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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