A Way Beyond the Rainbow

Waheed Jensen

A podcast series discussing the everyday struggles of Muslims with same-sex attractions (SSA) who want to live a life true to Allah and Islam. I am Waheed Jensen, and I have SSA. In today’s world, it seems the overwhelming narrative out there is “love is love” and “embrace your sexual identity”. There are many of us who find that to be incompatible with the life we want to live, which is a God-conscious life in line with the teachings of Islam. This podcast series is a safe space for Muslims who struggle with SSA, as well as parents, family members, friends, imams, chaplains, community leaders, and the community at large.

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97 episodes
Updated Aug 3, 2025

Episodes97

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Jan 28, 2022 · 1 hr
#72 - On Contemporary Issues and Shar'i Perspectives (Part II)
This is part II of a 2-episode series with Sh. Mustafa Umar addressing contemporary issues and Shar'i perspectives related to same-sex attractions and gender identity issues. Is Islam a "homophobic" or "transphobic" religion? Where do we, as Muslim communities, stand on "LGBT rights" and same-sex marriage? Is it permissible for me to attend a same-sex marriage? How do we deal with "progressive" or "reformist" Muslims pushing pro-LGBT agendas on our communities? How do we deal with Muslim reverts who identify as part of the LGBT community? How do we deal with particular workplace rules and regulations that are pro-LGBT and may be in direct contradiction with our Islamic values? These and other relevant questions are explored in this episode. Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Jan 24, 2022 · 1 hr 19 min
#71 - On Contemporary Issues and Shar'i Perspectives (Part I)
This is part I of a 2-episode series with Sh. Mustafa Umar addressing contemporary issues and Shar'i perspectives related to same-sex attractions and gender identity issues. How can parents, family members and friends support and embrace individuals with same-sex attractions and/or gender dysphoria without compromising their values and Deen? How do we deal with men or women in our families/circle of friends who have "come out" as part of the LGBT community and are living the lifestyle? From an Islamic legal perspective, what are the punishments of same-sex sexual behaviors and some of the common misconceptions surrounding that? Do same-sex sexual acts, the declaration of such acts as halal, or being in a same-sex marriage put one out of the fold of Islam? These and other relevant questions are explored in this episode. Talks given by Sh. Mustafa Umar: - Islam and Homosexuality: Drawing the Lines - What Does Islam Really Say About Homosexuality? - Teaching Transgender Ideology In California Schools: What Muslims Need to Know Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Jan 21, 2022 · 1 hr 23 min
#70 - On Revisionist Arguments (Part II)
This is part II of a 2-episode series with Br. Mobeen Vaid addressing revisionist arguments pertaining to homosexuality within Islam. In this episode, Mobeen and I discuss the punishments of sodomy according to Islamic Shari'a, to what extent Islam can be considered a "sex positive" religion, as well as the notions of marriage and celibacy for men and women who experience same-sex attractions. Under what conditions is sodomy punished by Islamic law, and why is there no consensus on this matter? Since a lot of homoerotic prose and poetry were written during the Islamic Golden Age, and we also know of famous Islamic scholars from the past, like Ibn Dāwūd al-Ẓāhirī, Ibn ʿArabī, and Ibn Ḥazm who had homoerotic feelings, wouldn't all of this constitute an acknowledgment and acceptance of homosexuality? Is it fair or just that Islam denies men and women who experience same-sex attractions their rights to sexual fulfillment? These and other questions are explored in this episode. Resources used and references mentioned in the episode: - "Can Islam Accommodate Homosexual Acts? Quranic Revisionism and the Case of Scott Kugle" by Mobeen Vaid Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Jan 17, 2022 · 1 hr 9 min
#69 - On Revisionist Arguments (Part I)
This is part I of a 2-episode series with Br. Mobeen Vaid addressing revisionist arguments pertaining to homosexuality within Islam. In this episode, Mobeen and I discuss the sociocultural backdrop of this kind of revisionism, particularly within Islam, and we address relevant arguments related to terminology as well as the story of the people of Prophet Lut (PBUH). What are the broader assumptions taken for granted by revisionist narratives? Does the Qur'an explicitly and unequivocally prohibit same-sex sexual acts? What were the people of Lut (PBUH) condemned and punished for according to textual proof? Do the themes of "rape" and "consent" have any room in the interpretation of the relevant verses? These and other questions are explored in this episode. Resources used and references mentioned in the episode: - "Can Islam Accommodate Homosexual Acts? Quranic Revisionism and the Case of Scott Kugle" by Mobeen Vaid Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Jan 14, 2022 · 1 hr 23 min
#68 - Between Toxic Masculinity and Radical Feminism
In this episode, we tackle the notions of toxic masculinity and discuss the waves of opposing feminist movements with their ripple effects on the global community. We also highlight the importance of the Prophetic example in paving the way for God-conscious, healthy masculinity. What are the "Man Rules" and "Woman Rules" that we take for granted, and how do they contribute to toxic masculinity in our cultures? Are gender differences socially constructed? What does Islam say about the similarities and differences between the male and the female? How can we reclaim our masculinity in light of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)'s Sunnah and Divine Revelation? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in the episode: - A Man's Way through Relationships: Learning to Love and Be Loved by Dan Griffin - A Man's Way through the Twelve Steps by Dan Griffin - Dan Griffin's podcast, "The Man Rules Podcast" - Helping Men Recover: A Man's Workbook, Special Edition for the Criminal Justice System by Stephanie S. Covington, Dan Griffin and Rick Dauer - Boys will be Boys - Gender identity issues by Sh. Abdal-Hakim Murad - Fall of the Family by Sh. Abdal-Hakim Murad - Islam, Irigaray, and the Retrieval of Gender by Sh. Abdal-Hakim Murad - "Gender, Sexuality, Morality and Identity" webinar by Dr. Sharif El-Tobgui - Addressing the Specific Behavioral Health Needs of Men by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - Feminist movements and waves of feminism explained here and here - “Be a Man!” Constructing Prophetic Masculinity by Yaqeen Institute - Talks with Gabriel Al-Romaani: The Prophet of Masculinity and How to be a Real Man Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Jan 10, 2022 · 1 hr 37 min
#67 - On Politics, Genderspeak and a Queer New World (Part II)
This is part II of a 2-episode series that addresses the history and politics of the gay liberation movement, the influence of the LGBT movement on countless aspects of everyday life and how far things have progressed in a few decades. How has the LGBT movement influenced media outlets, religious discourse, school curricula and global corporations over the past few decades? Why and how did the American Psychological Association (APA) remove homosexuality from its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)? How did we get to a point where any therapy other than gay- or trans-affirmative therapy is outlawed? How does the trajectory look like moving forward, and what can we do as Muslims and members of faith communities around the world to stay true to our faiths and value systems? These and other questions are explored in this episode. Resources used and references mentioned in the episode: - A Queer Thing Happened to America: And What a Long, Strange Trip It's Been by Michael Brown - "Can Islam Accommodate Homosexual Acts? Quranic Revisionism and the Case of Scott Kugle" by Mobeen Vaid - Strong Support webinars: Therapeutic Choice with Mike Davidson; Trends in Therapy for Unwanted Same Sex Lust and Q&A with Andrew Rodriguez; Them Before Us with Katy Faust - Them Before Us: Why We Need a Global Children's Rights Movement by Katy Faust Additional relevant resources: - "Where The Rainbow Ends: American Muslims And LGBT Activism" by Mobeen Vaid - Same-Sex Marriage: Not Best for Children - statements, Amicus briefs, research, press releases and commentaries - Homosexual Parenting: A Scientific Analysis by the American College of Pediatricians - No Basis: What the Studies Don’t Tell Us About Same-Sex Parenting by Robert Lerner and Althea K. Nagai Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Jan 7, 2022 · 1 hr 38 min
#66 - On Politics, Genderspeak and a Queer New World (Part I)
With this episode, we commence the fifth and final season of the podcast which focuses on sociopolitical and religious topics, themes related to gender and transgenderism, as well as broader topics of relevance to the larger community. The season premieres with a 2-episode series that addresses the history and politics of the gay liberation movement, the influence of the LGBT movement on countless aspects of everyday life and how far things have progressed in a few decades. How did the gay liberation movement start and progress over the past few decades? In what ways was the book After the Ball foundational in laying out the vision and plans for society's desensitization towards the LGBT community, as well as the acceptance and even celebration of queerness and homosexuality, as part of a fight towards civil rights and integration into mainstream politics? In what ways have the Orwellian themes of Newspeak, thought crimes and thought police become a tangible reality in today's world? These and other questions are explored in this episode. Resources used in the episode: - After the Ball: How America Will Conquer Its Fear and Hatred of Gays in the '90s by Marshall Kirk and Hunter Madsen - A Queer Thing Happened to America: And What a Long, Strange Trip It's Been by Michael Brown Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Oct 22, 2021 · 1 hr 10 min
#65 - On Self-Esteem (Part II)
This is part II of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-esteem and becoming more confident in our lives. In this season finale, Aadam and I discuss imposter syndrome, how to deal with fear of rejection and criticism, as well as practical tips to boosting one's confidence. What are the different kinds of imposter syndrome and how can we overcome them? What's the difference between feedback and criticism, and how can I deal with the latter? How can I stop taking things personally in my life? How can I build my sense of self-confidence on a daily basis? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in this episode: - Imposter Syndrome Test (Clance IP Scale) - "The Surprising Solution to the Imposter Syndrome " TED talk by Lou Solomon - "7 Psychology Tricks to Build Unstoppable Confidence" video by TopThink - "How To Improve Self Esteem" video by Marisa Peer - "How not to take things personally?" TED talk by Frederik Imbo - "How to Deal with Criticism" - A Monk's Perspective - "How to Build Self Confidence" TED talk by CeCe Olisa Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Oct 18, 2021 · 1 hr 15 min
#64 - On Self-Esteem (Part I)
This is part I of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-esteem and becoming more confident in our lives. In this episode, Aadam and I introduce self-esteem and self-confidence, touch upon some relevant spiritual themes and dive into the six pillars of self-esteem. How does living consciously contribute to my self-esteem? How can I practice more self-acceptance on a daily basis and take responsibility for my life? How can I become more assertive and stand up for my rights and ideas? How does maintaining integrity in my life contribute to my self-confidence? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in this episode: - The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden - "What Is Spiritually Centered Confidence?" article on ProductiveMuslim - "The Prophetic Model of Confidence Webinar" by The Productive Muslim Company - "The Prophetic Model of Courage & Its Practical Application Today" article on ProductiveMuslim Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Oct 15, 2021 · 1 hr 34 min
#63 - On Self-Discipline (Part II)
This is part II of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-discipline and building healthy habits. In this episode, Aadam and I discuss building atomic habits, overcoming procrastination and failure, and developing morning routines. How can I build healthy habits consistently and overcome some of my bad habits? How can I deal with distractions in my life and overcome procrastination? Why is a morning routine important and what does it constitute? How can I develop a contingency plan in case I fail? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in the episode: - Atomic Habits by James Clear - The School of Greatness: A Real-World Guide to Living Bigger, Loving Deeper, and Leaving a Legacy by Lewis Howes - Mindful Self-Discipline by Giovanni Dienstmann - "A Better Way to Track Your Habits" video by Thomas Frank (including the Journal Method) - Habit-tracking apps: Habitica, Habit Bull and Strides - Fabulous app - build better habits and achieve your goals - The concept of dopamine detox: example videos here, here and here. - Lewis Howes' "School of Greatness" podcast episodes: on overcoming procrastination + on creating the perfect morning routine - Explanation of the Pomodoro technique - Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...and Maybe the World by Admiral William H. McRaven (also see his viral talk here) - "The Two-Day Rule" by Matt D'Avella Extra books on time management and overcoming procrastination: - The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey - Eat That Frog! 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy - The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Tim Ferriss - Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen Mindful time management resources (Giovanni Dienstmann): time planning, boundaries, Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Oct 11, 2021 · 1 hr 42 min
#62 - On Self-Discipline (Part I)
This is part I of a 2-episode series on the topic of self-discipline and building healthy habits. In this episode, Aadam and I outline the differences between self-discipline, motivation, willpower and self-control, highlight the benefits of self-discipline, and discuss practical methods to cultivating that in our daily lives. How can I prevent my "monkey mind" from taking over when I try to work or study? How can I develop practical goals, aspirations and strategies in my life? How can I start building more structure, focus and discipline in my life, and how can I develop more willpower to do the things I have to do even when I don't feel like doing them? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in the episode: - "5 Timeless Strategies for Building Self-Discipline" by Sam Thomas Davies - Dandapani's tips to developing willpower, video on Youtube - "Jordan Peterson’s Method for Self Discipline" video by TopThink - Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day by Jay Shetty - "Master Self-Discipline" video by Jay Shetty - The School of Greatness: A Real-World Guide to Living Bigger, Loving Deeper, and Leaving a Legacy by Lewis Howes - Mindful Self-Discipline by Giovanni Dienstmann - "Marcus Aurelius – How To Build Self Discipline (Stoicism)" video by Philosophies for Life - Meditations by Marcus Aurelius - Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success by Rory Vaden - Don't Sweat the Small Stuff . . . and It's All Small Stuff: Simple Ways to Keep the Little Things from Taking Over Your Life by Richard Carlson Developing practical plans of action (resources from Giovanni Dienstmann, in order): - Start with Purpose, Difference between Goals and Aspirations, and Specify Your Aspiration with SMART Goals (also: Want-to Goals vs. Have-to Goals) - Find your: Core Values, Deeper Why and Role Models - Design Your Aspirational Identity, Magnify Your Aspiration and cultivate The Triple Commitment Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Oct 1, 2021 · 1 hr 16 min
#61 - On Sexual Abuse (Part II)
*TRIGGER WARNING: Episode discusses themes of sexual abuse, assault and rape* This is part II of a 2-episode series on the topic of sexual abuse, assault and rape. In this episode, we discuss the process of defining and processing sexual abuse experiences and outline stages of healing, practical work and different coping strategies. We also cover the topic of rape, as well as the intricacies involved with disclosing sexual abuse experiences to loved ones. We also offer tips to parents, spouses, family members and friends of individuals who experienced sexual abuse or rape. What are some barriers that prevent sexual abuse survivors from healing and recovering? What are the different stages of recovery, and what are practical recommendations to help me heal? Should I disclose my sexual abuse trauma to my spouse, family or friends, and how can I do that? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in the episode: - Dr. Jim Hopper’s website - Abused Boys: The Neglected Victims of Sexual Abuse, by Mic Hunter - Trauma and Recovery, by Judith Herman - The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse, by Laura Davis (book and workbook) - Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing, by Jay Stringer - Sexual Assault Resource Guide from HealthLine - Recommended books and films from the "1in6" website Male-oriented websites, support groups and resources: "1in6" website, Male Survivor website, Mankind Initiative (UK), Dr. Richard Gartner’s website, Living Well website, British Columbia Society for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse For males and females: - Sexual Assault Demonstration Initiative: Online support groups and general resources for survivors of sexual violence - S.H.E UK - Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) - The Survivors Trust (UK) - International support: Handbook of International Centers for Survivors of Sexual Assault and Harassment - National Domestic Violence Hotline (USA) For parents and families: Stop It Now organization, books and films for parents Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 27, 2021 · 1 hr 28 min
#60 - On Sexual Abuse (Part I)
*TRIGGER WARNING: Episode discusses themes of sexual abuse, assault and rape* This is part I of a 2-episode series on the topic of sexual abuse, assault and rape. In this episode, we tackle some relevant definitions and statistics, discuss some reasons why survivors do not disclose their sexual abuse experiences, and highlight some of the psychological and emotional repercussions of sexual abuse. We also cover some facts and myths with regards to unwanted sexual experiences, particularly those relating to male sexual abuse. Why do many survivors of sexual abuse experiences keep such incidents to themselves and prefer secrecy? Why is there more shame surrounding male sexual abuse than female sexual abuse? Do childhood sexual abuse experiences contribute to the development of same-sex attractions? Is there a chance for survivors of sexual abuse to become perpetrators themselves? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in this episode: - Guidelines from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry on communicating with survivors of childhood sexual abuse - Jim Hopper: Sexual Assault and the Brain - Booklet “Understanding Children’s Sexual Behaviors: What’s Natural and Healthy” by Dr. Toni Cavanagh Johnson - "Do Children Sexually Abuse Other Children?” online guidebook by "Stop It Now" - "Why Do People Sexually Use or Abuse Children?" article from 1in6 website - "Am I Going to Become Abusive?" article from 1in6 website Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 24, 2021 · 45 min
#59 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part IV)
This is the fourth and last part of our 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we examine together relevant spiritual themes on the journey of sexual recovery, including patience, perseverance, surrender, repentance and going back to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala. We also discuss many lessons from the story of Prophet Yunus (PBUH) in relation to sexual recovery. What are some gems that we can learn from Prophet Yunus (PBUH)'s story that are relevant to our journey of recovery from addictions and unwanted behaviors? How can my temptations, habits and sins turn into prayers and a path to the Divine? How can the themes of patience, surrender, admitting one's powerlessness and tawbah form the foundation of my recovery and healing journey? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in this episode: - Coffee With Karim podcast episode 9: "Sex, Porn & Paradise" with guest speaker Zeyad Ramadan - Secrets of Divine Love: A Spiritual Journey into the Heart of Islam by A. Helwa Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 20, 2021 · 1 hr 17 min
#58 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part III)
This is part III of a 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we examine together the withdrawal period, potential pitfalls and mind games on the journey of healing and recovery, as well as practical tips and tools that we can use on our journey. We also talk about helpful apps, websites and support systems, how to deal with periods of difficulty, and how to disclose to people close to you, should you choose to do so. What would I expect to happen when I choose to quit my compulsive sexual behaviors? How do I handle the withdrawal period? What are some games that my mind can play on me during this period? What are some screen control apps, website blockers, online counseling venues and other helpful resources and support groups that can help me maintain my recovery and offer me support on my journey? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in this episode: - Breaking the Cycle: Free Yourself from Sex Addiction, Porn Obsession, and Shame by George Collins - The Porn Pandemic: A Simple Guide To Understanding And Ending Pornography Addiction For Men by Andrew Ferebee - The Easy Peasy Way to Quit Porn - TED talk “How to Make Stress Your Friend” by Kelly McGonigal Parental (and personal) screen control/monitoring apps: Bark, Boomerang, Clean Browsing, Net Nanny, Qustodio Parental Control, OurPact Website blockers: Cold Turkey, Covenant Eyes, Stay Focused (Google Chrome extension, app on Google Store) Helpful apps on the journey of sexual recovery: Fortify, Brain Buddy, Quit Masturbation Calendar, rTribe, 12-step apps Online counseling for overcoming porn and sexual compulsive behaviors: Sexual Recovery Institute, Purify Your Gaze (Muslim organization) Other helpful resources: Sexaholics Anonymous (SA), NoFap (main website, Reddit “NoFap” forum, Reddit "Muslim NoFap" forum), Reddit “Porn Free” forum, Reboot Nation, Muslim PMO Central Discord server Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 17, 2021 · 17 min
SOS Meditation (3): Turning Temptations into Divine Connection
A 17-minute meditation that involves mindfulness, breathing and connecting with Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala using some of His Divine Names, reorienting our being as we call unto Him and ask for His help. Background music from Benjamin Tissot (Bensound). Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 17, 2021 · 9 min
SOS Meditation (1): Grounding and Breathing
A 10-minute meditation focused on grounding and breathing to practice mindfulness and demystify triggers. Background music from Benjamin Tissot (Bensound). Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 17, 2021 · 13 min
SOS Meditation (2): Breathing and Body Scan
A 13-minute meditation focused on breathing and a full body scan to practice mindfulness and demystify triggers. Background music from Benjamin Tissot (Bensound). Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 17, 2021 · 1 hr 10 min
#57 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part II)
This is part II of a 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we discuss many practical techniques to help us demystify sexual triggers and overcome the urges of sexual "acting out". How can I communicate with my "inner addict" and deconstruct my urges? How do mindfulness and conscious awareness exercises help me overcome my sexual triggers? What are some practical tools that can be used when I experience intense urges to watch porn or act out sexually? How can all of this be transformed into acts of worship? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in this episode: - Breaking the Cycle: Free Yourself from Sex Addiction, Porn Obsession, and Shame by George Collins - The Porn Pandemic: A Simple Guide To Understanding And Ending Pornography Addiction For Men by Andrew Ferebee - The Easy Peasy Way to Quit Porn - "Taking Your History" Questionnaire - TED talk “A Simple Way to Break a Bad Habit” by Judson Brewer - Secrets of Divine Love: A Spiritual Journey into the Heart of Islam by A. Helwa Send as an anonymous one-way text message
Sep 13, 2021 · 1 hr 4 min
#56 - On Porn and Sex Addictions (Part I)
This is part I of a 4-episode comprehensive series on understanding and overcoming porn and sex addictions. In this episode, we discuss what addiction is, from physiological, emotional and personal perspectives. We also look at the damaging effects of porn and the horrifying realities associated with the porn industry. Do I have a compulsive sexual behavior disorder? How does compulsive porn use, masturbation or sexually acting out affect the physiology of my brain and nervous system and lead to addiction? Other than physiology, what are other important aspects of addiction to take into account so we can understand our behaviors and habits? These and other questions are explored in this episode. References used and resources mentioned in this episode: - Breaking the Cycle: Free Yourself from Sex Addiction, Porn Obsession, and Shame by George Collins - The Porn Pandemic: A Simple Guide To Understanding And Ending Pornography Addiction For Men by Andrew Ferebee - The Easy Peasy Way to Quit Porn - Pornified: How Pornography is Damaging Our Lives, Our Relationships and Our Families by Pamela Paul - Resources from Dr. Patrick Carnes: official website and online assessment tests - "Your Brain On Porn" official website - "Fight the New Drug" official website - TED talk “Why I stopped watching porn” by Ran Gavrieli - TED talk “Everything you think you know about addiction is wrong” by Johann Hari Send as an anonymous one-way text message