Podcast Host · Islamic Educator · Speaker

Lena Tleib

Host and creator of Shaded with Lena Tleib — deepening the understanding of Islam and cultivating unity and inclusivity, one conversation at a time. Chicago-based educator, speaker, and nonprofit event organizer.

About

Making Islamic knowledge feel personal, warm, and accessible.

Lena Tleib is the creator and host of Shaded with Lena Tleib (also published under the name Shaded on the Day of Judgment), a podcast dedicated to deepening the understanding of Islam while cultivating a sense of unity and inclusivity among all listeners. Across more than 100 episodes, she explores Islamic teachings and history through candid lectures and discussions — most recently through the Serene Heart series, a study of the qualities that shape a sincere and contented heart.

Alongside her work behind the mic, Lena serves as Advertising & Events Coordinator at Zakat Foundation of America, where she puts the same values of service and community into charitable outreach, event planning, and fundraising campaigns. Based in the Chicago area, she blends storytelling, scholarship, and grassroots organizing to bring Islamic teachings to a wider audience — on air, on stage, and on the ground.

Quick facts

  • Host & CreatorShaded with Lena Tleib
  • Advertising & Events CoordinatorZakat Foundation of America
  • Based inChicago area, IL
  • FocusIslamic spirituality, history & character

The Podcast

Shaded with Lena Tleib

"Dedicated to deepening the understanding of Islam, while aiming to cultivate a sense of unity and inclusivity among all listeners." Now past 101 episodes in Religion & Spirituality, exploring Islamic teachings and history through insightful lectures and discussion.

Featured series — Serene Heart

Serene Heart

Degree of Modesty

An introduction to modesty as a marker of Islamic character and everyday practice.

21:53May 2025
Serene Heart

Signs of Sincerity

Exploring the indicators of genuine spiritual commitment within Islamic practice.

17:57May 2025
Serene Heart

Be Sincere! The Degree of Sincerity

A closer look at the levels and importance of sincerity in religious devotion.

24:05May 2025
Serene Heart

Character of the People of Jannah

Examining the virtuous qualities described of those promised paradise.

23:59Apr 2025
Serene Heart

Degree of Discipline

How different levels of self-discipline shape spiritual development.

30:34Apr 2025
Serene Heart

Degrees of Hope

A reflection on hope as a spiritual station, and how to hold it rightly.

17:14Apr 2025
Serene Heart

Station of Contentment (Ar-Ridha)

Unpacking contentment with the divine decree as a station of the heart.

14:49Apr 2025
Serene Heart

The Rewards of the Patient

What patience earns the believer, drawn from Islamic teaching and history.

11:09Mar 2025

101 episodes and counting — hear the full catalog on Spotify

Speaking & Lectures

Bringing the same depth to live audiences.

Beyond the podcast, Lena leads lectures, intensives, and discussions for Shaded on the Day of Judgment — a 501(c)(3) organization built to give the community a safe, enriching space to learn and share Islamic knowledge.

  • Sincerity & Spiritual Growth
  • Character & Akhlaq
  • Islamic History
  • Community & Unity
  • Contentment & Trust in Allah
Featured Speaker — 3rd Annual Muslim Youth Expo Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC), representing Zakat Foundation of America

Programs at Shaded on the Day of Judgment

Intensives

Structured, in-depth educational programs on Islamic teachings.

Lectures & Events

Live talks and community gatherings centered on faith and history.

Videos & Podcast

Ongoing series exploring scripture, character, and everyday practice.

Explore all programs at shadeddoj.org

Community & Service

Service that extends past the microphone.

As Advertising & Events Coordinator at Zakat Foundation of America, Lena channels the same values of sincerity and unity from her podcast into direct, on-the-ground charitable work.

Sadaqah Jariyah Projects

Organizing ongoing-charity campaigns given on behalf of loved ones and the community.

Emergency Relief Appeals

Coordinating rapid-response fundraising for communities facing crisis.

Water Well Projects

Supporting long-term development campaigns that provide lasting access to clean water.

Shaded on the Day of Judgment is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Learn about Zakat Foundation of America  ·  Support Shaded

Let's Connect

For speaking invitations, collaborations, or just to say salam.

info@shadeddoj.org

Bridgeview / Chicago, IL