Talking With Teachers With Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali
The ‘Talking With Teachers’ Podcast will provide revealing insights into the unique contributions of famous and less-known scholars and teachers. Hosted by Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali, an Associate Professor at Zaytuna College and the Founding Director of the Lamppost Education Initiative (Lamppost). Each episode will discuss key features of the academic journey of our guests as well as explore a particular thinker’s key intellectual/cultural contributions. Guests will primarily be Muslim scholars, Imams, and others of note from the community.
Talking With Teachers: Season 5 Episode 2-Shaykh Amin Kholwadia

📢 Is Riba Ever Permissible in America? | Shaykh Amin Kholwadia on Islamic Education, Darul Qasim, and Controversial Hanafi Opinions
In this powerful episode of Talking With Teachers, host Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali speaks with Shaykh Amin Kholwadia—one of the foremost Islamic scholars in the West and founder of Darul Qasim—about the urgent need for serious Islamic education in America and the controversial Hanafi view on Riba (interest) in the U.S. context.
🔥 Highlights include:
Why Darul Qasim is different from most Islamic institutions
How American Muslims are misunderstanding Islamic scholarshi...
Talking With Teachers- Season 5-Episode-1-Shaykh Hamzah Maqbul

🎙 Talking With Teachers | Season 5, Episode 1
Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali in conversation with Shaykh Hamzah Maqbul
In this inspiring first episode of Season 5, Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali sits down with Shaykh Hamzah Maqbul to explore his unique journey as a scholar and teacher of Islam in America. Shaykh Hamzah reflects on his upbringing, his formative years of study in Mauritania, and his rare position as a Pakistani scholar who follows and teaches the Maliki madhhab.
The conversation offers rich insights into his life’s work, including his role as Director of Religious Affairs at th...
Talking With Teachers-Season 4 Episode 11: Shaykh Ahmed Bangura

Shaykh Ahmed Bangura joins Talking With Teachers to reflect on his educational journey, the founding of the Ihsan Foundation, and his key writings on Islam and West African literature. A deep, thought-provoking episode exploring faith, language, and identity.
#ShaykhAhmedBangura #IslamAndTheWestAfricanNovel #TranslatingIslam #LamppostPodcast #IslamicEducation
Talking With Teachers: Season Four Episode Ten: Shaykh Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari

In this episode of Talking With Teachers, Shaykh Muhammad ibn Adam Al-Kawthari—renowned jurist and founder of Darul Ifta Leicester—shares his path to Islamic learning, reflections on his written works, and the teachers who deeply influenced him. Tune in for an enlightening and inspiring conversation.Please support the Lamppost Education Inititiave. Your donations help Lamppost provide high quality content for English speaking Muslims all over the world. Visit us at: https://lamppostedu.org/donate to contribute and aid Islamic education from qualified Muslim scholars. Please subscribe to the channel and leave a comment below!
Talking With Teachers: Season 4 Episode 9-Dr. Furhan Zubairi

Please join us for a special conversation with Dr. Furhan Zubairi. Dr. Zubairi completed a formal ‘Alamiyyah degree (Masters in Arabic and Islamic Studies) at the famous Jami’ah Dar Al-’Ulum in Karachi. He has obtained numerous ijazat (traditional licenses) in the six canonical books of hadith, as well as the Muwata of Imam Malik and Imam Muhammad, and has also received certification in the field of Islamic Finance.
Talking With Teachers: Season 4-Episode 8 Ustadh Abu Sakina Giovanni

In this episode, we are please to present Ustadh Abu Sakina Giovanni Herran. He has a diverse background in the Humanities and Social Sciences. He received his bachelors from City University of New York (Queens College) with a double major in Political Science and Hispanic Languages and Literatures. He holds a Masters in History from City University of New York (Staten Island College). His research in his Masters dissertation was on the intersection between Scientism, Empire, literary cultural production and Evolutionary theory, in 19th century Western Europe. He is currently a PhD Candidate at Temple University in the Religion Depar...
Talking With Teachers: Season 4 Episode 7-Shaykh Zulfiqar Ali Shah

In this enlightening episode of Talking With Teachers, we sit down with Dr. Zulfiqar Ali Shah, a distinguished scholar, educator, and leader in the Muslim community. Dr. Shah shares his personal journey, including the profound impact of being paralyzed for two years, and offers deep insights into the evolution of Islamic education in the West.
This fascinating interview also explores the historical contributions of Islamic knowledge to Western civilization and the surprising influence of Christian Unitarians—such as Benjamin Franklin —in shaping early American thought, and much more.
Join us for a thought-provoking disc...
Talking With Teachers: Season 4 Episode 6: Shaykh Joe Bradford

What does Islamic law say about life insurance? How can Muslims navigate modern financial systems while staying true to their faith? And what challenges do scholars face in issuing fatwas across different legal systems? In this must-watch episode, we sit down with Shaykh Joe Bradford, a leading expert in Islamic Finance and Law, who holds a graduate degree in Islamic Law & Legal Theory from the Islamic University of Medina. He’s also the author of Simple Zakat Guide and founder of Muslim Money Guide, where he educates Muslims on financial planning within an Islamic framework.🔥 In this episode, we’ll cove...
Talking With Teachers: Season Four-Episode Five: Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi

Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi is a community leader with 20+ years of service in the Bay Area and SoCal. From a life-changing encounter with Shaykh Hamza Yusuf in 1996 to co-launching MH4M (Mental Health for Muslims),she’s dedicated her life to empowering communities through education, spiritual guidance, and mental health advocacy. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation.
Please support the Lamppost Education Initiative in providing relevant Islamic content for the English speaking Muslim community. Go to https://lamppostedu.org/donate
Talking With Teachers-Season 4 Episode 4-Abdur Raheem Green

Join us on this compelling episode ofTalking With Teachers withAbdur Raheem Green! In this session, Abdur Raheem Green—a passionate speaker, educator, and convert to Islam—opens up about his life, his interests, and the transformative journey that led him to embrace Islam. His personal story and insights offer inspiration for anyone interested in faith and transformation.
👉Don’t forget to subscribe, hit the like button, and share this video to help spread the inspiration!
#TalkingWithTeachers #AbdurRaheemGreen #IslamJourney #SpiritualTransformation #Podcast
Talking With Teachers Season 4 Episode 3-Dr. Benjamin Benulis

Are you ready to transform your health and reduce your reliance on expensive, and sometimes dangerous, medications? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Benjamin Benulis—a pioneer in holistic health and natural healing with decades of experience helping individuals unlock their body’s innate ability to heal.Drawing from his extensive background in preventive medicine, Dr. Benulis shares practical, evidence-based strategies for embracing natural alternatives and lifestyle changes that can dramatically improve your well-being. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or simply seeking a healthier way of living, this conversation is packed with insights that could change...
Talking With Teachers: Season 4-Episode 2 Shaykh Hatem Al-Haj

We’re honored to host Shaykh Hatem Al-Haj, a respected Islamic scholar known for applying classical fiqh to today’s pressing questions. He’ll shed light on i’jma (consensus), discuss the importance of fatwa in guiding Muslim communities, and address the sensitive topic of gender reassignment (men or women sex-change) within Islamic law. Join us for an eye-opening discussion—like, share, and invite others to learn with us!
Talking With Teachers: Season 4 Episode 1-Shaykh Umar Vadillo

Get ready for an eye-opening conversation with Shaykh Umar Vadillo in our upcoming podcast! Known for his expertise in Islamic economics and finance, Shaykh Umar Vadillo will share insights on Bitcoin and explore its place in the modern financial landscape. Don’t miss his unique perspective on ethical transactions, the role of precious metals in commerce, and the broader implications for Muslim communities worldwide.
Subscribe now and set your reminders—you won’t want to miss this valuable discussion!
Talking With Teachers: Season 3 Episode 12-Dr. Zara Khan

Join us for the grand finale of Talking With Teachers Season 3, hosted by Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali! In this episode, we are honored to feature Dr. Zara Khan, a distinguished scholar specializing in Western episteme, political philosophy, human rights, and the intersections of religion and public life. Dr. Zara Khan was born in Frankfurt, Germany, and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She holds a Ph.D. with Distinction in Political Theory and Comparative Politics from the City University of New York Graduate Center. Her groundbreaking doctoral dissertation, Refractions Through the Secular: Islam, Human Rights, Universality, reflects her profound engagement...
Talking With Teachers: Season 3 Episode 11-Imam Dawood Yasin

A Conversation with Imam Dawood Yasin
Welcome to another enriching episode of the Talking With Teachers podcast! 🎙️
This week, host Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali is joined by Imam Dawood Yasin, a seasoned educator and leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to ethical living and service.
📌 Highlights of Imam Dawood’s career:
Director of Student Life and Center for Ethical Living and Learning at Zaytuna College Muslim Life and Service-Learning Coordinator at Dartmouth College Director of Outreach Affairs at Zayed Center for Islamic Culture in the UAE Arabic Language Teaching Assistant...Talking With Teachers Season 3 Episode 10: Dr. Youssef Ismail

Welcome to the 10th episode of Season 3 of the Talking With Teachers podcast! 🌙
In this special episode, host Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali is joined by Dr. Youssef Ismail, a scholar of mechanical engineering and expert in Astronomy, Mathematics, Physics, the History of Science, and Maliki Fiqh. Dr. Ismail, a contributor to Crescentwatch.org, offers valuable insights into fascinating topics that connect science, spirituality, and Islamic tradition.
📌 Topics discussed:
🔹 How to determine Fajr in relation to eating suhoor during Ramadan
🔹 The debate on the Northeast vs. Southeast Qibla direction
🔹 The traditions and...
Talking With Teachers Season 3 Episode 9: Brett Pike

Welcome to another episode of Talking With Teachers! In this insightful conversation, we’re joined by Brett Pike, founder of the Classical Learner Homeschooling Program. Brett shares his journey in developing a unique, classical approach to homeschooling, rooted in values-driven education and designed to inspire children’s natural curiosity and love of learning.
Throughout the episode, Brett discusses the transformative potential of homeschooling, the challenges parents and educators face today, and actionable strategies for fostering independent thinkers. Whether you're considering homeschooling, already on the journey, or simply interested in alternative education methods, this episode offers valu...
Talking With Teachers Season 3 Episode 8: Imam Faheem Shuaibe

We are excited to share the latest episode of Talking With Teachers, where Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali hosts a thought-provoking conversation with Imam Faheem Shuaibe. In each episode, we explore the journeys, influences, and insights of notable Muslim scholars, teachers, and leaders.
This episode features Imam Faheem Shuaibe, Resident Imam at Waritheen Mosque (Masjidul Waritheen) in Oakland, California. From his roots as a minister in the Nation of Islam to his transformation as a lifelong student of Imam W. D. Mohammed (ra), Imam Faheem shares his unique journey and perspectives on American Muslim identity...
Talking With Teachers: Season 3 Episode 7-Shaykh Abdul Nasir Jangda

Join us for this fascinating discussion with Shaykh AbdulNasir Jangda is the Founder and President of Qalam. He is a faculty member at the Qalam Seminary where he teaches Sahih Bukhari, advanced Tafsir, Usul, Fiqh, Aqidah, and Balaghah. He has completed an extensive study of the life of the Prophet ﷺ in the Seerah Podcast. He annually teaches the Qur’an Intensive and Seerah Intensive, and leads groups on the Seerah Umrah tour. Born and raised in Dallas, he currently resides there with his wife and three children. He memorized the Qur’an in Karachi at an early age. After high s...
Talking With Teachers: Season 3 Episode 6-Dr. Nazeer Ahmed

This week we are honored to feature Dr. Nazeer Ahmed on our podcast. Dr. Ahmed is an Indian-American scholar, inventor, historian, and legislator. He is the director of the American Institute of Islamic History and Culture in California. Also, he serves on the board of the World Organization for Resource Development and Education in Washington, DC. He is a Member of the State Knowledge Commission in India. Dr. Ahmed holds a Ph.D. from Cornell University, AeE and MS degrees from the California Institute of Technology, an MBA from Rider University, and BE from the University of Mysore. A...
Talking With Teachers Season 3 Episode 5-Dr Mazen Atassi

Dr. Mazen Atassi brings a unique perspective, blending the science of conventional medicine with the time-honored wisdom of naturopathic and homeopathic practices. We'll explore his journey and discuss natural healing methods, including insights aligning with the tradition of Prophetic Medicine (Tibb al-Nabawi).
Talking With Teachers-Season 3 Episode 4-Imam Rashad Abdul-Rahmaan

We are thrilled to invite you to an enlightening conversation with Imam Rashad Abdul-Rahmaan, Founder and Director of The Institute of Qur'an Study and Leadership. Imam Rashad has studied under esteemed figures like Imam Warith Deen Mohammed (ra) and Shaykh Muhammad al-Ninowy at the Madina Institute. With a rich history as Assistant Imam at the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam, he is a well-respected lecturer and author, and hosts the popular podcast, "The Qur'an in Society."
Talking With Teachers Season 3 Episode 3-Ismail Royer

Discover the remarkable journey of Ismail Royer, from his early years and conversion to Islam, to his involvement as an American Muslim in the Bosnia War, and his time of incarceration. Learn how these experiences shaped his intellectual and spiritual growth, driving his passion for interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding. Today, through his work with nonprofits, Ismail Royer is dedicated to fostering unity and understanding between faith communities. Join us for an inspiring story of resilience, faith, and activism.
Talking With Teachers-Season 3-Episode 2-Fatima Barkatullah

In this episode of the Talking With Teachers Podcast, we have a fascinating interview with Shaykha Fatima Barkatulla. This wide range of conversations on Islamic education, the Khilafat, Aisha (ra), and more.
Please be sure to visit our website, https://lamppostedu.org/talking-with-teachers to access previous seasons and episodes of this special podcast.
Talking With Teachers-Season 3-Episode 1-Rhamis Kent

Welcome to our first episode of Season 3-Talking With Teachers. We are pleased to present this inspiring conversation on agriculture, climate change, and more with Mr. Rhamis Kent. Mr. Kent is a consultant with a strong background in mechanical engineering (University of Delaware, B.S.M.E. ’95) and a specialization in permaculture-based regenerative whole systems design. He is a registered Permaculture Design instructor with PRI Australia, a former co-director of the Permaculture Research Institute (PRI), and a United Designers International (UDI) member. He serves on the Supervisory Board of the Netherlands-registered non-profit Ecosystem Restoration Camps Foundation. Please support the La...
Talking With Teachers: Season 2-Episode 12-Hamza Andreas Tzortzis

Final Episode of 'Talking With Teachers' Season 2 Featuring Hamza Andreas Tzortzis! We are thrilled to present the final episode of 'Talking With Teachers' Season 2, featuring renowned writer, speaker, and philosopher Hamza Andreas Tzortzis, author of the best-selling book, "The Divine Reality: God, Islam, and The Mirage of Atheism." Join us for an enlightening conversation as we delve into Hamza Tzortzis' inspiring journey, his dedicated dawah efforts, and his impactful work. 🔥 Don't miss out! Tune in for this engaging and thought-provoking episode! Special Note: Season 3 will begin on Monday, August 26th at 7:30am EST
Please forgive the technical dif...
Talking With Teachers-Season Two-Episode 11-Mufti Abdur-Rahman ibn Yusuf Mangera

Join us as Mufti Abdur-Rahman as he shares his journey of pursuing sacred knowledge in England and his efforts in establishing the Whitethread Institute, a beacon of traditional Islamic learning. Discover the profound influence of esteemed scholars like Ibn Jawzi and Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali on the Islamic intellectual tradition. Don't miss this inspiring conversation—hit like and subscribe for more enlightening content! Please support the Lamppost Education Initiative. Your donations help Lamppost provide high-quality content for English-speaking Muslims worldwide. Visit us at: https://lamppostedu.org/donate to contribute and aid Islamic education from qualified Muslim scholars.
Talking With Teachers-Season 2-Episode 10-Ustadh Feraidoon Mojadedi

Join us in this captivating episode of the Talking With Teachers Podcast as we delve into the fascinating journey of Ustadh Feraidoon Mojadedi. 🌍✨ 📚 Highlights: Growing up in Afghanistan 🇦🇫 Immigrating to the United States 🇺🇸 His education and profound expertise in poetry In-depth discussions on the famed poet Rumi 🕊️ Insights on other legendary poets like Muhammad Iqbal and more 📜 🔔 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring conversations with educators and thought leaders from around the world! #TalkingWithTeachers #FeraidoonMojadedi #Rumi #MuhammadIqbal #Poetry #Education #Afghanistan #Immigration #Inspiration #Podcast Please support the Lamppost Education Initiative. Your donations help Lamppost provide high-quality content for English-speaking Mu...
Talking With Teachers-Season 2-Episode 8-Dr. Khalid Blankinship

🎙️ Talking With Teachers Podcast: Featuring Dr. Khalid Blankinship - Renowned Islamic Historian In this enlightening episode of the 'Talking With Teachers' Podcast, we are honored to welcome Dr. Khalid Blankinship, one of the world's leading Islamic historians. Join us as Dr. Blankinship shares his journey to embracing Islam and delves into captivating aspects of Islamic history and thought, including: 🔹 Reflections on diverse accounts of Islamic history 🔹 Controversial figures like Abdullah ibn Saba 🔹 Was Imam Hasan (ra) really poisoned by Mu'awiyah (ra)? 🔹 Historical accuracy of the Seerah of the Prophet Muhammad (saws) 🔹 Orientalist critiques on the authenticity of Islamic history 🔹 The significance of Abb...
Talking With Teachers-Season 2 Episode 7-Shaykh Anwar Muhaimin

In this episode of 'Talking With Teachers,' we are honored to feature Shaykh Anwar Muhaimin of the Quba Institute. As the director of the Quba Institute, Shaykh Anwar Muhaimin has an inspiring journey, becoming the first American-born Haafiz of Qur’an at just 15 years old in Saudi Arabia. He later graduated from the University of Medina’s Faculty of Language. Join us as Shaykh Anwar Muhaimin shares his profound insights, discussing the significant influence of his father, Shaykh Nafea Muhaimin. He also reflects on his early experiences at the University of Medina, the challenges he faced opposing the 'sal...
'Talking With Teachers-Season 2-Episode 5-Dr. Aminah McCloud

In the episode of Talking With Teachers, Dr. Aminah McCloud shares her unique experiences, travels, and insights on her journey to Islam. Please support this podcast and the Lamppost Education Initiative. Visit our website at https://lamppostedu.org/
Talking With Teachers: Season 2-Episode 6 Imam Zaid Shakir

From Struggles to Triumph: Imam Zaid Shakir's Inspiring Journey to Islam | Talking With Teachers" Join us in this captivating episode of Talking With Teachers as we delve into the profound narrative of Imam Zaid Shakir's transformational journey to Islam. Witness Imam Zaid's poignant reflections on his formative years, his remarkable evolution even before embracing Islam, and the pivotal influence of Shaykh Badruddin al-Hasani on his spiritual path. Don't miss this intimate account of resilience, growth, and faith. Subscribe now for more enlightening conversations with influential educators and leaders. Join us in supporting the Lamppost Education Initiative during these sacred...
Talking With Teachers-Season 2-Episode 4-Shaykh Yasir Qadhi

In this must-watch episode of the "Talking With Teachers" podcast, join us for an in-depth conversation with Shaykh Yasir Qadhi, one of the most renowned Muslim scholars in the West. Shaykh Yasir delves into controversial issues and shares his perspectives on various topics, including:
His early connection with the Salafi movement and reasons for distancing from it His evolving views on the Asharis and other Islamic schools of thought The significance of Muhammad Rashid Rida in Islamic intellectual developmentThis revealing interview offers a unique glimpse into the mind of a leading Islamic scholar. Don't...
Talking With Teachers-Season 2-Episode 3-Shaykh Abdassamad Clarke

In this episode of the 'Talking with Teachers' Podcast, we dive deep with Shaykh Abdassamad Clarke as he shares his inspiring journey into Islam. Shaykh Abdassamad discusses his early intellectual endeavors as a translator of Islamic texts and the significant impact Shaykh Abdul-Qadir as-Sufi had on his spiritual development. Gain profound insights on the importance of ethical business transactions and the danger of riba (interest) in the lives of Muslims. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation filled with wisdom and practical guidance for everyday Islamic living.
#TalkingWithTeachers #ShaykhAbdassamadClarke #JourneyToIslam #IslamicTranslation #ShaykhAbdulQadirAsSufi #RibaInIslam #BusinessInIslam #IslamicFinance #MuslimPodcast
...Talking With Teachers-Episode 2-Shaykh Hasan Spiker

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Talking With Teachers Podcast as we delve into the fascinating realm of metaphysics with esteemed guest Shaykh Hasan Spiker. Gain profound insights into Shaykh Hasan's background and his exploration of the Western philosophical tradition's interpretation of metaphysics, featuring prominent thinkers such as Aristotle and Kant. Discover the rich legacy of Islamic intellectual tradition through the lens of the great Ottoman scholar and teacher, Mulla Funari, as Shaykh Hasan sheds light on his invaluable contributions. Dive deep into the essence of metaphysics and expand your intellectual horizons with this captivating discussion. Please...
Talking With Teachers-Episode One-Dr. Sherman Jackson

In the inaugural episode of our Second Season of "Talking With Teachers," we're delighted to engage in a conversation with Dr. Sherman Jackson. As a Distinguished Professor and holder of the King Faisal Chair in Islamic Thought and Culture at the University of Southern California, Dr. Jackson offers unique personal insights into his journey as a Muslim scholar and educator. Additionally, he provides intriguing perspectives on his latest publication, "The Islamic Secular," offering valuable insights into this groundbreaking work. Please support the Lamppost Education Initiative. Your donations help Lamppost provide high-quality content for English-speaking Muslims worldwide. Visit us at...
Talking With Teachers-Episode 12-Shaykh Yasir Fahmy

In our final episode of Season 1, Shaykh Yasir Fahmy provides a fascinating look at his journey in Islamic studies. Stay tuned for more details on Season 2. Your support for the Lamppost Education Initiative is instrumental in our mission to provide enriching content for English-speaking Muslims worldwide. Your donations at https://lamppostedu.org/donate directly contribute to the advancement of Islamic education by qualified Muslim scholars.
Talking With Teachers-Episode 11-Shaykh Muhammad al-Ninowy

In this episode of Talking With Teachers, Shaykh Muhammad Al-Ninowy looks at his background and the insights that inform his understanding of fiqh, hadith, and other Islamic sciences. He also emphasizes the importance of love and mercy in our Islamic tradition. Please support the Lamppost Education Initiative. Your donations help Lamppost provide high-quality content for English-speaking Muslims worldwide. Visit us at: https://lamppostedu.org/donate to contribute and aid Islamic education from qualified Muslim scholars.
Talking With Teachers-Episode Ten-Shaykh Yahya Rhodus

In this episode of 'Talking With Teachers', Shaykh Yayha Rhodus tells us of his fascinating, personal journey to Islam and gives insights about some of the influences of his spiritual development. Please support the Lamppost Education Initiative 2024 Ramadan Fundraising Drive. Your donations help Lamppost provide high-quality content for English-speaking Muslims worldwide. Visit us at: https://lamppostedu.org/donate to contribute and aid Islamic education from qualified Muslim scholars.
Please be sure to like, share, and subscribe
Talking With Teachers-Ustadh Hassan Shibly-Episode Nine

In this episode of the 'Talking With Teachers' Podcast, we are delighted to hear insights from Ustadh Hassan Shibly, an attorney who fights Islamaphobia and defends Muslims' civil rights through his law firm, Muslim Legal.
Please support the Lamppost Education Initiative, visit our website at https://lamppostedu.org