Welcome Home Podcast

The Unexpected Gifts of Ramadan 10.02.2025 46min

Ramadan is often seen as a time of discipline and devotion, but its deepest gifts sometimes arrive in ways we don’t anticipate. In this episode of The Welcome Home Podcast, Dr. Will Caldwell, Mike Swies, and Danny Kulasik reflect on how to approach Ramadan with an open heart—free from rigid expectations of how it’s "supposed" to feel. Instead of chasing spiritual highs, they explore what it means to surrender to the month as it unfolds, trusting that its blessings will come in their own time. They also discuss how this year’s fast takes on new meaning in the wake of a ceasefire in Gaza and a moment of relative peace, and how the struggles in Palestine connect to the broader teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and humanity as a whole.

Word to the Wise: Seeking Truth and Hope 27.01.2025 48min

Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ. In this session, Dr. Ali Dia, Executive Director of Ta'leef, is filling in for Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans. Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate

Word to the Wise: Happiness with that which Lasts 27.01.2025 55min

Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ. Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate

The Golden Thread: A Look Back at 2024 13.01.2025 50min

In this reflective episode of The Welcome Home Podcast, Dr. Ali Dia, Dr. Will Caldwell, Mike Swies, and special guest Mousa Al-Sweis celebrate the high points of 2024 at Taleef. They share stories of the many shahadas throughout the year, reminisce about the inspiring Newcomers Retreat in Colombia, and highlight the strides Taleef has made in fostering a culture of inclusion and care. As they look back, they also look ahead with excitement to the upcoming release of a new instructional video on how to pray Salah. Join the conversation as they weave together the golden moments of the year into a tapestry of hope and gratitude.

’Tis the Season 18.11.2024 41min

Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas—how should Muslims approach these widely celebrated holidays? In this episode of The Welcome Home Podcast, Dr. Ali Dia, Dr. Will Caldwell, and Mike Swies dive into the sub-consensus among Muslims regarding these occasions. Our hosts explore the challenges this season brings for Muslims, especially new converts, who may feel torn between cultural traditions and their faith. How can the community navigate these complexities with balance and integrity?

Advice for the Journey: The Friends of God 16.11.2024 30min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: The Day of Judgement 16.11.2024 24min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Word to the Wise: Prayer is a Repository of Goodwill 11.11.2024 51min

Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ. Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate

Word to the Wise: Making Obedience a Habit 11.11.2024 51min

Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ. Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate

Word to the Wise: Everything Begins with the Heart 11.11.2024 54min

Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ. Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate

Word to the Wise: Acting in Accordance with Knowledge 11.11.2024 54min

Ibn Ata’illah al-Skandari’s Taj al-Arus, or The Bridegroom’s Crown: Containing Instructions on Refining the Self, is a timeless manual of practical spirituality for Muslims of all backgrounds. It contains 345 aphorisms with which Ibn Ata’illah provides guidance on rectifying oneself by cultivating a deep sense of gratitude toward God. He gives advice on everything from the futility of relying on our own capabilities, rather than God’s, to practical matters such as eating and keeping good company. This installment of our series, Word to the Wise, with Shaykh Ubaydullah Evans will provide an accessible, two-year exploration of the spiritual tradition of Islam that is grounded in the Book of God and the example of His Messenger ﷺ. Join our classes: https://www.taleefcollective.org/events Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.taleefcollective.org/podcast Donate: https://www.taleefcollective.org/donate

Advice for the Journey: When to Seek Allah 11.11.2024 22min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: The Angels 11.11.2024 25min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 11.11.2024 30min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: Allah's Pride 11.11.2024 28min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: Mercy & Punishment 11.11.2024 39min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: Building 11.11.2024 32min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: Benefiting 11.11.2024 27min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: Sincerity & New Beginnings 11.11.2024 33min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.

Advice for the Journey: Growing 11.11.2024 26min

The ahadith qudsiyyah, or sacred sayings of Allah, are reports from the Messenger of God ﷺ about God’s speech which is not contained in the Quran. Each of these sacred sayings is like a secret from Allah, where He reveals intimate details about Himself and the relationship He wants with humanity. We will explore selected sayings from the collection, al-arba’een al-qudsiyyah, each week to reveal principles that will empower us in our journeys toward knowing our Lord. Join us in this virtual community learning space designed for seekers and newcomers to Islam! Over these 8-weeks, we will explore the wisdom in these sacred sayings of God with Dr. Will Caldwell.