Straight White American Jesus

Latest Episodes:

Brad Unfiltered: The Gospel of Peter Thiel (Part I) Oct 07, 2025

Show notes

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.
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Weekly Roundup: Hegseth Declares War On the Military + Trump Declares War On You Oct 03, 2025

Show notes

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.

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Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com

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It's in the Code ep 164: “The Model Man” Oct 01, 2025

Show notes

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

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Brad Unfiltered: Troops in Portland: A Symbol of Authoritarianism Sep 30, 2025

Show notes

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.

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White Evangelicalism + American Empire Sep 29, 2025

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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

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Weekly Roundup: Tylenol Trump at the UN + Political Violence Sep 26, 2025

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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

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It's in the Code ep 163: “Social Justice Is Justice, Pt. 3” Sep 24, 2025

Show notes

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

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Inside Charlie Kirk's Memorial: A Deep Dive into Christian Nationalism and Political Polarization Sep 24, 2025

Show notes

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

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Leah Greenberg, Co-Founder of Indivisible, On Mobilizing and Hope Sep 22, 2025

Show notes

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

Weekly Roundup: State Media, Jimmy Kimmel, and How Free Speech Dies Sep 19, 2025

Show notes

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

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