Straight White American Jesus

What can we Americans learn from others around the world about how to protect democracy when the stakes are high? Can we as Americans learn about how to challenge forms of religious nationalism and religious supremacy? What can we learn from Buddhists in Sri Lanka or Muslims in Turkey, or Christians in South Korea who have faced similar kinds of forms of religious nationalism in in their own context and sought to deflate their power? That’s the purpose for this series. Across 10 episodes, we travel around the world to places where there are similar battles afoot, where exclusionary movements of religious nationalism are driving democratic backslid. We’ll be speaking with people of faith from a variety of faiths and traditions. We’ll be speaking with scholars and activists to understand what is happening in these contexts, how it’s similar to or different from what’s happening in the USA, and we’re gonna try to mine some practical lessons from those we speak to about what’s worked and what hasn’t in these efforts to protect democracy. ⁠ Subscribe to American Exceptionalism⁠ Subscribe to Teología Sin Vergüenza Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 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

What happens when political language becomes so distorted that anyone opposing Donald Trump is branded as “lawless,” “Antifa,” or even an “insurrectionist”? In this episode, Brad and Dan unpack how these labels have become empty signifiers... tools for dismissing dissent and consolidating power under what they call the “rule of Trump.” They break down recent Senate hearings, including Pam Bondi’s heated appearance, as a case study in this rhetorical shift. The hosts examine how religious and constitutional language are being weaponized to legitimize political actions and blur the line between patriotism and partisanship. Brad and Dan also reflect on the murder of Charlie Kirk and the troubling way his image is being used for both political and theological capital. The conversation turns to Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s call for state resistance to federal overreach, prompting a deeper look at how “states’ rights” has evolved (and been repurposed) throughout American history. Subscribe to Teología Sin Vergüenza Subscribe to American Exceptionalism 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/ 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

Introducing a new show from Axis Mundi Media. Teología Sin Vergüenza: Navigating Faith, Activism, and Identity. Teología Sin Vergüenza is a digital platform originally in Spanish, created in response to the far-right's dominance over religious media. The platform serves as a space for people at the intersections of queer or trans feminist theology, faith, and activism to engage in conversations about taboo topics like divorce, sex, gender identity, and abortion. It aims to bridge divides between academic, religious, and activist silos, involving diverse voices from various Christian denominations and beyond. The first English season seeks to make these critical conversations accessible to the Latin American diaspora in the U.S., focusing on real-life experiences and decolonizing faith by separating political agendas from genuine religious traditions. Subscribe here: https://redcircle.com/shows/bb8f7ce2-d8f0-4859-bbac-c33c48e3ccb6 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Series: “Manhood” Title: “The Plight of Man” In this episode, Dan continues to examine what, precisely, Josh Hawley, thinks the problems are that confront American men. Hawley consistently ignores history and the actual complexity of American society to make his points. But why does he do this? Why is he so concerned with “manhood” at all? And how does this supposed concern express a deeper Christian nationalist agenda? 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 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

In this recording of a livestream from October 6, 2025, Dr. Brad Onishi delves into the complex religious worldview of Peter Thiel, exploring his beliefs about Christianity, technology, and the future. Thiel's perspective on Armageddon, the Antichrist, and the role of innovation in society is examined, alongside his influences from political theorists like Carl Schmitt and Leo Strauss. The discussion also touches on the concept of mimesis and scapegoating in human behavior, and how these ideas shape Thiel's vision for a future led by tech founders.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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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