A Way Beyond the Rainbow

Conscience Over Convenience: A Digital Hijrah Aug 3, 2025 328 In this short but urgent episode, I share why I’ve chosen to leave Big Tech services like Google (among others) in light of their complicity in human rights violations and global injustices. As Muslims - and as human beings - we have a moral obligation to act. I’ve moved to Proton Mail and begun supporting ethical, open-source alternatives. I invite you to begin your own journey toward digital eth

Introduction: "Voices from Beyond the Rainbow" Podcast Jul 4, 2025 961 Introductory episode to the new podcast series, "Voices from Beyond the Rainbow"."Voices from Beyond the Rainbow" podcast link here."Voices from Beyond the Rainbow" Sign-up Form"One Soul" Sponsorship program link here.Background music: "Pandemia" by MaxKoMusic (Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0)Send as an anonymous one-way text message

Sequel Podcast: Voices from Beyond the Rainbow Apr 18, 2025 294 A glimpse into the new sequel podcast series, "Voices from Beyond the Rainbow", starting summer 2025, inshaAllah.Voices from Beyond the Rainbow podcast websiteTo sign up as a guest: Sign-up FormBackground music: "Perfection" by MaxKoMusic (Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0)Send as an anonymous one-way text message

#88 - Podcast Finale Mar 25, 2022 5532 In the podcast finale, we take a look at the entire journey across all five seasons and reflect on key take-home messages and memorable words from my guests and co-hosts. We wrap up with acknowledgments, a dedication, and final words and prayers.Link to A Way Beyond the Rainbow bookBackground music used in the episode:(0:39-4:14) Now We Are Free (theme from Gladiator), 2CELLOS(4:14-7:39) River Flo

Bloopers! Mar 23, 2022 1407 A blooper reel featuring many of the out-takes with my co-hosts, Amina and Aadam, that didn't make it to the final cut.Send as an anonymous one-way text message

#87 - For Imams, Chaplains and Community Leaders Mar 21, 2022 6616 This episode is a discussion with Imam Dawud Walid on the current challenges facing imams, chaplains and community leaders given the current global pro-LGBT socio-political climate, and how we, as Muslim communities, can help our imams and community leaders navigate these challenges so they can, in turn, effectively help their communities.What are some of the struggles that imams and community lea

#86 - For Teachers and Educators Mar 18, 2022 6101 This episode is a discussion with Br. Yahya Van Rooy on the current challenges facing teachers, educators and school administrators given the LGBT paradigm, and how Muslims parents and teachers can navigate them together.How can we provide the Muslim youth with firm footing so as not to be swayed by modern media and pop culture? How can we help students navigate challenges with regards to the LGBT

#85 - Ty and Danielle Mansfield's Story: Faith, Love and Vulnerability (Part II) Mar 14, 2022 5653 This is part II of a two-episode series with Dr. Ty Mansfield and his wife Danielle where we talk about their personal experience with their mixed-orientation marriage.In this episode, we dive deep into spiritual themes, as well as how we can support men and women experiencing SSA or GD in our communities. How important is recognizing one's Divine purpose in our individual and collective jour

#84 - Ty and Danielle Mansfield's Story: Faith, Love and Vulnerability (Part I) Mar 11, 2022 7168 This is part I of a two-episode series with Dr. Ty Mansfield and his wife Danielle where we talk about their personal experience with their mixed-orientation marriage.In this episode, we explore Ty and Danielle's personal journeys, how far Ty has come with his own journey of healing and growth, as well as Danielle’s perspective as a wife of a man who experiences SSA. We talk about spiritualit

#83 - For Current and Potential Spouses Mar 7, 2022 3883 This episode is dedicated to current and potential spouses of individuals experiencing gender nonconformity, same-sex attractions and/or gender dysphoria.In this episode, I read out survey responses sent by members of the online Straight Struggle community addressing current and potential spouses, and we discuss pertinent themes for spouses and answer frequently-asked questions. Why didn't he

#82 - For Parents and Families (IV): On Community Healing and General FAQs Mar 4, 2022 6518 This is part IV of a 4-episode series dedicated to parents and family members of individuals experiencing gender nonconformity, same-sex attractions (SSA) and/or gender dysphoria (GD).In this episode, Aadam and I wrap up the discussion on healing with the topic of community healing, and then we answer frequently-asked questions from parents and family members of individuals experiencing SSA or GD.

#81 - For Parents and Families (III): On the Work of Relational Healing Feb 28, 2022 6525 This is part III of a 4-episode series dedicated to parents and family members of individuals experiencing gender nonconformity, same-sex attractions (SSA) and/or gender dysphoria (GD).In this episode, Aadam and I discuss practical tips and advice for parents and families of individuals experiencing SSA and GD, and we tackle proper communication skills and conflict resolution techniques. To what e

#80 - For Parents and Families (II): On Foundations for Relational Healing Feb 25, 2022 4948 This is part II of a 4-episode series dedicated to parents and family members of individuals experiencing gender nonconformity, same-sex attractions (SSA) and/or gender dysphoria (GD).In this episode, Aadam and I discuss the notions of gender confusion in childhood and highlight important considerations for parents dealing with young boys and girls as well as adolescents experiencing gender noncon

#79 - For Parents and Families (I): On Personal Healing Feb 21, 2022 7014 This is part I of a 4-episode series dedicated to parents and family members of individuals experiencing gender nonconformity, same-sex attractions (SSA) and/or gender dysphoria (GD).In this episode, Aadam and I read out survey responses sent by members of the online Straight Struggle community addressing parents and siblings, and we cover pertinent themes related to personal healing for parents a

#78 - On Shar'i Perspectives: Gender Transitioning and Contemporary Issues Feb 18, 2022 2831 This is part II of a 2-episode series with Sh. Mustafa Umar addressing Shar'i perspectives related to gender nonconformity, gender dysphoria and transgenderism.Is gender transitioning unconditionally prohibited in Islam or are there particular exceptions? How do we, as families and communities, deal with individuals undergoing gender transitioning? How do we deal with individuals who identif

#77 - On Shar'i Perspectives: Gender Roles and Gender Nonconformity Feb 14, 2022 3802 This is part I of a 2-episode series with Sh. Mustafa Umar addressing Shar'i perspectives related to gender nonconformity, gender dysphoria and transgenderism.Are the gender roles defined by Islam rigid or flexible compared to modern Western notions of gender roles? If gender roles are, to a degree, socially determined, what are the permissible limits of not conforming to such gender roles? W

#76 - On Gender Dysphoria and Transgenderism: Contemporary Challenges Feb 11, 2022 5912 In this episode, Br. Mobeen Vaid and I discuss the Islamic perspectives on gender-reassignment surgeries as well as the ripple effects of the modern day transgender movement.What are the major Islamic fatawa regarding sex-reassignment surgeries within Sunni and Shi'a Islam? On what grounds were such fatwas issued to begin with? Do communities like the Hijras in Pakistan and Bangladesh as well

#75 - On Gender Dysphoria and Transgenderism: Medical Perspectives Feb 7, 2022 6530 In this episode, we dive deep into the topics of gender dysphoria and transgenderism from scientific and medical perspectives, by exploring the most recent research and developments on the topic.Are there biological factors that contribute to transgenderism? Is gender dysphoria one entity or are there different kinds of it? What is the genesis of gender dysphoria and how is it treated nowadays? Is

#74 - On Gender Atypical Individuals and Intersex Feb 4, 2022 6659 In this episode, we continue our discussion of gender nonconformity with Br. Mobeen Vaid, and we discuss the notions of gender atypical individuals from an Islamic perspective, as well as the concepts of intersex/disorders of sexual development from a medical perspective.What are the differences between al-khunthā al-mushkil (ambiguous khunthā), al-mukhannath al-khilqī (congenital mukhannath) and

#73 - On Gender and Gender Nonconformity Jan 31, 2022 4969 With this episode, we begin a series of episodes addressing the topics of gender, gender nonconformity, gender dysphoria and transgenderism.In this episode, Br. Mobeen Vaid joins me in a discussion on gender and gender nonconformity in the modern world and from an Islamic legal perspective. Why are we witnessing an explosion of gender and sexual identities nowadays, and where is this expansion hea

#72 - On Contemporary Issues and Shar'i Perspectives (Part II) Jan 28, 2022 3645 This is part II of a 2-episode series with Sh. Mustafa Umar addressing contemporary issues and Shar'i perspectives related to same-sex attractions and gender identity issues.Is Islam a "homophobic" or "transphobic" religion? Where do we, as Muslim communities, stand on "LGBT rights" and same-sex marriage? Is it permissible for me to attend a same-sex marriage? Ho

#71 - On Contemporary Issues and Shar'i Perspectives (Part I) Jan 24, 2022 4747 This is part I of a 2-episode series with Sh. Mustafa Umar addressing contemporary issues and Shar'i perspectives related to same-sex attractions and gender identity issues.How can parents, family members and friends support and embrace individuals with same-sex attractions and/or gender dysphoria without compromising their values and Deen? How do we deal with men or women in our families/cir

#70 - On Revisionist Arguments (Part II) Jan 21, 2022 5038 This is part II of a 2-episode series with Br. Mobeen Vaid addressing revisionist arguments pertaining to homosexuality within Islam.In this episode, Mobeen and I discuss the punishments of sodomy according to Islamic Shari'a, to what extent Islam can be considered a "sex positive" religion, as well as the notions of marriage and celibacy for men and women who experience same-sex at

#69 - On Revisionist Arguments (Part I) Jan 17, 2022 4190 This is part I of a 2-episode series with Br. Mobeen Vaid addressing revisionist arguments pertaining to homosexuality within Islam.In this episode, Mobeen and I discuss the sociocultural backdrop of this kind of revisionism, particularly within Islam, and we address relevant arguments related to terminology as well as the story of the people of Prophet Lut (PBUH). What are the broader assumptions

#68 - Between Toxic Masculinity and Radical Feminism Jan 14, 2022 5034 In this episode, we tackle the notions of toxic masculinity and discuss the waves of opposing feminist movements with their ripple effects on the global community. We also highlight the importance of the Prophetic example in paving the way for God-conscious, healthy masculinity.What are the "Man Rules" and "Woman Rules" that we take for granted, and how do they contribute to to

#67 - On Politics, Genderspeak and a Queer New World (Part II) Jan 10, 2022 5851 This is part II of a 2-episode series that addresses the history and politics of the gay liberation movement, the influence of the LGBT movement on countless aspects of everyday life and how far things have progressed in a few decades.How has the LGBT movement influenced media outlets, religious discourse, school curricula and global corporations over the past few decades? Why and how did the Amer

#66 - On Politics, Genderspeak and a Queer New World (Part I) Jan 7, 2022 5931 With this episode, we commence the fifth and final season of the podcast which focuses on sociopolitical and religious topics, themes related to gender and transgenderism, as well as broader topics of relevance to the larger community. The season premieres with a 2-episode series that addresses the history and politics of the gay liberation movement, the influence of the LGBT movement on countles

#65 - On Self-Esteem (Part II) Oct 22, 2021 4256 This is part II of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-esteem and becoming more confident in our lives.In this season finale, Aadam and I discuss imposter syndrome, how to deal with fear of rejection and criticism, as well as practical tips to boosting one's confidence. What are the different kinds of imposter syndrome and how can we overcome them? What's the difference between feedb

#64 - On Self-Esteem (Part I) Oct 18, 2021 4511 This is part I of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-esteem and becoming more confident in our lives.In this episode, Aadam and I introduce self-esteem and self-confidence, touch upon some relevant spiritual themes and dive into the six pillars of self-esteem. How does living consciously contribute to my self-esteem? How can I practice more self-acceptance on a daily basis and take responsibi

#63 - On Self-Discipline (Part II) Oct 15, 2021 5662 This is part II of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-discipline and building healthy habits.In this episode, Aadam and I discuss building atomic habits, overcoming procrastination and failure, and developing morning routines. How can I build healthy habits consistently and overcome some of my bad habits? How can I deal with distractions in my life and overcome procrastination? Why is a morni

#62 - On Self-Discipline (Part I) Oct 11, 2021 6164 This is part I of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-discipline and building healthy habits.In this episode, Aadam and I outline the differences between self-discipline, motivation, willpower and self-control, highlight the benefits of self-discipline, and discuss practical methods to cultivating that in our daily lives. How can I prevent my "monkey mind" from taking over when I try

#61 - On Sexual Abuse (Part II) Oct 1, 2021 4576 *TRIGGER WARNING: Episode discusses themes of sexual abuse, assault and rape* This is part II of a 2-episode series on the topic of sexual abuse, assault and rape. In this episode, we discuss the process of defining and processing sexual abuse experiences and outline stages of healing, practical work and different coping strategies. We also cover the topic of rape, as well as the intricacies invol

#60 - On Sexual Abuse (Part I) Sep 27, 2021 5318 *TRIGGER WARNING: Episode discusses themes of sexual abuse, assault and rape*This is part I of a 2-episode series on the topic of sexual abuse, assault and rape.In this episode, we tackle some relevant definitions and statistics, discuss some reasons why survivors do not disclose their sexual abuse experiences, and highlight some of the psychological and emotional repercussions of sexual abuse. We

#59 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part IV) Sep 24, 2021 2719 This is the fourth and last part of our 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we examine together relevant spiritual themes on the journey of sexual recovery, including patience, perseverance, surrender, repentance and going back to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala. We also discuss many lessons from the story of Prophet Yunus (PBUH)

#58 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part III) Sep 20, 2021 4676 This is part III of a 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we examine together the withdrawal period, potential pitfalls and mind games on the journey of healing and recovery, as well as practical tips and tools that we can use on our journey. We also talk about helpful apps, websites and support systems, how to deal with periods

SOS Meditation (3): Turning Temptations into Divine Connection Sep 17, 2021 1029 A 17-minute meditation that involves mindfulness, breathing and connecting with Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala using some of His Divine Names, reorienting our being as we call unto Him and ask for His help.Background music from Benjamin Tissot (Bensound).Send as an anonymous one-way text message

SOS Meditation (2): Breathing and Body Scan Sep 17, 2021 781 A 13-minute meditation focused on breathing and a full body scan to practice mindfulness and demystify triggers.Background music from Benjamin Tissot (Bensound).Send as an anonymous one-way text message

SOS Meditation (1): Grounding and Breathing Sep 17, 2021 599 A 10-minute meditation focused on grounding and breathing to practice mindfulness and demystify triggers.Background music from Benjamin Tissot (Bensound).Send as an anonymous one-way text message

#57 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part II) Sep 17, 2021 4244 This is part II of a 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we discuss many practical techniques to help us demystify sexual triggers and overcome the urges of sexual "acting out". How can I communicate with my "inner addict" and deconstruct my urges? How do mindfulness and conscious awareness exercises help me o

#56 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part I) Sep 13, 2021 3870 This is part I of a 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we discuss what addiction is, from physiological, emotional and personal perspectives. We also look at the damaging effects of porn and the horrifying realities associated with the porn industry.Do I have a compulsive sexual behavior disorder? How does compulsive porn use,

#55 - On Masturbation: Thinking Beyond Black and White Sep 10, 2021 2834 In this episode, we explore the topic of masturbation comprehensively, from its legal (fiqh), physiological and psychological angles, taking into consideration particular complexities and nuances relevant to men and women dealing with same-sex attractions. We also discuss practical tips and tools to help us keep masturbation in check in our lives.Under what conditions can masturbation be considere

#54 - On Islamic Sexual Ethics and Gender Norms Sep 6, 2021 2811 In this episode, we explore together some of the ripple effects of the sexual revolution and gay liberation movement, discuss the nature of morality in Islam, and introduce relevant sexual ethics and gender norms within Islam based on the male-female dichotomy. What are some of the tangible effects of the sexual revolution that we witness nowadays? How do we understand morality, sexuality and gend

#53 - On Setting Boundaries (Part II) Aug 20, 2021 3715 This is part II of a 2-episode series on setting boundaries. In this episode, Amina and I discuss setting boundaries with people who have narcissistic tendencies, how to prepare mentally for any pushback, and how to avoid being pulled into the arena of what many psychologists call "pathological narcissists".What are some characteristics and behaviors of "pathological narcissists&quo

#52 - On Setting Boundaries (Part I) Aug 16, 2021 6010 This is part I of a 2-episode series on setting boundaries. In this episode, Amina and I discuss what boundaries are, how to define your own boundaries, communicate them and maintain them, as well as techniques on how to say "no" and how to clearly communicate your needs with others in your life.Are my boundaries loose, rigid or flexible? What are the three main types of boundaries, and

#51 - On Healing Codependency and Emotional Dependency (Part II) Aug 13, 2021 5328 This is part II of a 2-episode series on healing codependency and emotional dependency. In this episode, Amina and I discuss how to reclaim our place and power in relationships, how to help men reclaim their masculinity, how to reconnect with our path and purpose, as well as how to begin to heal emotional dependency.How do I feel more secure in my friendships and romantic relationships? How can a

#50 - On Healing Codependency and Emotional Dependency (Part I) Aug 9, 2021 4269 This is part I of a 2-episode series on healing codependency and emotional dependency. In this episode, Amina and I discuss how codependency shares similar traits with addiction, and we explore some of the goals, expectations and practical tips on the healing journey, starting with reclaiming our personal power.How can I stop people pleasing and focus on my own growth instead? What aspects of self

#49 - On the Characteristics of Codependency and Emotional Dependency Aug 6, 2021 5262 In our second episode in the series on attachments, codependency and emotional dependency, Amina and I discuss the mental, emotional and behavioral characteristics that many individuals dealing with codependency and/or emotional dependency tend to exhibit. What is the difference between caring and care taking? Why do I avoid confrontation and resort to people pleasing? Why do I hide my mistakes an

#48 - On the Origins of Emotional Attachments and Codependency Aug 2, 2021 3508 In a series of episodes on emotional attachments, dependency and codependency, my friend Amina joins me to discuss the origins and characteristics of these themes as well as relevant and practical healing and recovery work.In this episode, we talk about the origins of attachment styles in adulthood, the four styles of adult attachment, and we introduce the topic of codependency. Why am I anxious

#47 - On Inner Child Work and Reparenting Jul 23, 2021 5337 An important theme along the healing and recovery journey is inner child work and re-parenting. In this episode, we dive into childhood attachment theory, introduce the inner child, inner parent and inner adult, as well as the inner child archetypes, and we talk about practical tools of inner child work and the reparenting process.Who is my inner child and how different is he/she from my inner adu

#46 - On Healing Complex Trauma Jul 19, 2021 5746 This is part 4 of a four-episode series on understanding the origins and characteristics of complex trauma as well as paving a holistic path of healing.In this episode, Aadam and I talk about a holistic approach to healing complex trauma using the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model, wrapping up our series on complex trauma.How do proper nutrition and sleep impact my healing and recovery? What are s

#45 - On the Effects and Characteristics of Complex Trauma (Part II) Jul 16, 2021 5304 *General trigger warning: episode involves discussion of traumatic events and may be triggering to some listeners*This is part 3 of a four-episode series on understanding the origins and characteristics of complex trauma as well as paving a holistic path of healing.In this episode, Aadam and I continue our talk on the effects and characteristics of complex trauma by discussing interpersonal and re

#44 - On the Effects and Characteristics of Complex Trauma (Part I) Jul 12, 2021 6757 *General trigger warning: episode involves discussion of traumatic events and may be triggering to some listeners*This is part 2 of a four-episode series on understanding the origins and characteristics of complex trauma as well as paving a holistic path of healing.In this episode, Aadam and I talk about how complex trauma impacts our self-identity and self-perception, contributes to a shame narra

#43 - On the Origins of Complex Trauma Jul 9, 2021 6697 *General trigger warning: episode involves discussion of traumatic events and may be triggering to some listeners*My friend Aadam joins me on a four-episode series that focuses on understanding the origins and characteristics of complex trauma as well as paving a holistic path of healing.In this episode, we talk about the definition of complex trauma and factors that lead to it, the survival brain

#42 - On Self-Awareness Jul 5, 2021 3284 In this episode, we begin our series on healing and recovery work by covering the basics of conscious self-awareness and mindfulness. We discuss how most of our time is spent on auto-pilot mode and how we can bring our minds back into the present moment through simple daily practice. We also talk about the importance of knowing ourselves and our histories, as well as what to expect on the journey

#41 - On Words and a Vision of Healing Jul 2, 2021 3297 With this episode, we commence season 4 which is dedicated to healing and recovery work. In the season 4 premiere, we examine the effects of words; there are words that hurt and words that heal. We also present a working vision for healing that will pave the way for the myriad of topics to come this season, inshaAllah.What are some words that ought to be revised in our conversations, particularly

Teaser - Seasons 4 and 5 May 24, 2021 321 A glimpse into the topics coming up in seasons 4 and 5 of the podcast, inshaAllah.Send as an anonymous one-way text message

#40 - Alan's Story: "Making Peace with My Painful Past" Nov 23, 2020 9466 In the last episode of this season, my friend Alan joins me and shares with us many gems from his journey of healing, recovery and overcoming same-sex attractions, attachments and codependency. Alan shares with us how support systems have helped him in his journey of healing, and he shares lots of advice on relationships, marriage and intimacy from his 40+ years of marriage.*Trigger warning: this

#39 - On Marital Intimacy and Sex (Part II) Nov 20, 2020 4979 *General trigger warning: Episode involves discussion of intimacy and sexual relations with graphic details. This episode is flagged for explicit content.*This is part II of a 2-episode series on marital intimacy and sexual relations, answering frequently asked questions on these topics, with a focus on men and women experiencing same-sex attractions. Joining me in both episodes is sex therapist D

#38 - On Marital Intimacy and Sex (Part I) Nov 16, 2020 6493 *General trigger warning: Episode involves discussion of intimacy and sexual relations with graphic details. This episode is flagged for explicit content.*This is part I of a 2-episode series on marital intimacy and sexual relations, answering frequently asked questions on these topics, with a focus on men and women experiencing same-sex attractions. Joining me in both episodes is sex therapist Dr

#37 - On Marriage and Celibacy (Part II) Nov 13, 2020 4027 This is part II of a 2-episode series on marriage and celibacy, answering frequently-asked questions on the topics, with a focus on SSA-related matters.In this episode, we focus on SSA-related questions within the context of marriage, and we address the topic of celibacy as a legitimate life choice. Is it honest of me to get married without telling my spouse about my SSA? What are some recommendat

#36 - On Marriage and Celibacy (Part I) Nov 9, 2020 4699 This is part I of a 2-episode series on marriage and celibacy, answering frequently-asked questions on the topics, with a focus on SSA-related matters.In this episode, we address general questions and misconceptions about marriage. What are the legal rulings on marriage, and when would it actually be discouraged or haram? What if I am pressured by my family and/or community to get married, how do

#35 - Chris's Story: "Stuck on 'Step Minus One'?" The Medical Aspects of Sexual Recovery Nov 6, 2020 5021 In this episode, Chris joins me again from Melbourne, Australia, to talk about his own journey of healing, relapses and recovery, involving decades of therapy and being part of support groups, as well as findings answers and help in the fields of neuroscience, biology and functional medicine. He shares with us insights and wisdoms gained throughout six decades of life, after having left the gay li

#34 - On Support Systems: "Mankind Project" and the "Noble Man" Nov 2, 2020 3937 In our last episode on support systems, Br. Ali Jaffery joins me again as a guest speaker and talks to us about the Mankind Project with its different services, like the New Warrior Training and integration groups, as well as a separate initiative called the Noble Man.How does the Mankind Project help men in general with their growth, healing and masculine identity? What is New Warrior Training we

#33 - On Support Systems: "Joel 2:25" Oct 30, 2020 3786 In this episode, Jeremy Schwab from the US and Alan Alencar from Brazil join me as guest speakers and talk to us about "Joel 2:25" and the international initiatives associated with the organization.What does "Joel 2:25" stand for? How has "Joel 2:25" evolved throughout the years, and what are some of the services provided for individuals who experience same-sex attrac

#32 - On Support Systems: "Brothers Road" and the Journeys Oct 26, 2020 3669 In this episode, Mr. Richard Wyler from the US joins me as a guest speaker and talks to us about Brothers Road and the services offered by his organization.How has "Brothers Road" evolved throughout the years from "People Can Change"? What are "Journey into Manhood" (JIM) weekends, and what do they involve in terms of bonding and healing work? What are other journeys

#31 - On Support Systems: "Homosexuals Anonymous" and the 14 Steps Oct 23, 2020 3995 In this episode, Robert Gollwitzer from Germany joins me as a guest speaker and talks to us about Homosexuals Anonymous and the 14-step program.How are the 14 steps different from the 12 steps, and what do they entail? What is the focus of Homosexuals Anonymous, and how does it help individuals struggling with unwanted same-sex attractions? These and other questions are explored in this episode.Li

#30 - On Support Systems: 12-Step Programs and Sexual Recovery Programs Oct 19, 2020 3201 In this episode, Chris from Australia joins me as a guest speaker and talks to us about 12-step programs as well as sexual recovery programs, like Sexaholics Anonymous (SA), Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA), among others.How did 12-step programs evolve throughout the years and what do they entail? Who are "sponsors" and how do they support us with our recovery? What are some of the

#29 - On Support Systems: "Straight Struggle" Oct 16, 2020 3944 In this episode, Br. Yousef Salam from Canada joins me as a guest speaker and talks to us about the online support group Straight Struggle. How did Straight Struggle evolve throughout the years from the "Yahoo!" to "Discord" platforms? What are the services that the online support group provides? What are the demographics of members who benefit from such services? These questio

#28 - On Support Systems: "Strong Support" Oct 12, 2020 2893 In this episode, Br. Ali Jaffery from the UK joins me as a guest speaker and talks to us about his organization, Strong Support, which aims to help Muslims experiencing unwanted same-sex lust.What is the mission and vision of Strong Support? What are the services that it provides? What are the demographics of members who benefit from such services? These questions and others are explored in this e

#27 - On Support Systems: Friends, Family and Local Support Groups Oct 9, 2020 4685 With season 3, we begin a series of episodes that address different kinds of support systems and the ways they can help us on our journeys of growth and healing. In this episode, we address local support groups, including friends, family members and colleagues, and we answer some frequently asked questions. What are the different kinds of friendship with the same sex that one can cultivate, and wh

#26 - Amina's Story: "Coming Home to Allah From a Same-Sex Marriage" Sep 18, 2020 9026 In this season finale, my friend Amina joins me as a guest speaker to share with us her story, from same-sex relationships and marriage, being on “spiritual life support” as she calls it, and living the “progressive lifestyle”, to returning back to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala and changing her life for Him. *Trigger warning: the episode covers deep emotional topics like abandonment and divorce,

#25 - On Spiritual Awakening (and a Wrap-Up!) Sep 11, 2020 4089 In our last episode on spiritual reflections, Hashim and I revisit the topic of repentance, and we discuss spiritual awakening, the characteristics of that station and some things to watch out for when we're experiencing the "highs" as well as the "lows". We also wrap up and summarize the spiritual themes discussed during season 2 of the podcast.What is spiritual awakening

#24 - On Shahawat and Curbing Desires Sep 11, 2020 5586 In this episode, Hashim and I talk about desires and shahawat: their different kinds, the wisdom behind them, and the many ways to help us curb them in our journeys, particularly for individuals who experience same-sex attractions.Is it only Shaytan that whispers to us to inflame our desires? What are the different degrees of the nafs (self), and how are they relevant to our journey in life? What

#23 - On the Story of the People of Lut (PBUH) Sep 4, 2020 5431 In this episode, Hashim and I discuss the story of the people of Lut (PBUH) and reflect on many relevant themes, with a focus on our struggle as men and women experiencing same-sex attractions in this day and age who are committed to staying true to Allah and His deen. We tackle the topics of pride and remorse, the ways in which we may be similar to and different from the people of Lut (PBUH), how

#22 - On Adam and Eve, Temptation and Repentance (Part II) Aug 28, 2020 4195 This is a 2-episode series where my friend Hashim and I dissect the story of Adam and Eve, peace be upon them, as well as temptation and repentance and offer many reflections on how this story is relevant to us as men and women experiencing SSA.In part II of this series, we talk about how to use Allah's provisions to repent and go back to Him, starting with remembrance and prayer, the importa

#21 - On Adam and Eve, Temptation and Repentance (Part I) Aug 28, 2020 4426 This is a 2-episode series where my friend Hashim and I dissect the story of Adam and Eve, peace be upon them, as well as temptation and repentance and offer many reflections on how this story is relevant to us as men and women experiencing SSA.In part I of this series, we go back to the origin of the creation of mankind: how God glorified man and destined him for greatness, how the devil lurks in

#20 - On David and Jonathan, Shams and Rumi Aug 21, 2020 3435 In this episode, we explore together the concept of love for the sake of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala, presenting the examples of two pairs of giants: David (PBUH) and Jonathan, as well as Shams and Rumi. Pure love between members of the same sex can be very profound, healing and uplifting, such that even poetry fails to describe its magnitude.What was the kind of love that these two pairs share

#19 - On Gifts, Divine Openings and Role Models Aug 14, 2020 3505 In this episode, we talk about gifts and talents, as well as Divine openings that come along with SSA. Whether spiritual openings, emotional intelligence or extraordinary talents across different fields, men and women with SSA have God-given gifts, which, when used wisely, can end up changing the world. We also explore some stories of men and women throughout history, among whom some had strong an

#18 - On Attachments and Surrender Aug 7, 2020 5158 In this episode, Aadam and I discuss the topic of attachments, fear of letting go, and sacrifice for the sake of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala. We dissect the story of Ibrahim, Hajar and Isma'il (peace and blessings be upon them all), looking at their trials from that particular lens. We also examine the statement of Tawheed (monotheism): "There is no god but Allah" from a lens of

#17 - On Hardships, Trials and Tribulations (Part III) Jul 31, 2020 3670 In our third and last part of the three-episode series on hardships, trials and tribulations, we talk about how trials and hardships purify us, the rewards hidden in them and how challenges in life lead to self-improvement and the development of gratitude and contentment. We end this series of episodes by synthesizing all themes discussed and reflecting on the story of Prophet Yusuf/Joseph (PBUH).

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