The Muslim James Bond: Reclaiming Agency in the Face of Extremism

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In Episode 304 of Derate The Hate, Wilk sits down with Mubin Shaikh — a former extremist who deradicalized after 9/11 and went on to work undercover against terrorism.

Born and raised in Toronto, Mubin experienced an identity crisis that led him toward violent Islamist extremism as a young man. But marriage, fatherhood, and the events of 9/11 forced him to confront hard questions about ideology, violence, and truth.

After studying Arabic and Islamic theology in Syria, he returned to Canada and became an undercover operative for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. His work helped dismantle terror networks, including the infamous Toronto 18 case.

Today, Mubin works with Parents for Peace, helping families intervene before radicalization turns violent.

This episode explores:
• The psychology of radicalization
• Identity crisis and youth vulnerability
• Moral dilemmas of undercover work
• The online pipeline to extremism
• Parenting in the digital age
• Courageous citizenship and reclaiming agency

Radicalization isn’t “over there.” It can happen anywhere the ingredients are present.

Learn more about and connect with Mubin Shaikh by getting the full show notes at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

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