Episode 14

full
Published on:

18th Apr 2025

Scholar, Shepherd, and Seed Sower: Dr. Safiyyah Kai El-Amin’s Vision for Faith, Food, and Liberation

Scholar, Shepherd, and Seed Sower: Dr. Safiyyah Kai El-Amin’s Vision for Faith, Food, and Liberation

In this episode of the American Muslim Podcast, hosted by Imam Tariq El-Amin and brought to you by Bayan on Demand, Dr. Safiyyah Kai El-Amin joins the conversation. Dr. El-Amin is an esteemed American Muslim scholar, interfaith advocate, certified chaplain, and author who currently serves at Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee. The episode delves into Dr. El-Amin's unique upbringing in a multi-faith family and her academic journey, which ultimately led to her conversion to Islam. She discusses her dedication to bridging faith communities, resilience through collective action, and how her work is deeply influenced by her late mother's values of unity and racial uplift. Dr. El-Amin also highlights her practical work with the SEED program, combining education, social, and environmental justice, including a focus on community gardening and sustainability. This insightful episode touches on themes of socialization, resilience, interfaith initiatives, and the holistic influence of Islamic education on community service and activism.

00:00 Introduction to Bayan on Demand

01:03 Welcome to the American Muslim Podcast

01:33 Meet Dr. Safiyyah Kai El-Amin

02:40 Dr. El-Amin's Unique Upbringing

05:11 Influence of Family and Early Experiences

06:28 Journey to Islam

07:19 Impact of Istanbul Experience

13:04 Challenges and Realizations

25:34 Influence of Dr. El-Amin's Mother

31:46 A Mother's Wisdom and Reflections on Faith

32:55 The Intersection of Faith and Education

35:59 Interfaith Initiatives in Higher Education

37:14 The SEED Program and Community Gardening

38:05 Homesteading and Community Engagement

43:27 Deconstructing Pastoral Theology

45:42 Empowering Women Through Resilience Programs

50:37 Reflections on Academic and Spiritual Growth

57:25 Supporting Muslim Contributions and Education


https://theseedprogrambykai.com/about/


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Cover Art & Intro Music - Tariq I. El-Amin @ImamTariqElamin

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About the Podcast

The American Muslim Podcast
The voices, stories, and perspectives shaping the American Muslim Experience
The American Muslim Podcast is your gateway to exploring the diverse and dynamic stories shaping the American Muslim experience. Hosted by Imam Tariq I. El-Amin, and brought to you by Bayan On Demand, this podcast shines a spotlight on the voices of leaders who are making a profound impact in their communities—many of whom are students, alumni, and visiting faculty of Bayan Islamic Graduate School.

From imams and chaplains to Islamic school leaders, teachers, scholars, and non-profit pioneers, we celebrate those who dedicate themselves to serving others. These inspiring individuals include masjid leaders, community activists, and youth mentors who exemplify the values of faith, compassion, and resilience in their work.

Through insightful conversations and authentic narratives, we explore how these leaders navigate faith, identity, and service, offering a unique perspective on the evolving role of American Muslims in shaping society. Join us to uncover the stories of those who lead with purpose and embody the transformative mission of Bayan.

About your host

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Tariq El-Amin

Imam Tariq I. El-Amin serves as the Resident Imam of Masjid Al-Taqwa in Chicago, IL. He is the founder of the Chicago Black Muslim History Tour and the former host of Sound Vision's Radio Islam, a nightly talk radio program that aired in the Chicago market. Tariq is a recipient of the Muhammad Ali Scholarship and earned a Master of Divinity in Islamic Chaplaincy from Bayan Islamic Graduate School in 2022. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Ministry in Islamic Community Leadership at Bayan, with expected completion in 2026. Tariq is also a producer of the award-winning UIC Black Excellence podcast, hosted by Dr. Aisha El-Amin, and lends his voice to narrating audiobooks.