I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!): Recent Episodes

Shehla

It's easy to be afraid of the Muslim around the corner, but let me tell ya', we're just here for the food!A speak easy where I will talk about almost everything in life from the perspective of a Muslim in the U.S.

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In the last Presidential elections one-in-three Americans did not vote.
That is an alarming number! And with the upcoming elections in November,
I sit down with Marlón Duran, the Texas Regional Field Organizer for the Jill Stein campaign, and we discuss the reasons why so many Americans do not vote and what can be done about it.
Tune in to this episode on the importance of exercising your right of self-determination, even when everything around us seems like one huge dumpster fire!

You can also view this episode on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/-f9Cpvm-i6I

Be sure you are registered to vote before the upcoming elections. Find out if you are at https://vote.gov/

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

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For this seasons very first Gift of the Gab, I interview my friend Jessica Elgamil, who is a certified yoga teacher by trade, and she just returned from an aid mission to Egypt.

She recounts how the opportunity came about to help Palestinian refugees, who had escaped the genocide in Palestine through the Rafah border in Egypt. But escaping the war is only the first step for refugees, in the very difficult process of rebuilding their lives.

I discuss with her the experience with the aid distribution in Egypt and what else (besides monetary aid) is needed by the refugees to help them get back on their feet.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/9tWjK255Wpk

You can follow Jessica on Instagram @jessicaelgamil
And you can also help Palestinian refugees in Egypt through Egyptians for Palestine on Instagram @egyptians_for_palestinians

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Send me a Text Message!

In this week's episode we tackle a subject that has long been a subject of political discourse, especially when it relates to the carceral system within the United States.

I've covered the subject of addiction before on the podcast, but in this episode I interview, Ustadh Tabari Zahir, the founding director of the "Lamps of Light Project". A project dedicated to helping Muslims overcoming addictions through their services and one that also serves to eliminate the stigma around it, so that more people can seek help for it.

Ustadh Zahir, delves into the methodologies of treatment and also how the hardships in his past became the driving force of what he does now.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/3R2rIiHrjqw

If you want to learn more about the Lamps of Light Project, you can visit their website at: www.lampsoflight.org

You can also follow them on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube through the handle @lampsoflightproject

And if you believe in the mission of Lamps of Light please do consider donating to their cause here: Donate to Lamps of Light

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

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The Summer is over and I am BAAAACK!

Season 10 has begun, and unfortunately the world is still on fire...

But don't worry, all hope is NOT lost because it is election year and guess what?! People are sick and tired of the madness and they are rising up for what matters to them and they are demanding better from their elected officials.

So, this season will be dedicated to helping my listeners make informed choices about WHAT they want from their elected officials.

So, stay tuned all this season as I bring in guests who are in the socio-political sphere, to bring in all important perspectives about what is good for our and our children's futures!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/4Bh-m2d3I6I

Support the Show.

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Send me a Text Message!

This is it! My 100th episode and having y'all as my audience for four years now! I can't thank y'all enough for being there with me, during the evolution of my podcast AND me!

And that's the recap I do for this episode, sort of taking a trip down memory lane about how all this started, how my segments developed, and a look back at some of my more memorable episodes!

Use this link to watch this episode on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/XPmEX2QBu7o

You can view some of the episodes that I have mentioned in this episode through these links:

My interview with Zaakirah Muhammad: https://youtu.be/QpEXjjTIP14?si=elK96VcFz0ZBRmWy
My interview with Tom Facchine: https://youtu.be/ET0Ide6DsM4?si=a0FjTQI47pAvaqRy
My interview with Khalidah Bilal on Domestic Violence: https://youtu.be/KbIbgp0L-jM?si=88NB4ieCQHB06RMh
My interview with Shariea Shoatz on Childhood Sexual Assault: https://youtu.be/eE5NKrYEzNg?si=wyfK0atBxnO8GFJJ
My interview with Professor Rudolph Ware on Colonization: https://youtu.be/mbalV4_1ZW4?si=jH-RlbFB5ebENIMc
My interview with Clarke Jones: https://youtu.be/g0ZSmmWCn2k?si=lnV1rui9Y2WV1PCl

I couldn't have gotten here without all y'all and would love feedback on what my future episodes should be about. You can email me questions and comments at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com.

And don't forget to follow me on social media to get all the extra tidbits of that I can't release as a podcast episode! (links below!)

Support the Show.

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Send me a Text Message!

Summer has begun! And you know that means so many of us will be traveling on vacation! Heck, I just came back from Japan! And the experience got me thinking about how we can make travel more than just a chance to unwind. It can also be a chance for us to learn from different cultures and break a lot of preconceived notions.

This solo episode breaks down how travel and becoming a better person can and should go hand-in-hand!

Support the Show.

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Send me a Text Message!

When doing the work of activism for a cause, it sometimes happens that we experience tunnel vision; assuming that it is the only thing that is important. That is what sort of happened to me, I lost sight for a bit of the bigger picture.

Ever since October 7th, the World at large has been raising its voice for a free Palestine and as important as that is, we shouldn't forget that that isn't the only major atrocity that is happening in the world. The same demons of of corporate greed and capitalism are responsible for the genocides in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Yemen, and the list goes on and on.

That is what I discuss in this episode about the importance of not micro-focusing our activism and to check the fact that are we biased when it comes to WHO we will raise our voices for? Because if we are then we will end up perpetuating the cycles of oppression that we need to abolish forever!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/q2Ea6GjBk7I

To Support efforts in Palestine be sure to donate and share to the fundraisers listed by Operation Olive Branch: https://www.instagram.com/operationolivebranch/

To find out more about the situation in DRC and to donate to help the people on the ground, please follow Friends of the Congo: https://www.instagram.com/congofriends/

To learn more about the situation in Sudan please follow the Red Maat collective:https://www.instagram.com/red_maat/
And to help the people in Sudan please donate here: https://www.instagram.com/sudanese_american_physicians/

To learn more about the Uyghars and their heritage please follow Uyghar Collective Here: https://www.instagram.com/uyghurcollective/following/

Support the Show.

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Send me a Text Message!

For this The Whole Muslim segment I interview one of my FAV returning guest, Khalidah Bilal, (you can watch my first interview with her on her work with domestic violence victims here) who is a licensed Life Coach and the founder of Kindred Barakah.

Kindred Barakah is an initiative through which Khalidah helps provide transitional services to all, like, individual and group coaching sessions, financial assistance, end-of-life services and more!

Kindred Barakah helps people get through the difficult points in their lives, and Khalidah works tirelessly to make sure no one is turned away!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/6wvlp1vDuJA

To find out more about what services Kindred Barakah provides, visit their website at: www.kindredbarakah.com

Support the Show.

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

You might think that a henna studio and a comedy stage can't ever come together, but my guest this week, Marena Riyad, would prove you wrong!

I talk to Marena, who founded the Haus of Henna AND Kufiya Comedy right here in the DFW Metro area and we discuss how she came into such unusual professions to begin.
I explore her passion for bringing to the forefront her Palestinian heritage through the art of story-telling and comedy AND how that has translated to her holding a multicultural Kufiya Comedy Festival this year, coinciding with world Kufiya Day!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/vWkoaXXiRMg

To find out more about the Kufiya Comedy and the Kufiya Comedy Festival you can use the following links:
Website: https://www.kufiyacomedytx.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kufiyacomedy/

You can also use my code "PEACE" to get an extra 10% discount on the tickets! (limited time only)

You can also find the Haus of Henna on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thehausofhenna/

Support the Show.

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media!
Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

The world is topsy turvy and we gotta do what we can to make it right! That's why as a part of my 4 year and 100 episodes celebration, I will be creating a video series called "100 Good Things", in an effort to bring a sense of hope to the ongoing effort to bring collective liberation to all those who are oppressed.

Find details of that in this episode and as always you can watch this episode on YouTube as well: https://youtu.be/NtWuQrH77aY

And to watch this series of videos please follow me on Instagram and YouTube (links below!)

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

In this Gift of the Gab, I discuss collective liberation with my guest, Tai, a Sudanese-Canadian activist, writer and the founder of, The Red Ma'at Collective.She opens up about how her past as an asylum seeker really shaped her journey to heal her trauma through the practice of yoga. And how that led her to create circles of healing and collective liberation for other people.

We talk about the importance of collective liberation and how it is the means of freeing people globally from the systems of oppression and exploitation

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/QTDvGM5Zhpg

You can use the links below to find out more about Tai and The Red Ma'at Collective :
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/red_maat/
https://www.instagram.com/redmaat_collective/
https://www.instagram.com/redmaat_healing/

Website
https://www.theredmaatcollective.org/

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

When life presents to you your favorite Muslim children's story-book author, you gotta interview him!

In this episode I interview the renowned creator of the "Ilyas and Duck" children's story books, Omar Khawaja and it was an absolute pleasure being able to find out how this dynamic boy and duck duo came into being, and why it has such great appeal amongst kids!

We go into the reason behind the creation of Ilyas and Duck and how it has grown into a complete Ilyas and Duck universe, through online webtoons and in-person shows! And with a new book just released, this well-loved series of children's stories is here to stay!

You can also watch this interview on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/SEVXVGnWhvo

To find out more about Ilyas and Duck books and where to buy them from you can check out the book website: https://www.littlebigkids.com/

And you can also follow them on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ilyasandduck/

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

The very first Gift of the Gab of the season and I could not be more honored than to have my first guest on, singer-songwriter, Leila Hegazy!

Her protest cover-versions of popular songs are a hit, and a ray of light in a social-media scape that still seems to be denying what is happening in Palestine.

We deep dive into how she got into creating these thought-provoking covers, the process and the reaction to them from her audience.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/AXalw0X7jfM

To follow Leila Hegazy on social media you can use the following handles:

Instagram: @leilahegazy
TikTok: @leila.hegazy

She is also in a band with her twin sister and you can find them on social media with handle @hegazyband

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Opening this season with a bang with a guest I've been wanting have on for FOREVER!
In the very first episode of 'The Whole Muslim' for this season, I feature, Sarah Albassri or "Instructor Sarah" as she is known on social media.

Sarah is a 3rd year Ph.D student, but her claim to fame online is for being a Tae Kwando instructor, who got famous showing off all her amazing moves while being VERY pregnant!

But life hasn't always been smooth sailing for Sarah and we delve deep into how she was forced to immigrate to the U.S. in 2013 because of war breaking out in Syria. It was a tough adjustment for Sarah but lucky for her (and us!) that she found community within a Tae Kwando dojo and the rest is history!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/O7rZID3dNA8

You can find Sarah on Instagram and TikTok with the handle @InstructorSarah

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Your favorite podcaster is BACK! And I am 4 years and 9 seasons in (please, don't ask me the math, I'm just making this up as I go :D)

But I have been in a bit of an emotional rut, I had really looked forward to celebrating my 4 years and upcoming 100 episode. But with how the situation is in Palestine, I cannot bring myself to do so...

So, for now I will just be bringing you more episodes, more interviews and more perspectives as usual. And maybe if the situation changes, I might do a giveaway.
But until then, if you are an ardent listener of mine and understand how dire the situation is in Palestine, please pressure your representatives for a ceasefire and the allowance of aid to the people of Palestine.

You can also donate to the following organizations that are working tirelessly to help the people in Palestine and the Gaza Strip:

UNRWA
Bait-ul-Maal

This Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P4g3laILbaU

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

TRIGGER WARNING This episode discusses sexual assault

In this episode, I talk to content creator and a recent convert to Islam, Clarke Jones.

We trace her tumultuous Faith journey, and how she came to Islam, a few short weeks after October 7th, and the beginning of the relentless Israeli aggression against Palestinians. How that inspired her to be a content creators, and raise awareness
about the atrocities in Palestine.
And how her novel "makeup tutorials" are a clever workaround to the slew of
social media bans around the subject.

You can also view this episode on my YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/g0ZSmmWCn2k

Find Clarke's blog and social media handles below:

Blog: https://bestierebellion.com/
TikTok and Instagram: @clarkeunleashed

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

In this episode, I talk to fellow podcaster from the 'Mommying While Muslim' podcast,
Dr. Uzma Jafri.

Not only is she a Physician and co-hosts an award-winning podcast, but she is
actually trained in civil protest protocols!

And at this time when protesting for the rights of the people of Palestine
is so important, she gives important pointers on how to do it safely!

The Mommying While Muslim podcast is also dedicating their December series to highlight the situation in Palestine, so don't forget to follow them on all major platforms!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/kpSVpixhj8I

Follow this link to find Mommying While Muslim podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mommyingwhilemuslimpodcast/

You can also get in touch with them via email at: salam@mommyingwhilemuslim.com

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Having social media presence under any capacity does create its share of issues. But I never expected blatant censorship and shadow-banning would be one of them. Social media is not exactly the friendliest place for socially aware Muslims and those POC who refuse to stay silent on social justice issues.

In this episode I highlight some of the hurdles I have personally faced when trying to raise awareness about the plight of the Palestinian people, and I'm just a small time creator! I can only imagine how hard it must be for larger influencers who are putting everything on the line to be on the right side of history!

Below are some of the links for some of the things I have discussed in the episode:

Man sets himself on fire to bring attention to the genocide in Congo: https://themessenger.com/news/man-sets-himself-on-fire-while-holding-sign-stop-the-genocide-in-congo

My protest song (cover of "Zombie" by the Cranberries): https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cy9Qnc-NO20/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

My metrics comparison video, and how suppression and shadow-banning affects content creators: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzB9zVvtl-7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/kRgF72oOMwM

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

In this episode I talk to, Dr. Rose Aslan, a certified Transformational Life Coach, and we talk about her time in the academic and public sphere, when she and other public Muslims became the "face" of an entire community. Especially after 9/11 and the Trump administration.

How that crippling pressure of representing and collectively defending Muslims can take a toll, especially when media rhetoric is less than favorable towards Muslims.

You can watch this episode on my YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/jO1eqxj6MVU

You can also follow Dr. Rose Aslan through these links:

https://compassionflow.com/

https://www.instagram.com/dr.rose.aslan/

https://www.facebook.com/rsaslan

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Sorry, ladies and gentlemen, this year will have no Halloween episode. Because we can all see that the horrors that humanity wreaks on itself are far more horrendous than any spooky story I could possibly find.

This episode is my monologue on the genocide that is going on on the Palestinian people. The oppression and killings are happening with blatant cruelty and our taxpayer dollars are funding it!

A ceasefire has to happen and it has to happen now!

Call your Representative and call President Biden to demand a ceasefire and additional aid passage for the people of Gaza.

Below are links to contact your Representative and demand action, petitions you can sign to make your voice heard and accounts you can follow that will help you give a more balanced perspective about what is happening in Palestine:

https://www.jewishvoiceforpeace.org/take-action/#act-now
https://www.jewishvoiceforpeace.org/resource/email-congress-to-stop-fueling-violence/
https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/d/1UPPbp0d9QlRn1wvQ91YJQHLfd22WSp1d9b6dO4i0RmI/mobilebasic
https://docs.google.com/document/d/119OD9wiAUtPPBpetZN_P7jjcHMHiR6ZJcWqOahS71Lo/mobilebasic?pli=1

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/Zw25fyWbDqU

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

Trigger Warning Episode discusses suicide and suicidal ideation

It's another heavy one folks! But I am hoping that this one helps shed some light on how difficult it can be to get suicide research data, especially in underrepresented communities.

In this episode I talk to, Amelia Noor Oshiro, the Muslim suicide researcher, who has dedicated her PhD study to researching the potential causes of suicide within Muslim communities.

We discuss the various factors that are known to impact suicide rates
in immigrant and marginalized communities and how her research could help provide help to those that are under-represented in suicide research.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/SZ01E2bin1g

If you are Muslim and wish to help Amelia's research you can fill out her survey here: www.tinyurl.com/muslimcommunitystudy

And you can also follow Amelia on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/muslim.suicide.researcher/

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

What does a podcast host do when they hit a creative block? They ask their audience of course!

Y'all I'm fast approaching 100 episodes and 4 years and I'm not sure how to carry on bringing y'all the best that I can! So, please help me out! If you have ideas or subjects you want me to cover, people you'd love me to interview, PLEASE tell me! Send me an email at : shehla.faizi01@gmail.com . Or just send me a DM on my socials (links below!).

But, I need y'all's help BAD, because I am stuck!

You can watch this episode on my YouTube channel too: https://youtu.be/WPSQJ6P3hac

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

TRIGGER WARNING - Discussion of Substance Abuse and Suicide.
This is a difficult discussion to have but an important one. No one wants to believe that themself or their children could be in a position where their vulnerability gets the best of them and they could end up in the depths of substance abuse and suicidal ideation.

But that is exactly what happened to my guest, motivational speaker, Belal Elkadri, and I am so grateful he sat down with me to have this frank discussion on this important topic. He gives insight into what often leads people, especially children, down these paths and how we as parents and the community can do more to be sources of support and help.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PWUalru1xC4

To get in touch with Belal or to find out more about the topics he speaks on you can use the following links to his website and social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourbrotherbelal/
Website: https://belalelkadri.com/

Please, if you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide call the Suicide hotline at: 988
They can and will help you! You can find more helpful resources at their website: https://988lifeline.org/

Or if you are just having a hard time and cannot reach your counselor or cannot afford one there are warmlines you can call. You can find the number in your state here: https://warmline.org/

Support the show

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast

How do you get people to become more sex-positive? You pivot your medical career and train to become an intimacy coach and at the same time start a podcast to get more people aware about their sexual wellness! And that is exactly what Dr. Sadaf Lodhi did!

In this episode we have a wonderful conversation about how she discovered the lack of knowledge even within medical professionals about sexual fulfillment led her to become an intimacy coach to shatter the taboos around sex that hinder a lot of people from getting the most from their sex lives.

You can also watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/A_xZFfmG7qU

You can find out more about Dr. Lodhi through the following links:
The Muslim Sex Podcast: https://drsadaf.com/podcast
Website: https://drsadaf.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsadafobgyn/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drsadafobgyn

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

Information and access to reproductive health is essential for all women but there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all . That is where HEART to Grow comes in, which provides reproductive health information and workshops specifically catered to Muslims of all different backgrounds.

I had the good fortune of interviewing Kiran Waqar, the Social Media and Youth Engagement Coordinator at HEART, and we talked about the need that led to the formation of the organization and how it helps create access to reproductive health for Muslim women through community driven needs.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/sjHiFLt6MUo

To find out more about what HEART does through it's social media handle @hearttogrow, and on its website: https://hearttogrow.org/

You can also find their Sex Talk book on Amazon over here: https://www.amazon.com/Sex-Talk-Muslims-Healthy-Relationships/dp/0578377446/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2Z1C722OJP0D6&keywords=the+sex+talk+a+muslims+guide&qid=1692318123&sprefix=the+sex+talk%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-1

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

Season 8 is here!! And because I have been in an extra mood all Summer, I decided to start it with a bang with not one, but TWO guests!

This episode of "The Whole Muslim" segment features returning guest, Professor Rudolph "B-Ware" and his partner in rhyme, Chime "Chizabam" Umesi and we dive in on how they came together to form the rap/hip-hop duo, Slum Prophecy. We explore its beginnings and how B-Ware and Chizabam strive to create music through it that transcends conventional hip-hop to bring in a sound that is mature and is also spiritually driven!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/FOBAz2pCaDc

You can download Slum Prophecy's current album here:
https://the-ink-of-the-scholars.myshopify.com/products/slum-prophecy-vol-iv-whips-chains

Follow Slum Prophecy, Chizabam and B-Ware on Instagram here:

https://www.instagram.com/slumprophecy/
https://www.instagram.com/chizabam/
https://www.instagram.com/butchware/

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

It is the last episode of the season and what better way to end a season than with a bang!

I had the great pleasure of interviewing Historian and Academic, Professor Rudolph Ware and I got to do what I love to do the most: tackle difficult subjects!

And for this episode we discussed colonization and its impacts on BIPOC communities in the U.S. and globally, specifically how colonization affects how we see ourselves in the context of the bigger picture. Professor Ware breaks down how colonization created racial and social hierarchies around the world and how we are seeing the affects of it even now.

This episode is absolutely essential for all those who want to start their journey of decolonization and standing in their own power as members of BIPOC communities!

You can also view this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/mbalV4_1ZW4

You can follow Professor Ware on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/butchware/

You can find his books, "The Walking Quran" and "Jihad of the Pen" through these links:

https://uncpress.org/book/9781469614311/the-walking-quran/

https://academic.oup.com/jis/article-abstract/32/3/436/6304990?redirectedFrom=fulltext

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

War is Hell, but we often only see it as a conflict of grown ups and overlook how it impacts the children caught in the middle of it.

For this segment of "Gift of the Gab" I interview Dr. Nour Akhras, a pediatrician and who has been on a number of medical missions in war-torn areas. Her experiences there and how 9/11 impacted her being Muslim in America, inspired her to write her book, "Just One: A Journey of Perseverance and Conviction".

We discuss her experiences working within the areas of conflict and what are the impacts of war and displacement on children?

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/0kuy3-RP5q8

You can find out more about Dr. Akhras's work and her book through these links:

https://nourakhras.com/
https://www.instagram.com/nourakhrasmd/
https://www.facebook.com/nour.akhras
Proceeds from Dr. Akhras's book go to support MedGlobal that do incredible humanitarian work in areas of conflict. Please consider supporting them: https://medglobal.org/

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

May is 'Mental Health Awareness' and there could be no better time for me to have a discussion with, Allissa Torres, the Director of Mental Health Equity at the non-profit organization, Mental Health America (MHA)!

We talk about the stigma around mental health in BIPOC communities and the need to overcome taboos through education and resources. MHA provides a number of educational resources and tools, including free diagnostic tests, guidance toolkits and resources specifically for people of color!

You can watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/WKKu7BM0Q9s

To find out more about the MHA organization click on the following links:

MHA Website: https://mhanational.org/
Mental Health Screening Tests: www.mhascreening.org
MHA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthamerica/

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

I welcome my guest, Saira Sufi, to take a deep dive into the discussion of how one of her twin son's diagnoses of a rare bone marrow disorder, Aplastic Anemia led her and her remaining son to become staunch advocates for bone marrow donations.
Recruiting bone marrow donors of racial minorities is important, because finding bone marrow matches for minorities and mixed race individuals is especially hard.
This is why Saira works hard to raise awareness and to recruit as many people to be bone marrow donors as possible.
This episode is a testament to the fortitude of a family in memory of a very special young boy.

To find out more about being a bone marrow donor please visit the following website and consider being a donor yourself. It is a chance to truly change someone's life!

https://bethematch.org

https://www.aamds.org/

www.teamwatience.org

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/xgImkpUhWJg

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

Happy Eid to my Muslim listeners and to EEEEVVERYONE! Even though Ramadan is over but with my kids fasting this time I learned some new lessons from the month and by the end of it we will be celebrating Eid!

This episode is just a few reflections from Ramadan that sort of came up for me and how Muslims in the U.S. are trying to make Eid extra special for their kids.

You can also watch the episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/pJvitSrLthk

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
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It is that time of year again! Ramadan and all the Muslims be fasting from dawn to dusk! And my kids doing it too (Bless them!)

Watching my kids I suddenly realized how different it is being a Muslim kid celebrating Ramadan in the U.S. as opposed to in a Muslim country. So, join me as I take a nostalgic look and comparison between Ramadan here and Ramadan when I was growing up in Pakistan.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Rf4sH5Dopks

If you have any questions you'd like me to answer about Ramadan, please feel free to send me an email at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com

You can also DM me in my socials below!

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

TRIGGER WARNING: Episode speaks of suicide and suicidal ideation. Listener Discretion is advised.

This episode is a tough one because life threw a curve ball and it hit me square in the face. I discuss everything from major life changes to a very real mental health crisis I faced. I was caught unaware, but I got lucky, because it could have ended very badly for me.

I learned that suicide and suicidal ideation are not reserved for those who are "very depressed".

Please, if you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide call the Suicide hotline at: 988
They can and will help you! You can find more helpful resources at their website: https://988lifeline.org/

Or if you are just having a hard time and cannot reach your counselor or cannot afford one there are warmlines you can call. You can find the number in your state here: https://warmline.org/

If you are unsure of either of these resources you can find more information about how they work in this "Smarter in Seconds" video by the wonderful Blair Imani: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CmNMLBpA3kZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Or if nothing else, I'm always here if you need someone to talk to in private about this to sort this out. You can always email me at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com, or you can DM me on Instagram @imamuslimpodcast

This episode is also available to view on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/XpzbHwHahDY

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

Sometimes your ideal guest just falls into your lap in the form of a book!

That's exactly what happened when I was sent a copy of, "Broken: The Failed Promise of Muslim Inclusion" , by one of the leading experts on the history of representations of Arabs and Muslims in the US. media, Evelyn Alsultany.

I had the great privilege of talking to her about how Muslim representation has evolved over the years, and how she outlines in her book that certain Muslim tropes in the past have been very problematic even when they move past the "terrorist" narrative. We also talk about her co-authored media benchmark, the Obeidi-Alsultany test and how studios are using that to create more authentic Muslim diversity in the media context.

You can also watch this interview on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/0y3bjwK0kuE

You can find out more about Evelyn on her website at: www.evelynalsultany.com
You can also follow her on Twitter: @evelynalsultany
And on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evelynalsultany/

You can buy Evelyn's book, "Broken: The Failed Promise of Muslim Inclusion", wherever books are sold and also on the NYUPress website: https://nyupress.org/9781479823963/broken/

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
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I know the Winter was hard without me! But I am back and bringing to you season 7 of "I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!)", with all new solo episodes, interviews and the crowd favorite 'Ask a Muslim' segment. So, if you have any questions that you'd like this Muslim to answer just send them my way via email at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com . Or send me a DM on my socials (links below!)

And not just that, I have been podcasting now for THREE YEARS! Can you believe it??? I can't! And also I am coming up on 100 episodes, so tell me y'all should I do a giveaway for three years or 100 episodes? (unfortunately, I can't do two giveaways :')

But thank you to all of you who have stayed with me for so long , and enjoy this episode of my breakdown for this season. And if you'd rather watch this episode you can do so here: https://youtu.be/0igNaxZWyGk

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
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The end of 2022!!! How did that happen?? I mean, it started off with my 2 year, 50 episodes celebration giveaway. But the rest of the year...it's been a tricky, y'all, lots of things happened for me and for America. Some good, some not so good and I do a roundup of all that the year brought for me in terms of experiences and new episodes! I got to interview some amazing guests and you can check out all my previous episodes on your favorite platform through my linktree: https://linktr.ee/iamatopodcast

I had some episodes that were especially impactful for me that I mention in this episode and you can find them in the following links:

The Muslim Perspective: https://youtu.be/7UD43DkuBQA
Gift of the Gab!: Talking About Combating Sexual Assault Towards Children with Shariea Shoatz: https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/podcast/episode/79aa03c8/gift-of-the-gab-talking-about-combating-sexual-assault-towards-children-with-shariea-shoatz
The Whole Muslim with Dr. Sameena Zahoor: Fostering Change: https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/podcast/episode/7b5a875c/the-whole-muslim-with-dr-sameena-zahoor-fostering-change
Gift of the Gab!: Examining the Foster Care System from the Inside with Nahela Morales: https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/podcast/episode/7d9d6a42/gift-of-the-gab-examining-the-foster-care-system-from-the-inside-with-nahela-morales
The Whole Muslim: Re-Writing Perspectives with Leah V. : https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/podcast/episode/7cdfb525/the-whole-muslim-re-writing-perspectives-with-leah-v

You can also watch my year end roundup on my YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/qeFJ1Y0-lKc

Thank you again for being with me through my podcasting journey. I'll be taking January off, but I'll be back with a new season in February of 2023! See you then!!

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
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https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

In this episode I have the incredible opportunity to interview author, body-positivity activist and the first International plus-sized model, Leah V!

We talk about how her passion for writing gave way to her starting her modeling career, in an industry that doesn't take kindly to plus-sized models! But Leah V. pushed through the odds and has been featured in Vogue, The New York Times and has modeled for big brands like UGG, Adidas, Athleta, Dove, Target and SOOOO many more!

We discuss how all this culminated to her going back to her roots of writing and publishing her latest dystopian, fiction novel, "The Union".

Set in the future, "The Union" puts systems of class, race and oppression under the microscope in the most unconventional way possible. And I'm not gonna lie, I was not prepared by how uncomfortable 'the turning of tables' made me!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/0r2Raiq6dVw

To get your own copy of "The Union" you can find them at your local bookstores or you can find them on Leah V. 's website: http://www.leahvernon.com/unashamedleahvernonbook

You can also follow Leah V. on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/lvernon2000/

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

In this episode of my 'Gift of the Gab' segment, I interview DEI Practitioner, Rahimeh Ramizany, and we discuss the importance of being inclusive in the workplace to the religious needs of practicing minority groups. Specializing in religious inclusivity for minorities, Rahimeh helps companies create an environment that is accepting and accommodating for workers of Faith.

You can also watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/LarTgOv7wZc

To find out more about Rahimeh and what she does, you can find her on the following links:

https://rahimehramezany.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahimeh-ramezany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rahimehramezany/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rahimehramezany

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

In this episode of the Gift of the Gab, I interview, Nahela Morales, well known
in Muslim circles as a public speaker, humanitarian and co-founder of the
Muslim convert organization, EMBRACE.

But what most people don't know is that as a child, she had been in the U.S.
foster care system and we closely examine her experience with the system and what
we can do to make it better!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/H5acQQh4RXw

To find out more about Nahela Morales and all the wonderful work she does, please visit her website at: https://nahelamorales.com/

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

You know I'll never miss a chance to share a good, spooky story! And this year, for Halloween, I decided to do a little bit of online hunting for some ghostly tales from other parts of the world!
From Venezuela to Myanmar, I got your global, spooky fix right here in this episode!

Also, I didn't share ALL of the stories I found, so if you want to read the rest of them, you can find them on these links:
https://www.holbrooktravel.com/blog/cultural/spooky-ghost-stories-around-world

https://www.secret-retreats.com/blog/general-info/6-famous-ghost-stories-from-around-asia.html

Support the showPlease don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and listen to all my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
...

This week I interview foster parent and co-founder of the Muslim Foster Care Association, Dr. Sameena Zahoor. We talk about how she went into fostering and how that led to the creation of the MFCA and delve into the real need for licensed foster parents, especially within the Muslim community.

You can also watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/32iwCR8aswk

To find out more about of what the Muslim Foster Care Association does and donate to support their cause, you can find them through these links:
https://muslimfostercare.org/
https://muslimfostercare.org/donate/
https://www.instagram.com/muslimfostercare/
https://www.facebook.com/mfcassn
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtOdFEYJmOcyPTMhm0ref4g

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and to listen my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

Support the show

Calling all my fantasy nerds!!

I'm so happy to have on this "The Whole Muslim" episode fantasy cosplayer and Tiktoker, A'isha Saleh!

Join us as we talk about her inherited passion for all things fantasy and how that and the deep desire to see more Muslim women representation in popular media inspired her to create her AMAZING, hijab-friendly fantasy cosplay videos!

This episode is best watched because I do show some of the amazing work she does in her videos. You can view it on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/_U9v_91vLRM

You can view her amazing cosplay videos on TikTok and Instagram through these links:
https://www.instagram.com/nosi1ence/

https://www.tiktok.com/@nosi1ence

Please don't forget to follow me here and on social media! Click the to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and to listen my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

Support the show

In this episode of Gift of the Gab, I interview fellow podcaster, RJ Zimmerman, who documents his journey of sobriety in his podcast "Untapped Keg".

Me and RJ discuss all that he has learned on his journey and how that has also uncovered a simultaneous exploration of emotional wellness for him.

We delve deep into how that has changed him and how other men could benefit from emotional healing.

You can also watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/GYruwhEOsGk

To listen to "Untapped Keg" and to get in touch with RJ on social media you can follow these links:
https://www.untappedkeg.com/
https://www.facebook.com/UntappedKeg
https://www.instagram.com/untappedkeg/
https://www.youtube.com/c/UntappedKeg

Follow these links to keep up with my shenanigans on social media and to listen my episodes in one place:
https://www.imamuslimpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast/

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TRIGGER WARNING : Sexual Assault Discussion. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

In this episode of Gift of the Gab, I interview founder and CEO of the Buddy Speaks Foundation, Shariea Shoatz, and how she works to raise awareness against childhood
sexual abuse.

Shariea has also authored the book "My Voice is my Super Power" which is an invaluable tool to help parents arm children with the body safety rules, so they do not fall victim to devious grooming tactics of sexual predators.

This discussion is charged and may be triggering but it is an important one to help protect our children!

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/eE5NKrYEzNg

To find out more about the Buddy Speaks Foundation, please visit: https://buddyspeaks.org/
Use this link to buy the book "My Voice is my Superpower" and other great support products: https://buddyspeaks.org/shop-1
To Donate to the Buddy Speaks Foundation you can Cashapp at: $buddyspeaks
You can find the book "The Body Keeps The Score" here: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748

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The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

My very first "The Whole Muslim" segment for Season 6 and I am overjoyed to have with me Chaplain Sondos Kholaki!

Join me in my conversation with Sondos and how chaplaincy became a part of her life and how she helps to bring spiritual comfort to those in crisis.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/97tIGaCN9ks

You can use these links to follow her or get in touch with Chaplain Sondos Kholaki on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sondos.kholaki
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/by_thepen/

You can also purchase her books through these links:
Musings of a Muslim Chaplain
Mantle of Mercy

Support the show

Musings of a Muslim Chaplain

I never left over the Summer, but I'm back anyway!

An intro to what has conspired this past Summer, in terms of surprise episode releases and new video segment and what's coming up! And if you have any suggestions for guests or how to improve my current segments please feel free to send me a DM on my social medias or email me at: shehla.faizi01@gmail.com

You can also watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a6gxhvZo6vA

And if you haven't already please do follow me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube so you can access my "The Advice is Free" and "The Muslim Perspective" segments (which I usually don't do an audio version of):

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ImAMuslimAndThatsOkayPodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast

Support the show

I'm still on vacation and I don't work on vacation! But sometimes some interviews happen that are timely and the discussion is important.

That was the case with this "Gift of the Gab" with fellow podcaster, Michael Rose.
Listen in as we talk about how he went from the conservative right to more center leaning, including discussions on the recent overturning of Roe Vs. Wade and gun-control in America (or the lack thereof!).

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/ZCXU3yThhCo

You can also listen to Michael's podcast, Master Mic here: https://anchor.fm/michael-rose70

And you can follow him on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/MasterMicPod

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LAST EPISODE OF THE SEASON!

That's right I'll be taking a break for the Summer and be back in August. BUT that doesn't mean I'm gonna leave y'all empty handed!

In this episode of Gift of the Gab, I interview a dear mom-friend, Madeleine Kanai, who was also recently diagnosed and treated for a rare type of blood cancer. We discuss the difficulties in getting initial diagnoses for less well-known cancers and the often prohibitive cost of cancer treatment!

You can also watch this episode on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/kIgrKiOf54A

To help cancer research and treatment please donate generously to cancer research and become a stem cell donor:
MD Anderson Moon Shots Program
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
DKMS.org
Bethematch.org

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In this week's episode of "Gift of the Gab!" I talk to I talk to fellow podcaster, dietitian, and marathon runner, Julianna Coughlin, who also happens to live with the chronic illness, Ankylosing Spondylitis.

We banter a little about the Harry Potter fandom, and delve deep into the everyday struggles that come with living with an invisible illness.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uha41gtbNlQ

You can read more about Ankylosing Spondylitis here: https://spondylitis.org/

You can listen to Julianna's podcasts, "PuffCast" and "Into the Fold" using these links:

PuffCast: https://linktr.ee/Puffcast

Into The Fold: https://linktr.ee/IntoTheFold

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Almost to the end of Ramadan! And here it is the final episode for this month which delves into some of the prayer practices of Muslims during the Holy month.

I hope this series has given y'all a little deeper insight into Ramadan and how it is more than just fasting.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/hYexQgnL9Gw

If you enjoy the content I create please don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on your preferred platform and on YouTube. This helps you to know when new episodes come out and it also helps give my podcast traction and allows other viewers to find my podcast. Thank you!

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In the second part of this year's Ramadan episode I go into some of the practices of charity, and prayer Muslims do in Ramadan as a means of earning greater good deeds. A look at how Ramadan is more than just fasting from fasting from dawn to dusk!

You can also watch this solo episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/2Qcp3yrqwhw

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It's that time of year again! Your friendly, neighborhood Muslims are gonna start fasting again!

Although, I've had Ramadan episodes every year, for two years now, but I don't think I've every talked about WHY we fast. So, this year I'm going to go into some of the reasons behind the fast for Muslims.

This is part one of three episodes that will delve into Ramadan and some of what Muslims do during this sacred month.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/07kG2nYGk30

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I'm back with my yearly "Ask A Muslim" segment where I answer all your questions about being Muslim.

But this year I have with me a fellow-Muslim and guest host, KC! I mean why should I be the only one having fun doing this!

So, join us as we both bring our opinions about being Muslim (and 90-day Fiance !) to the table!

To send in your questions for future "Ask A Muslim", just email me at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com

You can find the article referenced in this episode here: https://www.facinghistory.org/civic-dilemmas/brief-history-veil-islam

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In this season's very first 'Gift of the Gab', I talk to artist and a creator on TikTok, Aicha Lasfar. We talk about her living the alternative, Muslim lifestyle and how she became embroiled in a little bit of controversy through expressing her opinions on Faith and noted religious figures in her TikTok videos.

This episode explores the deep ins and outs of human prejudices and how it often blinds us to what reality is. That, in life, being a "good Muslim" is more than just about appearances, and a fade and septum piercing should not exclude you from that category.

To explore Aicha's art please visit her website and Instagram:
https://www.mooselimworks.ca/
https://www.instagram.com/mooselim.works/

You can also follow her TikTok account here:
https://www.tiktok.com/@canadian.mooselim

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel here:
https://youtu.be/Qi6C-WYwPH0

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When life comes at you in the most unexpected ways, you can either crumble to ashes or pick up your pieces and superglue yourself together. And the most inspiring people then vow to share their superglue with others who are cracked or broken.

That is exactly what Sabriah Bilal did after her spouse ghosted her, three days after she gave birth to their 5th child!

Join me as we go through Sabriah's journey of healing that led her to becoming a published author and a Life Coach. And now she helps other women heal from their trauma!

You can also watch this interview on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/XG9AoEDb9Io

You can get in touch with Sabriah about her Life Coaching services through her website and Instagram:

https://breebreespeaks.com/
https://www.instagram.com/breebreespeaks/

You can also purchase Sabriah Bilal's Book, "Crooked Rib, Golden Soul" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Crooked-Golden-Soul-Sabriah-Bilal-ebook/dp/B09CVCDNYK

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Crooked Rib, Golden Soul

*GIVEAWAY CLOSED*

OMG!!!! I don't know how it happened, but it has been TWO years since I started podcasting! I started inside my walk-in closet with a lavalier mic and even though I have since upgraded to a (slightly) more professional space, I can't help but be grateful to all y'all for sticking with me for so long!

Again I could not thank all my listeners enough for being with me all this time. And I hope I can continue to to entertain and inform. If you have any suggestions for future episodes, or would like to be a guest on my podcast, feel free to email me at: shehla.faizi01@gmail.com .

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The last episode of the year! Another year with the pandemic (albeit we did get the vaccine) and it still seems like people have learned very little from it! And, dangit, I'm mad as heck! And I will be ranting about it!

But apart from my rant, I also need your help. I will be taking a short break in January, but I will be back in February 2022 with a giveaway! That's right! It's been almost two years since I started my podcast and I want to celebrate that! Although, I'm not sure what should I giveaway. So, if you have suggestions send me those at: shehla.faizi01@gmail.com

Also, I'll be doing my "Ask A Muslim" segment next year too, so send me questions for those too!

If you prefer watching my solo episodes (closed captioning available) you can do so on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/KwrZnG_S4Qw

Happy New Year to everyone, and stay safe y'all.

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I'm back with another solo audio/video episode and this time I continue the theme of diversity of thought but specifically when it relates to being neurodivergent. I very recently found out (with the help of my friends online) that I had ADHD and it answered a whole lot of questions about myself.

Join me as I delve deep into the beautiful mess that is being a person who is neurodivergent with ADHD.

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/qSM_i11_oaU

Please subscribe to my podcast and YouTube Channel to get updates on new episode releases.

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It's been a while since I went solo! And for this episode I did something that I've been wanting to do for a while; make it a video episode too!

So, now you want listen and watch this episode where I show off my mug collection and how it got me thinking about how we communicate our opinions with other people.

So, go ahead, grab your very own mug, with your favorite beverage (I personally love tea!) and relax with this solo audio AND video episode!

You can watch this episode on my YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/QZLuRIbFUCI

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In this episode of GOG I have with me therapists in training, Sobia Saleem and Sadie Hernandez and we talk about the mental health risks faced by members of the Queer. We discuss the stigma that Queer youth face, especially if they are from Faith-based backgrounds, and for the need for empathy and inclusion for Queer youth.

You can also Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/Je9qyJz6gQs

Sadie and Sobia are therapists in training and you can find them on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/sadieandsobiatherapy/

They also provide counseling services (open to everyone, including members of the LGBTQ+ community) at the LGBTQ Center Orange County. To find out more about the OC LGBTQ center follow the links below:

https://www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/
https://www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/services/therapy/
https://www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/services/youth-programs-2/

If you are Queer and are from a Faith-based background the following document provides resources for support:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rpzagD6lKXF17DvhwHYzAOFes8V8V7t5iUNeH4IMQGY/edit?usp=sharing

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This year, I decided to do a re-telling of one of my favorite spooky stories from my childhood, "Wolf Castle", a Eastern European folk tale that I saw an animated short of as a kid.
So, sit back and enjoy this spooky tale of haunted statues, curses and stolen children!

I unfortunately, could not find the animated short anywhere on the internet or the folk tale it was based on, but if after listening to this episode, if you can recognize the story and know a source for it, do send it to me at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com and I can share with all my listeners!

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This week I talk to the young, Muslim illustrator Aaliya Jaleel and how she took her talent of visual story-telling and used it to increase POC and Muslim representation in books and popular media!

Some of Aaliya's hallmark work includes working for the Disney Junior show "Mira, Royal Detective" and illustrating books with Muslim and POC protagonists such as, "This Is Why We Pray", "The Ramadan Gift", "Muslim Girls Rise" and "Under My Hijab", and more!

You can see Aaliya's work on her website at: https://www.aaliyamj.com/
And you can follow her on Twitter and Instagram with the handle @aaliyamj

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October is "Domestic Violence Awareness" month and I talk to the powerhouse that is Khalidah Bilal, a domestic abuse survivor and who now helps other domestic abuse victims through Huma-Faith and her DAAWN (Domestic Abuse Against Women Nullified) initiative.

This is a raw conversation about some of her own experience with domestic abuse and why it is so hard for victims to escape their circumstances. But that doesn't mean that there isn't hope.

If you or someone you know is in a domestic abuse situation please call the domestic violence hotline at: 1-800-799-SAFE

To donate to help Huma-Faith and DAAWN help victims of domestic abuse please donate to: https://www.humafaith.org/home.html

You can also find more valuable domestic violence resources you can visit the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) website at: www.ncadv.org

You can also watch this episode on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/KbIbgp0L-jM

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In this week's 'Gift of the Gab!', I invite the host of the podcast, "The C Word" and cancer survivor, Helen King.
I talk to Helen about the impact of cancer on not just people's bodies but their personal lives as well.
We delve deep into the raw parts of how cancer is such a deeply taboo subject for so many, and how can we look beyond our own fears of the disease to help those impacted by it.

To watch this interview with close captioning on the "I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!)" YouTube Channel, click this link: https://youtu.be/_9H7QE9CiRI

You can hear more about Helen's personal cancer journey on her podcast, "The C Word" on most major platforms.
You can also follow her on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thecword_radio/
and on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/The-C-Word-Radio-105425417907685

Please hit the 'follow' button if you like what you hear on my podcast to get updates on the newest episodes!
You can also follow "I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!) on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/
And on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast

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This week I bring you a brand new segment called "Gift of the Gab!".
I've noticed that a lot of times people are not sure how to have good, solid, eye-opening conversations with other people. With this segment I hope to encourage thought provoking discussions and bring to light unique insights through my guests!

And what better first guests than fellow podcasters! This week I'll be having my conversation with co-hosts of the podcast, Mommying While Muslim, Uzma Jafri and Zaiba Hasan!

So join me as I get to the nitty-gritty of what makes them who they are and why are they so dedicated to forging change through their podcast.

You can listen to Mommying While Muslim on all major podcast and also on their website www.mommyingwhilemuslim.com
You can also follow them on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/MommyingWhileMuslim
And on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mommyingwhilemuslimpodcast/

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This week I interview Tania Ahmed, an art and craft video content creator on her journey to how she got to where she is now and how that shattered all expectations, including her own!

Tania Ahmed creates online arts and crafts videos (and teaches her craft live as well!), you can find her amazing work on:
https://taniaahmedcreative.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniaahmed/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/taniaahmedcreative
Her Podcast: www.thecraftermath.com

Join us as we reminisce (and laugh!) about our past together and unravel her amazing journey to becoming one of the very few Muslim Queens of craft!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/UpX3bZ_YRbA

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I'm BAAAACK! And it feels so good! I'm bringing for you this season more episodes, more interviews and a brand new segment! You can hear all about it in this episodes (and my unbridled rant about the pandemic! :D)

I've also updated the podcast website, got it a domain (finally!) which you can check out at www.imamuslimpodcast.com. I'll also be adding a surprise there so be on the lookout for that!

I've also updated the Instagram handle for the podcast (it's no longer my personal account :D) so you can check that out too at https://www.instagram.com/imamuslimpodcast/ and follow me for updates and new episodes

And if you are inclined to do so I'd really appreciate if you could support my podcast by donating at https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US

Thank you all for being with me all this time! Y'all are the best!

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Y'all the best for staying with me all this time, BUT it's Summer and children are at home and there is literally no way I will have any shred of sanity throughout these two months :D So, Imma take a short Summer vacation and be back in August!

I'll be back with more segments, interviews and solo episodes. AND if you want to suggest anything you'd like to hear about, someone you'd like me to interview just email me at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com or send me a message on my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast (also "Like" my page to get the latest updates on episodes!).
And if you haven't heard any of my older episodes you can do so here: https://sfaizi.wixsite.com/iamato/podcast as well as all major podcast platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Unlimited, and many more!

You can also view videos of interviews on my YouTube Channel (please "Like" and "Subscribe" here too for updates!): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf6SWb1o1tZTHNd09HaUEfg/featured

See you guys on the flip side of Summer!

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Ramadan 2021, this year brought with it many new experiences including new Muslim neighbors, tons of iftar and my feeble attempts at holding a kids' party!

Listen to this week's episode for the unexpected madness that was Ramadan 2021! And if you have any questions or suggestions for future episodes send them my way via email at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com or you can send me a message on my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast.

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Being born into a Muslim family is something that even a lot of Muslims see as a default and a lot of times take for granted as well. But what is the journey of someone who converts to the Faith?
Imam Tom Facchine shares his incredible journey of how a young man from an Italian American family, from a small town in New Jersey converted to Islam, and how he ended up becoming the Imam (religious leader) of The Muslim Community Association of Mohawk Valley, New York!

You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (closed captioning available) at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf6SWb1o1tZTHNd09HaUEfg

Note: Strong political and religious opinions will be expressed by my guest. Viewer and listener discretion is advised.

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Guess who's fasting (again!)?
Yup, it's that time of year for Muslims, and for me it might not be a big deal to fast in Ramadan since I've been doing it for some time now. BUT this year I might just have teeny tiny person TRY and join me (Dun! Dun! Duuun!!).

So, join me as I give a short overview of this year's Ramadan in our new house, with our Muslim neighbors and how it's those little things that make Ramadan extra special!

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Mental health is an integral topic for any community. In the Muslim community until now, the topic has been largely taboo.

This week I have the great pleasure of interviewing Taimur Kouser, Founder and Director of *Nafs.

Nafs is an organization that hopes to elevate the voices of young Muslims struggling with the very unique mental health issues they face growing up in the U.S. Me and Taimur delve into some of those issues and how having a platform like Nafs* can help erase some of the stigma around openly discussing mental health issues.

You can find out more about Nafs by visiting their website at https://www.nafscentral.com/ and you can also following them on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/nafs_central/

You can also view this episode on YouTube (close captioning available) at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf6SWb1o1tZTHNd09HaUEfg

Please don't forget to hit "follow" and "subscribe" to my podcast and YouTube channel! Thank you!

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At the end of part one of my "Ask a Muslim!" segment, I ran out of time to answer all the questions sent to me. So, here they are in part two! Thank you to everyone who sent me these questions and if you as a listener have any more questions to ask THIS Muslim, feel free to send me your questions at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com or you could send me a personal message on the "I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!)" Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast

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It's back! Last year's popular segment, where you ask me, your resident Muslim, any and every question you may have about Islam and being Muslim!

Now, I'm not a scholar of Islam but that doesn't mean I can't give you the everyday insights about being Muslim.

This episode is part one of two episodes, if you have any questions you would like me to answer in part two, please send them to me at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com . And you can also message me the questions on Facebook via the "I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!) page at: https://www.facebook.com/iamatopodcast

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This week on "I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!)", I continue with my "The Whole Muslim" interview segment. My guests are an inter-racial, Muslim couple who go against social norms not just in their marriage but in their decision to adopt!

Hear their remarkable story about love, life and the joys of parenthood in the most unconventional way!

You can also WATCH this episode on my YouTube channel here (please hit 'Like' and 'Subscribe' to stay updated on future videos!): https://youtu.be/wtvA2N2N5i0

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I'm here! You're here! OMG!! Y'all are the best for sticking with me through this year. This episode is my thank you to all of you who have been there for me for this past year AND my step towards a new year!

I'm here with all new episodes including doing another "Ask A Muslim" segment (send me your questions about Muslims and Islam at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com !), more "The Whole Muslim" interviews and of course more shenanigans from just me! ;D

So I hope you stay with me this year too and let me entertain you!!!

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Even if I can't be with her, I'm still gonna rant and rave with my friend Ami about what a dumpster fire the year 2020 has been! So join me and Ami, for some venting and some laughs about the year we would all love to forget!

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It's the holiday season but we can't afford to be careless now. The vaccine for COVID 19 is just beyond the horizon, we just have to be careful for a little while longer!

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In this special interview segment I call, "The Whole Muslim", I interview professional photographer, published author and Retinoblastoma cancer survivor, Zaakirah Muhammad. We talk about how despite losing her right eye and hearing in both ears because of her cancer, she has always lived her best life and established herself as a African American Muslim woman in the field of photography and continues to branch out professionally. You can find Zaakirah on social media on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/illuminousone/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/illuminousone/). Her professional and podcast website is: http://zaakirahnayyar.com/

You can also watch this interview on YouTube (close captioning available) by clicking on this link: https://youtu.be/QpEXjjTIP14

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

A Cliffhanger of an election! But with the victory of President Elect, Joe Biden and the first female Vice President in American history, Kamala Harris, at least SOMETHING good came from 2020!

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Ghost, Ghouls and Jinns! Oh, My! I love me a good ghost story and in today's episode I share a few I've heard when I was growing up in Pakistan. But remember, no ghostly tale could be scarier than having actual demons in power! So come, November 3rd, go out and VOTE!

The following link has the full story to the legend of the Fairy at Lake Saiful- Muluk: https://dailytimes-com-pk.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/dailytimes.com.pk/87662/saif-ul-malook-the-lake-of-fairies/amp/?usqp=mq331AQFKAGwASA%3D&amp_js_v=0.1#aoh=16036708089118&csi=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fdailytimes.com.pk%2F87662%2Fsaif-ul-malook-the-lake-of-fairies%2F

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In the last episode of "Some Of The Most Interesting Women I Know" I interview a longtime mom-friend and Technical Consultant for a Federal firm, Tina Cooke! And we talk about everything from raising three daughters to being one of the very few women in the I.T. field and she doles out some great advice for both!

Tina also had a non-sleeper like me and she had great success with sleep consultation through weesleep.ca, for any of my listeners who may have a non-sleeper. Because the struggle is REAL!

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In this week's interview, I introduce you all to a woman close to my nerdy heart, Marria Khan. She and I take a trip down memory lane and we discuss everything from growing up and finding it hard to find illustration mentors and Anime'! To how now she has become a mentor for other budding illustrators and digital artists in Pakistan!

You can check out Marria's work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marri.art/ , Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marriakhan.art and Behance: https://www.behance.net/marria

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

What do you get when you put a Muslim and a Buddhist on a podcast? A whole lot of conversation about why we need to stop relying on "Karma"!

This week I interview my dear friend, Natalie Quli, an academic scholar on Buddhism (who is also a practicing Buddhist), and we had a whopping good time getting into the nitty-gritty about the Faith and why everybody just needs to stop stealing terms from it!

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This week I interview Happiness Co. counselor, Sabaa Afzal! I was taken by surprise the first I had encountered her on Instagram, because this old goat came from a generation that didn't believe in "dealing with feelings"!

Join me as I delve deeper into the wonderful work Sabaa does for individuals, families and couples from all walks of life!

To get in touch with Sabaa, you can reach out to her on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/happiness.co.counseling/?hl=en), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HappinessCoCounseling) or via her website (happinesscobysabaa.com)

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Welcome to the very first interview episode of "Some Of The Most Interesting Women I Know!", where I feature some of the most remarkable I have the pleasure of knowing.This week it is Becky Kallen! This gorgeous lady is the original 'Becky with the good hair!' and I am pretty sure I would have lost my sanity long ago if it wasn't for her!Apart from saving the sanity of mums like me (with INCREDIBLY fussy babies!), Becky also does amazing work in her local public school as a part of the non-profit organization, Communities in Schools (https://www.communitiesinschools.org/ and https://www.ciswayneco.org/ for Wayne County schools, Indiana).So, sit back and enjoy our candid conversation about how we met, how our babies drove us to the brink and 10 years later, they still can't sleep through the night!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Wooooooooo! What a Ride! After season 1, you guys are still with me for season 2! I'm so humbled and grateful!

In Season 2 I'll have a whole segment of interviews with some of the wonderful women in my life, and as always the wonderful banter of this crazy, Muslim lady to help brighten up your day!

Hope you enjoy the new season and stay safe during the pandemic!

P.S. You need a cute mask to stay safe? I gotta friend who makes a boat load of them! Go visit her shop One Plus Six !! (You can copy paste this in your browser, in case the link doesn't work: https://www.etsy.com/shop/oneplussix?fbclid=IwAR3Xk3djJeScc6UdTyPumSZ5VSeDRgxtSujLCGD8ZJzuOl1uaVKXZ9Sfb9U)

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Ramadan comes to a close and so does the very first season of "I'm A Muslim (And That's Okay!)". Come join me in some Eid nostalgia and I hope to see you again at the end of Summer, when I'll be launching season TWO of my podcast! Don't forget to like us on Facebook (Facebook.com/pg/iamatopodcast) so you can updates for the new season! See you then!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

It's the last 10 days of Ramadan and we're really trying to pray as much as we can, but the distractions are a little too cute! :D--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

What does the lockdown and Ramadan have in common? It gives us time to re-evaluate our lives.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

This week's episode I'm delving a little bit into Pakistani Muslims' unhealthy obsession with food! Especially the three staples Pakoray, Chaat and Samosay! And if you wanna try these out with us here are some links to their recipes! Pakoray: https://www.mirchitales.com/onion-pakora-pyaz-pakora-onion-fritters/ Chaat: https://www.mirchitales.com/chana-chaat-or-chole-chaat/ Chicken Samosay: https://youtu.be/0ENrbpyYp0E So, come and indulge with us this Ramadan!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Ramadan is here and Muslims all over the world will be fasting from dawn to dusk for a month! But don't worry, we still binge eat at night! ;D--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Here it is! More answers from the Muslim round the corner! For now this concludes my special podcast segment. But if you have any more questions you always wanted to #askaMuslim you can send them to me at shehla.faizi01@gmail.com , and I may just do another special episode to answer all your questions!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

I had all my friends gather around the Facebook campfire and ask me all sorts of questions! In this two part special segment I call, "Ask a Muslim!", I'll attempt to answer as best as I can.

DISCLAIMER I'm NOT a Islamic authority on ANYTHING (I know it's sad '-_-), so most of my answers are based on my opinions and experiences, interspersed with whatever knowledge I have of Islam.

Although, question number 5 in this episode forced me to dig deep to into Islamic articles to find a more educated answer than the one I would have been able to provide. My friend Maria had asked how I felt about the verses of the Quran that spoke about causing harm to non-believers. I gave my opinion in the episode, but below is the link to my reference page in my newly created website (still under construction) for my podcast:

https://sfaizi.wixsite.com/iamato/blog

The screenshots in this link, and the Yaqeen Institute article they are taken from (also linked in this page, but it is rather long), clearly define the premise of the verses that Maria was asking about.

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Do everything you can to help all the wonderful medical professionals on the front lines of the COVID-19 Pandemic. But don't forget the everyday people affected by it too!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Extroverts and Muslims don't do social isolation! Help!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Yeah, the kids are home and they are running amok! I don't care how fancy your daily charts are they won't work on my kids. So, I'm doing the next best thing: teaching them card games!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Part 2 about me and my families story (Spoiler: There is an elaborate wedding involved!)--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

It's hard being stuck indoors but don't be THAT jerk that spreads the virus.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

I get told a lot that my "English is real good!"... I dunno what to say to that most of the time, but in this episode you'll find out a little about my weird and wonderful past. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

The Primaries came. I voted and became emotional about it! Because people need to learn to disagree and still be nice!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

It's been a loong week and Imma be sitting in a corner stuffing my face with fries, if anyone needs me!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

It's a Monday! This episode was supposed to go out Friday! I blame my cat!😄--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)

Welcome to the world of this cat loving, crazy little Muslim lady, who just wants to show you that we as Muslims are everyday people, with a slightly unhealthy obsession with food!😂--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/shehla-faizi/supportSupport the show (https://paypal.me/creativecookiejar?locale.x=en_US)