10 The Importance of Technological Adoption 06:39 AI and Community Involvement 09:54 Challenges and Opportunities in AI 16:15 Language and AI: A Unique Intersection 22:58 Spiritual Dimensions of AI 29:21 Future Prospects and Responsibilities 34:37 Virtual Reality Mishaps 34:50 Encouragement and Discouragement 35:29 AI and Islamic Education 36:16 Personal Journey and Disability Advocacy 36:53 Empowering the Disabled Community 38:59 The Importance of Data Control 39:31 Steps Towards Independence 40:44 Open Source AI and Genealogy Projects 43:04 Family History and Technology 45:42 The Power of Technology in Preserving History 58:30 Concluding Thoughts and Future Vision Image: Tariq I. El-Amin > Music: ‘Boss’ — written and produced by Tariq I. El-Amin > © LifeStar Development LLC. All rights reserved. > Access the full playlist at https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpA8DYTTVbDPucKeHkHFg6iRfzuFhlgEL&si=nXYoBDCRP6RYD-f- [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpA8DYTTVbDPucKeHkHFg6iRfzuFhlgEL&si=nXYoBDCRP6RYD-f-] > The Algorithmic Abolitionist on Substack [https://substack.com/@algorithmicabolitionist?r=5bp5ho&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile]

From Philly to Global Leadership: Imam Idris Abdul-Zahir

Journey of Leadership and Community with Imam Idris Abdul Zahir In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Imam Tariq El-Amin welcomes Idris Abdul Zahir, an esteemed Obama Foundation USA Leader, resident imam, deputy CIO, and filmmaker. Idris shares his deep-rooted journey in the Muslim community, heavily influenced by his parents' active roles. He recounts his personal transformation from reluctance to embrace leadership roles during high school, college, and eventually as an imam. Idris discusses the challenges and responsibilities of leadership, his views on community service, and his experiences in national and international leadership programs, including a recent cohort with the Obama Foundation. Emphasizing the need for constant self-improvement and community engagement, Idris inspires through his dedication to serving and uplifting the community. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:31 Guest Introduction: Idris Abdul Zahir 02:01 Early Influences and Family Background 03:44 Journey to Leadership 04:58 High School and College Years 06:54 Professional and Community Involvement 08:16 Leadership Philosophy and Development 23:20 Obama Foundation and Broader Impact 28:49 Recognizing Leadership Challenges 30:19 Finding Strength in Faith 32:27 Personal Growth and Community Impact 34:46 Historical Context and Future Aspirations 41:59 Balancing Multiple Roles 47:05 Global Perspectives and Interfaith Efforts 52:16 Concluding Reflections

What’s Wrong with You? A Candid Conversation with Omar Yamini.

EPISODE 34 | WHAT’S WRONG WITH YOU? A CANDID CONVERSATION WITH OMAR YAMINI 00:00 – Introduction I introduce my brother and longtime friend, Omar Yamini, and set the stage for this special candid episode Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You 03:10 – Growing Up & Early Influences Omar reflects on our shared experiences, early decisions, and the road that shaped his youth Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You 08:40 – The Path to Incarceration What led Omar to prison, and how he came to terms with the reality of a 15-year sentence Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You .14:55 – Aha Moments Behind Bars Key insights and turning points during incarceration that changed Omar’s perspective on life and responsibility Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You .21:20 – Writing What’s Wrong with You? The story behind his book, and why he felt compelled to share lessons for young people and their parents Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You .28:45 – Black Youth & Popular Culture Omar critiques the influence of entertainers, hip-hop, and media on Black youth and how culture can either uplift or harm Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You .36:10 – The Role of Parents Why Omar believes that engaged parents are the most important factor in raising healthy, resilient Black children Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You .42:30 – Pushback & Dialogue I push back on some of Omar’s points, sparking dialogue about personal accountability, community, and faith Omar Yamini_Whats_Wrong With You .49:00 – Closing Reflections & Call to Action Omar shares final words of encouragement, and I remind listeners to support him by purchasing his book 👉 Get Omar’s book: What’s Wrong with You? What You, Your Children Need to Know About My 15-Year Imprisonment. Contact Omar directly at yaminiomar@gmail.com to purchase a copy. Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0EtyEV39GU7wYj8pVlOp9k?si=1013911dc4c44810], Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-american-muslim-podcast/id1790731175], and other major streaming platforms. Listen on your smart speaker.  📲 Stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook Follow @TheAmericanMuslimPodcast for episode updates, highlights, and community reflections. Follow host @ImamTariqElAmin for behind-the-scenes content, reflections, and more.

Reflections on Civil Rights, Journalism, and Legacy with Ayesha K. Mustafaa

Reflections on Civil Rights, Journalism, and Legacy with Ayesha K. Mustafaa In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, host Imam Tariq El-Amin engages in a profound conversation with Ayesha K. Mustafaa, editor of the Muslim Journal and an assistant professor of Mass Communications. Ayesha shares stories from her upbringing in a civil rights-active family in Mississippi and discusses the pivotal roles of historic figures like Ida B. Wells and Emmett Till in shaping her path. She reflects on the responsibilities of journalism in recording history, the perpetual relevance of civil rights, and the need for fostering like-minded alliances. Ayesha also delves into the significant impact and evolution of black media and the crucial role of storytelling and truth in the age of 'fake news.' Finally, the episode touches on the importance of succession planning in movements and institutions to continue the fight for justice and equality. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:29 Guest Introduction: Ayesha K. Mustafaa 00:56 Formative Years and Family Influence 01:59 Civil Rights Movement and Mississippi's Impact 03:16 Odessa Hawthorne's Legacy 06:49 The Role of Newspapers in History 12:01 Ida B. Wells: A Legacy of Journalism and Activism 18:15 Journey to Journalism and Conversion to Islam 23:09 Challenges and Changes in Journalism 26:19 The Importance of Black Media 31:42 Fake News and the Pursuit of Truth 34:37 Navigating the Era of AI and Fake News 35:45 The Importance of Succession Planning 39:14 Media's Role in Social Justice 43:40 The Power of Independent Journalism 48:21 Historical Figures and Their Impact 55:02 The Role of Religion in Social Movements 59:20 Reflections on Personal and Collective Responsibility 01:02:00 The Legacy of African American Muslims 01:06:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Subscribe to the Muslim Journal at https://muslimjournal.net/ [https://muslimjournal.net/] Learn more about the International Museum of Muslim Cultures at https://www.muslimmuseum.org/ [https://www.muslimmuseum.org/] Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0EtyEV39GU7wYj8pVlOp9k?si=1013911dc4c44810], Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-american-muslim-podcast/id1790731175], and other major streaming platforms. 📲 Stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook Follow @TheAmericanMuslimPodcast for episode updates, highlights, and community reflections. Follow host @ImamTariqElAmin for behind-the-scenes content, reflections, and more.