Shows
A Day In Her LifeEpisode 138: A Day In Her Life with Layla Shaikley - Founder and Mom of ThreeTell us what you think!!!A Day In Her Life with Layla Shaikley – Efficient, Full, Emotionally Regulated Days as a Founder and Mom of ThreeWhat does it look like to build a venture-backed tech company, raise three young kids, recover from a major injury, and stay emotionally steady through it all?In this episode of A Day In Her Life, Ellie sits down with Layla Shaikley, co-founder of Wise Systems, writer, and mom of three (ages 3, 5, and 7). Layla shares how predictability, emotional regulation, and ruthless prioritization are what ma...
2026-02-031h 09
Slay The GatekeeperUn-Gatekeeping the Interview Process with Layla ShaikleyLaila Shaikley makes her own luck, not with influence or money or connections, but with sheer persistence. And she’s here today to share how that persistence and willingness to put herself on cringe mountain has opened up one opportunity for another for her – and why it’ll do the same for you.
If you’ve ever felt the twinge of imposter syndrome or talked yourself out of opportunities because you felt “unqualified,” you need this conversation.
What’s in this episode:
[00:00] Intro
[02:00] Why building your personal brand is a chance for you to shar...
2024-07-1648 min
Muslims Doing ThingsZainab Johnson is a comedian, writer, and actressZainab Johnson (@zainabjohnson) is a comedian, writer, and actress. Zainab Johnson is a comedian, writer, and actress. Zainab’s comedy is based on her unique point-of-view, which as one of thirteen siblings in a black Muslim family in Harlem. After getting a degree in Math and Education and taking a job as a teacher, Zainab quickly learned she had a different calling. And once she started to pursue the calling — she doubled down and rose the ranks quickly.You may have seen Zainab on the Amazon...
2024-01-0356 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSidra Trajcevska founded Jasmine + MarigoldSidra Trajcevska founded Jasmine + Marigold (@jasmineandmarigold) on the heels of a successful corporate career. Sidra found herself on the tough end of the celebration equation as mom to a half-Macedonian/half-Pakistani child. When Sidra realized that there weren’t onesies available to celebrate Eid, she created her own. Between that moment and today, Sidra figured out how to build, scale, and automate a garment business for children. She openly talks about the nuts and bolts behind her business, and the savvy she has accrued. Follow Sidra athttps://www.insta...
2023-05-2852 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSarah Ahmed is a psychotherapistSarah Ahmed is a psychotherapist Sarah Ahmed’s LinkedIn refers to her as an “experienced Clinical Social Worker with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry.” But Sarah, on social media, is the POC therapist. (@the.poc.therapist). Sarah’s social media presence addresses a variety of mental health related topics in an accessible way. Separately, she went from working in a large scale health system, to starting her own private practice, to employing other practitioners, to most recently enabling Canada-wide mental health services through a technology platform, Leena (@h...
2023-05-2158 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAfshan Nasseri started a digital marketing agencyWhen Afshan Nasseri (@lifesforliving) did not get the corporate job she thought she should get amidst a pandemic, as a fresh-COVID-grad of McGill University. So, Afshan just started her own agency (yes — just like that! The story is amazing). Aam Creative (@aamcreative) is a team is made of women of color from around the world who focus on social media strategy, storytelling, brand strategy, and cultural consulting. Aam has worked with over 41 companies. The website highlights 17 women working towards the agency’s goals. I love convos with self starters, so I really enjoy...
2023-05-0755 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSabrina Siddiqui is a White House correspondentSabrina Siddiqui (@sabrinasiddiqui) knew she wanted to be a journalist as a Pakistani-American teenager living in Italy, but did not realize her choices would land her a coveted position as a White House correspondent for The Wall Street Journal. Sabrina covers the Biden presidency right now. Listen to Sabrina and I talk about her journey to political reporting and what a day in the life is like as a White House correspondent. Spoiler: it may include an anecdote about a recent top secret trip on Air Force One with the President. Get t...
2023-03-1956 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAli Baluch is a TV producerAli Baluch (@baluchx) started his career in video on YouTube — by joining FouseyTube in its early days. Ali worked with Yousef to take the channel from 500k to 10m (and over 1.5b views), creating one of the early YouTube phenomenons (which I learned was..stunted!). Ali’s journey in production and cinematography is a journey that spans through household names like Nickelodeon, HBO Max, and MTV. And outside of those names, Ali is behind a few podcasts (The Apartment and the Fahim Anwar Dance Hour) where he chats with some of the most popular names in the industry. What is A...
2023-03-131h 10
Muslims Doing ThingsAmeena Soliman is an NFL pro scoutAmeena Soliman (@meen_mill) is a pro scout for the Philadelphia Eagles, where she also serves as Director of Personnel Operations. In this episode, Ameena breaks down her journey to scoutdom, which reveals a breakneck speed through the ranks at the NFL. Ameena provides a tactical approach to how to get into sport while revealing a razor sharp intelligence and hyperfocused work ethic. It goes without much assumption that Ameena is the first Muslim woman in her role. And she is believed to be the first female scout, period, for the Eagles. For context, the first female scout for...
2023-03-0545 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAmna Nawaz is co-anchor of PBS NewsHourAmna Nawaz (@amnaonpbs) is an American broadcast journalist and a co-anchor of the PBS NewsHour alongside Geoff Bennett. Before joining PBS in April 2018, Nawaz was an anchor and correspondent at ABC News and NBC News. And before that, a foreign correspondent. Amna dives into her path to the co-anchor seat, including time in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and how her husband has played a key role in their co-parenting journey. Amna’s accolades include an Emmy Award and a Society for Features Journalism award. Follow Amna atFollow Amna on IGFollow Amna on Twitter...
2023-02-2656 min
Muslims Doing ThingsZaria Parvez is the Duolingo owlIf you’re on TikTok, you have seen the hysterical (and sometimes unhinged) Duolingo posts. And if you were interested in learning a language (like my husband was, actually), you probably converted into a Duolingo user because of the prevalence of Duo the owl on TikTok. I was stunned to find out that all 6m of us Duo stans were actually following a fresh-out-of-college Pakistani American, Zaria Parvez (@photos_zap). In two short years and with a marketing budget of 0 dollars, Zaria built a cult around the language learning app. The Duolingo account has 121.6m likes, including some from a...
2023-02-1946 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAudie Attar built a sports management empireAs an Iraqi-American, Audie Attar’s (@AudieAttar) parents saw athletic talent in him and nurtured it through high school and into college. Audie played football at UCLA before a fight got him kicked out of the school and landed him at Idaho State. The racial undercurrents of the fight, grounded in Islamophobia, did not stop Audie’s team at UCLA from working hard to get him back on their side. Shortly after, Audie made his way back to UCLA before graduating and landing a role as an NFL agent. That was the start of Audie’s sports management journey — and sinc...
2023-02-1254 min
Muslims Doing ThingsManal Aman is the Muslim Martha StewartManal Aman @helloholydays knew who she admired: Martha Stewart. She went to college with the goal of figuring out the business of Martha, and graduated into an editorial job for the DIY queen herself. Within a few short years, Manal figured out how to get her own line into Crate and Barrel to celebrate Ramadan (yes, that advent calendar — the one we all lost it for). Listen to Manal’s journeyShop the collection at HelloHolyDays.comFollow @helloholydays on Instagram--- Send in a vo...
2023-02-0549 min
Muslims Doing ThingsYusra Siddiqui is a fashion editorYusra Siddiqui (@thatgirlyusra) is an Associate Fashion Editor at Who What Wear, and at her core she is a journalist. Yusra talks about what it takes to build a career in fashion journalism, how she got to where she is, and her recent cover stories with Jenna Ortega and Madelyn Cline. Listen to Yusra lay out the power of connection, not giving up, and what her life looks like as a Fashion Editor (sneak peak: she publishes 5-6 pieces a week).Find Yusra on IG @thatgirlyusra and TikTok @thatgirlyusraa--- Send...
2023-01-151h 06
Muslims Doing ThingsAnoosha Syed illustrates and writes children’s booksAnoosha Syed (@foxville_art) is a Pakistani-Canadian freelance illustrator + character designer for animation, based in Toronto. If you have kids, you likely have come across her work (Bilal Cooks Daal and That’s Not My Name are both on Kamila’s bookshelf!).Since graduating, Anoosha has worked as a character designer for preschool series in development working with clients like Disney, Netflix and Nick. After illustrating over 25 books for children, she is now working on several author/illustrator titles — and recently published her her debut book, That’s Not My Name.Anoosha has not only...
2023-01-0844 min
Muslims Doing ThingsEvelyn Alsultany is a scholar of Muslim representation in mediaEvelyn Alsultany (@evelynalsultany)is a leading expert on the history of representations of Arabs and Muslims in U.S. media. Her research, teaching, and lecturing are driven by a commitment to bringing Arab and Muslim Americans into the broader conversation about racial politics in the U.S. In her lectures, she seeks to educate audiences on the history of stereotypical representations of Arabs and Muslims in the US media, its consequences as evident in public opinion and government policies, and alternatives to foster greater human respect and dignity.Listen to Evelyn's journey as we flip between...
2022-12-2556 min
Muslims Doing ThingsEngie Hassan is a celebrity stylistEngie Hassan (@engiestyle) went into fashion without a clear picture of what that could mean -- and has since built her own styling empire. From celebrities, to royalty, to regular folks, Engie knows how to orchestrate the vision behind how someone is perceived. From an internship at Vogue, to a full circle moment with Anna Wintour, real-talk with Yeezy when he was trying to find his personal brand in the 2010s, to life as a personal stylist at Bergdorf, listen to Engie's story about what it takes to build a styling business in fashion.Follow @engiestyle...
2022-12-1855 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAmanda Saab is a TV famous chefIf you haven't seen @amandasplate on Master Chef, you have probably come across her content on Instagram. Amanda's career started in social work, before a career changing opportunity to be on TV (against 10,000 other hopefuls) landed Amanda a full time culinary career. Listen to Amanda's journey on and off screen, as a famous chef. Follow Amanda on all platforms at https://www.instagram.com/amandasplate/?hl=en (IG) https://amandasplate.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@amandasplate https://twitter.com/AmandasPlate/with...
2022-12-1146 min
Muslims Doing ThingsZain is an actress, above allZain never imagined that her calling would be in acting, but when she knew - she knew. Having accrued 1.2m TikTok fans that flocked her way due to her lighthearted personality and jokes, Zain has painstakingly taught herself how to make it in acting through a love for growth. Listen to Zain talk about her journey with refreshing transparency, and follow Zain below ⬇️Follow Zain on Instagram @zaincomedyFollow Zain on TikTok @zaincomedy--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/laylool/message ...
2022-12-0456 min
Muslims Doing ThingsPious Ali is a public servantPious Ali immigrated from Ghana to New York in 2000 in hopes of purchasing photography equipment for his flourishing photography career back home. Like many other Muslims, the events that took place on September 11th, 2001 changed the course of his life — as he realized he was in his moment to pursue a version of his American dream. Pious moved to Maine in 2002, got involved at the grassroots to earn himself a spot on the Portland Public Schools Board, then City Council — where he was just elected for his second term.Listen to Pious’s journey and follow Pious...
2022-11-2756 min
Muslims Doing ThingsYasamine Durali has built a digital communityFor the first time in the pod's history, we have a guest come back -- a year later! Yasamine Durali is a content creator and my SIL. Last year, she laid out her roadmap to getting TikTok famous, and a year later she shares how far the journey has come, from expanding platforms, to getting managed, to building the confidence needed to take more steps forward.I enjoyed this epi because Yasi is a sis to me, but also because it is a cool opportunity to watch a career arc in real time....
2022-11-1354 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSumbul Siddiqui is mayor of CambridgeSumbul Siddiqui is an American lawyer and politician serving as the 77th mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Siddiqui was elected mayor in 2020 by the Cambridge City Council, after serving in the body for 3 years, becoming the first Muslim mayor in Massachusetts history. Listen to Sumbul's journey.I recorded this epi a few weeks ago, before experimenting with video! It will be my last audio only interview, as I am totally sold on video. Sorry for the video free epi! Follow Sumbul on IGFollow Sumbul on TwitterThe C...
2022-11-0655 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSarah Khan is a travel journalistSarah Khan (@bysarahkhan) is an an award-winning journalist with 18 years of writing and editing experience, most recently as Editor in Chief of Condé Nast Traveller Middle East. Sarah has reported from six continents (almost 7!!) for the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Condé Nast Traveler, Food & Wine, and many others. Earlier in Sarah's career, she worked at Travel + Leisure and Gotham magazines in New York. Listen to Sarah's journey on this week's episode.Check out a portfolio of Sarah's published work at www.bysarahkhan.comFollow Sarah on Instagram---
2022-10-2953 min
Muslims Doing ThingsLorraine Ali is a TV critic and a culture writerLorraine Ali is an Iraqi-American journalist who serves as a culture writer and a TV critic. She is a juror for the George Foster Peabody Awards. Lorraine works for the LA Times, where she was previously a senior writer and music editor. Her work has appeared in publications such as Rolling Stone, the New York Times, GQ, and Newsweek. Listen to Lorraine and I talk about her career as a real-life influencer, as her job entails critiquing the work made for us to culturally consume. And get a tidbit into an unexpected and shared experience that Lorraine and I...
2022-10-1654 min
Muslims Doing ThingsRamy Youssef's show is not eponymous@Ramy Youssef’s show follows a namesake character that is played by him, but the title is not an eponym — to be clear! Ramy has received global acclaim in the form of endless thought pieces, Twitter threads, a Golden Globe (to Ramy himself!), a Peabody Award, and 3 Emmy noms for the show. And Ramy won’t forget to remind you that the accolades are to be spread across the team behind the series. Ramy grew up in New Jersey, and loved to create content with his closest friends. Part way through college, an acting gig got him to Los Angele...
2022-10-0954 min
Muslims Doing ThingsTareq Azim coaches world championsTareq Azim (@Tareq) is a seven-time World Championship attending coach in combat sports, a former Division I linebacker at Fresno State, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, an author, and a philanthropist. He also created the first Afghan Women's Boxing Federation in 2004. Listen to Tareq and I chat about his non-linear path -- from his beginnings as an Afghan refugee, through his very cool career journey (including his work with Marshawn Lynch), to his recent memoir (and roadmap for life), Empower: Conquering the Disease of Fear. Follow Tareq on Instagram @tareq and find his book on Amazon
2022-10-0253 min
Muslims Doing ThingsHuda Idrees is founder and CEO of a tech companyHuda Idrees is CEO and founder of Dot Health -- a simple and secure way to access your health records. Huda was in college (but, as you will hear, over a decade into her career) when she started her startup journey at a company that was later purchased for half a billion dollars. Shortly after, she become CPO at a company that has since blown up with over 1000 employees. While CPO, Huda left her position to start her own company: Dot Health. Listen to Huda's journey and find Huda on Twitter or email Huda at huda@hudaidrees.com.
2022-09-251h 03
Muslims Doing ThingsIbtihaj Muhammad is an Olympic medalistIbtihaj Muhammad found out that she had qualified for the 2016 Olympics through a Google alert — not from her team, Team USA. Ibtihaj’s story is one of resilience, triumph, and tenacity — despite adversity — to the top. Ibtihaj started fencing in high school and dedicated herself to becoming one of the world’s best fencers, culminating in an Olympic medal. She is the first woman in Hijab to represent Team USA at the Olympics. Today, she is an author (read her memoir, Proud, or her children’s book The Proudest Blue), a businesswoman (shop Louella for modest fashion), a Barbie (seriously, c...
2022-01-301h 11
Muslims Doing ThingsSharaf Mowjood produces the newsWhile Sharaf Mowjood had always known that he was interested in film and media, he couldn't have guessed that he would be producing breaking news for the nation. Sharaf attended film school before studying at Columbia's Graduate School of Journalism, where his career started with a bang through a front-page story on the New York Times . After landing at NBC news, Sharaf produced for the Huffpost and is now with CBS Evening News. Listen to Sharaf's journey -- and for those interested in journalism, take him up on his very generous offer to extend feedback and advice (spoiler: he...
2022-01-161h 14
Muslims Doing ThingsYasmin Elhady is a stand-up comedianYasmin Elhady (@yasminelhahahady) was a child when her family came to the United States as asylum seekers. Yasmin was raised in Alabama, where she was always funny -- and very visually Muslim as a hijabi. After excelling through undergrad and grad school, Yasmin did her first stand-up comedy act in 2017 -- making her (quite likely) the only attorney for the US Department of Justice and stand-up comic. Or maybe the only Muslim one. Definitely the only hijabi one. Nonetheless -- Yasmin is whip smart and really freaking funny. When Yasmin isn't a Supervisory Attorney at the US Department of J...
2021-12-2648 min
Muslims Doing ThingsUzma Jalaluddin is a novelistUzma Jalaluddin (@uzmajalaluddin) is the bestselling author of Hana Khan Carries On and Ayesha At Last. During Uzma's day job as an English teacher, Uzma has built a wildly successful (and, unbelievably nascent) career as a novelist. Most recently, Mindy Kaling announced that she would be producing an adaptation of Hana Khan Carries On for Amazon Studios. While the Muslim rom-com is being produced, Uzma is busy working on her third novel. Listen to Uzma's story on today's epi! Follow Uzma on Twitter @uzmawrites Check out Uzma's website--- Send in a v...
2021-12-1943 min
Muslims Doing ThingsZaki Hasan is a film criticZaki Hasan is a film critic -- and a top critic, according to Rotten Tomatoes. Zaki's interest in writing about film started in high school, and he has invested the last quarter-century in the craft. Zaki currently writes for the San Francisco Chronicle and IGN. He is also a professor and talks about film in his own decade-old podcast, The Moviefilm.Where to find Zaki:Twitter, @zakiscornerAnd his own website --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/laylool/message This is a public e...
2021-12-1250 min
Muslims Doing ThingsMona Haydar is a rapperMona Hayder is a rapper...and so much more. She is also a mother, a chaplain, and a poet. When Mona studied English in college, she knew that she was creative and had immersed herself in a community of spoken word poets. Before long, she was performing on stages herself, and her love for poetry and the community that shaped her unlocked a career in music. Mona's debut single, Wrap My Hijab, has 9 million views on YouTube. Billboard named it one of the top 25 feminist anthems of all time.Follow Mona on Instagram @themostmona --- S...
2021-12-0555 min
Muslims Doing ThingsYasamine Durali will teach you how to get TikTok famousThis episode is super special -- because it is 1 year after the pod launched (47 episodes!!!!)! And it's with my sister in law, Yasamine, who pushed me to start Muslims Doing Things in the first place. Yasi is also a different kind of guest, because she is very early in her professional career. She graduated college less than 6 months ago -- and in quarantine decided to take her creative energy and invest it into social media alongside her coursework. She picked up 70k TikTok followers and works full-time in philanthropy. This episode is an homage to beginnings. A celebration for...
2021-11-2842 min
Muslims Doing ThingsMaytha Alhassen is a TV and film writerMaytha Alhassen studied political science and international relations in hopes of living a life in the foreign service — until life took her to academia, and academia took her to Hollywood. Maytha’s current work in Hollywood, as a TV and film writer and executive producer, includes work on Hulu’s Ramy and her own show, Key Terms, available on 11/11. Listen to Maytha's journey on today's epi.To stream Key Terms, follow Maytha on IGReach out to Maytha on her website--- Send in a voic...
2021-11-071h 09
Muslims Doing ThingsAmin Aaser founded Noor KidsWhen Amin Aaser graduated from Harvard, he took a mergers and acquisitions role in corporate venture capital, preparing himself for a life in finance. On the side, for 5 years, he worked on a passion project, creating educational content for Muslim kids in the form of books. Fast-forward nearly a decade, and Amin is the full-time Executive Director at Noor Kids, a character building program for over 25,000 (which hosts 66 children's books). Amin works with his wife on the company, they have a staff of nearly 17 people. Subscribe to Noor Kids Follow Noor Kids on Instagram F...
2021-10-3148 min
Muslims Doing ThingsFatmah Muhammad is the Knafeh QueenWhen a young Fatmah Muhammad's Palestinian family was nearly driven out of town in Missouri, she learned a valuable lesson that would shape her future career: empathy and persistence win. Fatmah's parents of 6 slowly won their neighbors over with hospitality and food. Life took Fatmah's to Southern California at 17, where she married the nominated Knafeh King and had a family. Over a decade later, Fatmah and her eldest daughter Rheyanah co-founded the business, that within 3 years has grown a social media following of over 35,000 and has caught the attention of celebs from the Hadids to DJ Khaled (and his...
2021-10-171h 05
Muslims Doing ThingsShahd Batal is a content creatorWhen Shahd Batal's (@shahdbatal) mom got her a laptop after high school, she imagined it would be the tool to help Shahd get through her PR degree. Shahd used it to make YouTube videos in her spare time, like many of the YouTubers that she grew up to and appreciated. Fast-forward a signed career as a content creator, influencer, model, and so much more, Shahd landed on the receiving side of the PR equation. Listen to Shahd's journey on today's epi. Follow Shahd on IG Follow Shahd on Twitter Subscribe to Shahd's YouTube
2021-10-0351 min
Muslims Doing ThingsNdaa Hassan is a childrens' authorWhen Ndaa Hassan realized that there weren't enough English resources to teach her kids about Ramadan in 2018, she took initiative and published her own childrens' book. 3 years later, Ramadan Around the World is a best-selling childrens' book. Ndaa has since published two more books and built a company, My Arabi Box, around Arabic curriculum (with incredible products, btw) for children. Ndaa's background in marketing and passion for Arabic language development has fast-tracked her ability to be part of a generation of authors creating content for young Muslim children. (Also, teaser, Ndaa is very open about how to self-publish...
2021-09-2649 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAmany Killawi co-founded LaunchgoodWhen Amany Killawi studied social work, she had an image for her future in macro impact. Her life took an unexpected turn when she met her co-founders and started what would be come the largest Muslim crowdfunding platform on the platform. The company bootstrapped the company to where they are today, with $250 million raised, and Amany serves as the COO for 100 people working towards the vision of $1 billion raised on their platform. Listen to Amany’s journey as a the founder of a growth stage company, from the ups of serving the community to the downs of surviving without a...
2021-09-1950 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSalma Hindy is a stand-up comedianSalma Hindy is a first-generation Egyptian-Canadian comedian. Though Salmna studied biomedical engineering (read as: her day job), Salma has had a fast rise to fame as a Muslim comedian. She touches topics in jest that many of us know too well — from the cultural taboos of dating to her relationship with hijab.Follow Salma at: Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/laylool/message This is a public episode. If yo...
2021-09-1247 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDr. Melina Abdullah co-founded BLM LADr. Melina Abdullah (@docmellymel) is a professor and the former chair of the Department of Pan-African Studies at Cal State University, Los Angeles. She is an activist, an organizer, a scholar, and a mother. And Dr. Melina co-founded BLM Los Angeles the night that George Zimmerman was acquitted of the charges of second-degree murder and manslaughter after the murder of Treyvon Martin. Dr. Melina is a recognized expert on race, gender, class, and social movements. She is the author of numerous scholarly articles and book chapters, with subjects ranging from political coalition building to womanist mothering. ...
2021-09-0545 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDeena Shakir is a venture capitalistDeena Shakir always optimized her career for impact — though she could have never imagined that it would land her in venture capital. After a brief career in journalism, Deena served as a Presidential Management Fellow at the U.S. State Department under Secretary Clinton. Listen to Deena’s unconventional (though very logical) journey from D.C., to Google.org, to a partner at LUX Capital where she invests in health tech startups today.Follow Deena on Twitter--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod...
2021-08-2242 min
Muslims Doing ThingsOmar Sayyed is the CEO of Ties.comOmar Sayyed was born in Afghanistan moving to America as a refugee. Growing up, Omar watched his father build a new career in the States while learning a new language and skills. By his young adulthood, Omar had built and exited two companies. Omar was approached by his co-founders at Ties.com to build the company from the ground up with his team. Omar and his team bootstrapped the company to where it is now, where Omar currently serves as the CEO. Follow Omar on TikTok Follow Omar on Instagram Follow Ties.com on I...
2021-08-151h 00
Muslims Doing ThingsDr Nahla is a mental health advocate@imdoctornahla always knew that she wanted to practice medicine, but the path that would get her to mental heath advocacy was not one that she would wish on anyone. After experiencing a traumatic relationship, Nahla spoke out about the experiences that she endured in order to help other women navigate their way through abuse.Nahla’s fearless approach on taboo subjects landed her instant internet visibility — and you can catch her on TikTok and Instagram educating others as she completes her residency training in psychiatry.Follow Nahla on Instagram
2021-08-081h 01
Muslims Doing ThingsKashif Shaikh founded the Pillars FundKashif Shaikh was an English major when he got into philanthropy on a whim, per the advice of his college counselor. When tides were shifting and the first Muslim Congressperson was elected to office in the United States, Kashif started ideating his own philanthropic fund that could serve the Muslim community. From there, alongside his co-founder and team, Pillars Fund was birthed. Pillars Fund amplifies the leadership, narratives, and talents of Muslims in the United States to advance opportunity and justice for all. They have distributed $6m in grants, and recently made waves with their work o...
2021-08-011h 00
Muslims Doing ThingsShahzad Younas founded MuzzShahzad Younas is the founder and CEO of Muzz, the world’s largest faith-based dating app for single Muslims. In 2011, Muzz was a website that Shahzad hacked together. As generic matchmaking apps took off, the Muslim community found itself with seemingly few options online. Shahzad built a solution to that problem through Muzz, and left a promising career in finance to dedicate his life to matchmaking online. Listen to Shahzad's journey through proving out the concept, guerilla marketing at masjids, and building out a community that boasts 5 million active users a day. And, not to mention, 300 marriages a day.
2021-07-251h 01
Muslims Doing ThingsDr. Seun Adigun has competed in the Summer and Winter OlympicsIn 2018, the International Olympic Committee recognized Dr. Seun Adigun as the first African to compete in both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. What isn’t immediately clear in the recognition is the Dr. Seun founded the Nigerian bobsled team, making her team Nigeria’s first-ever Winter Olympians. Nor does it represent that she learned the bobsled after an Olympic-level career in track and field. Today, Dr. Seun works professionally as a chiropractor and biomechanist with the mission of revolutionizing sports medicine. And her academic accomplishments are as impressive and rigorous as her athletic accolades. Listen to my chat with...
2021-07-1855 min
Muslims Doing ThingsRana el Kaliouby built and sold her tech companyGrowing up in Egypt, Dr. Rana el Kaliouby (@ranaelkaliouby) envisioned a life in academia. What the future would hold for Rana was on the cutting edge of research and innovation, though not quite academia. Rana moved from Egypt to the UK for her PhD, where she had the opportunity to connect with her academic idol Roz Picard who ran research at the MIT Media Lab. Rana co-founded (the recently acquired) Affectiva with Roz as a Media Lab spinout in 2009, and is now deputy CEO at Smart Eye. At Affectiva, Rana built a team and company that developed software that...
2021-07-1146 min
Muslims Doing ThingsLena Khan directed a Disney movieLena Khan went to UCLA with an interest in film — but no intention to pursue it as a career. Fast forward to today and her IMDB profile credits her for a Disney+ film, Flora and Ulysses, and her own full-length film, The Tiger Hunter. Lena has become a pillar within the intimate Muslim-American circle in Hollywood, and most recently co-signed Riz Ahmed’s campaign to get more Muslims in film. Listen to Lena’s journey on today’s epi, and how she has navigated her successful career as a director.Keep up with Lena: Follow Lena on IG
2021-07-0448 min
Muslims Doing ThingsRana Abdelhamid is running for CongressRana Abdelhamid is a community organizer and non-profit leader born and raised in Queens, New York. Rana attended New York City public schools and grew up in a working-class community. She is the Founder and Executive Director of a gender justice nonprofit and formerly one of the youngest elected board members of Amnesty International USA. After living in the thick of the COVID-19 crisis in NYC, Rana decided to put a campaign together and was endorsed by Justice Democrats. Listen to Rana’s journey as she builds a campaign with the goal of becoming the Congresswoman of New York’s 12...
2021-06-2748 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAadil Abedi is a professional artistAadil Abedi never thought that he would end up as a fine artist after acting school (or after a stint in the corporate world, no less) — but a year in Bollywood turned his dreams upside down. After a serendipitous series of events, Aadil has built a career as an artist and calligrapher whose work is seen across celebrity garb, magazines, and architecture. Listen to Aadil’s career story, which started in the UK and took him across the globe where he built a team to support the operation behind his work. Check out Aadil’s work on his...
2021-06-2049 min
Muslims Doing ThingsMohamedou Ould Slahi is The MauritanianMohamedou Ould Slahi’s memoir was recently turned into a movie that has since received 6 nominations between the Golden Globes and the BAFTAs. Jodie Foster received a Golden Globe for playing Mohamedou’s lawyer in The Mauritanian. Tahar Rahim played Mohamedou, and other A-listers like Benedict Cumberbatch carry major roles. Mohamedou is a Mauritanian who was detained at Guantánamo Bay detention camp without a single charge for 14 years before being released. Slahi wrote the memoir that inspired the movie, Guantanamo Diaries, while imprisoned. Listen to my chat with Mohamedou and stream The Mauritanian today. Follow Moham...
2021-06-1344 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAqsa Altaf directed American EidAqsa Altaf is a writer and director whose recent film, American Eid, can be streamed on Disney +. Aqsa is the daughter of Pakistani and Sri Lankan migrants. She was raised within a migrant community in Kuwait before finding her way to a community college in Los Angeles. From there, Aqsa worked her way to USC's film school and dedicated her career to storytelling. Aqsa is and was one of six filmmakers selected by Disney for their Launchpad program, which allowed Aqsa to create the short film American Eid. If you are one of the 100m+ subscribers to Disney +, watch...
2021-06-0650 min
Muslims Doing ThingsJohana Bhuiyan is a tech accountability reporterJohana Bhuiyan knew that she wanted to be a reporter -- but didn't know that she'd end up as an investigative reporter. Currently at the Los Angeles Times, Johana covers tech with a focus on accountability. Johana is especially interested in interrogating how tech impacts real people and their civil liberties. Johana is a veteran reporter who is currently is focusing on how tech is used to enhance and enable the surveillance of marginalized groups. Johana's resume includes Recode, BuzzFeed News, and Politico NY. Listen to Johana's journey. Where to find Johana: Twitter
2021-05-3053 min
Muslims Doing ThingsHusain Abdullah was in the NFLHusain Abdullah was born in Los Angeles and raised in Pomona, California as one of 16 in a blended family. Husain and his siblings loved sports. As a child, Husain's eldest brother would give him advice that would inspire him to reach great heights. Husain had a 7-year career on the Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs before retiring from the NFL to pursue his own ventures. Listen to Husain (who, as you will find out in the episode, was also my 4th/5th-grade classmate at the City of Knowledge School) talk about his career journey. Follow H...
2021-05-231h 02
Muslims Doing ThingsRowaida Abdelaziz is a national reporterRowaida Abdelaziz is an award-winning national reporter at the Huffington Post based in NYC, where she spearheads the coverage of Islamophobia and reports on the intersection of Muslim life within politics, culture, and gender. Listen to Rowaida’s journey to becoming a national reporter — how her identity played a role and her hot takes on the tokenization of Muslim women.Also, read the Burkini article discussed in the epi here — When Swimming Becomes a Political Act Find Rowaida on Twitter Follow me, @laylool, on IG or follow t...
2021-05-0947 min
Muslims Doing ThingsRizwan Manji is an award nominated actorIf you are part of Schitt’s Creek’s cult following, you already know that Rizwan Manji — who plays Ray Butani — is a phenomenal actor. Rizwan has been acting since the late 90s and has credits in over 115 shows and movies. From the Wolf of Wall Street, Glee, Hannah Montana, to the New Girl, to the Tiger Hunger, to Arranged, NCIS…and most recently, as Mr. Khan in Mira, Royal Detective’s Eid-centric episode: The Eid Mystery.Listen to Rizwan’s journey as a career actor — and, especially, as a brown actor whose career blossomed around the time of 911...
2021-05-0245 min
Muslims Doing ThingsMisha Euceph is a professional podcast producer and hostWhen Misha Euceph went to college, she envisioned a career in radio journalism. Her career blossomed as podcasts became mainstream and a series of twists and turns got her to KPCC, where she produced her own blockbuster podcast: The Big One: Your Survival Guide. Fast-forward a few years, and Misha has founded and leads her own audio production company, Dustlight, where she has produced work for giants like the Obamas and Bruce Springsteen, Baratunde Thurston — and also, herself. Misha is the host and creator of Tell Them, I Am, a podcast about the small moments that define who we ar...
2021-04-2549 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSundus Abdul Hadi is an artist and a writerSundus Abdul Hadi is an Iraqi visual artist and author. Sundus grew up in Abu Dhabi as a frequent visitor of Iraq before settling in Canada as a ten year old. Listen to how Sundus navigated art school, a career in the arts, and how she has navigated a creative lifestyle. Listen to the story of Sundus’s journey.Plugs: Follow Sundus on Instagram We Are the Medium, the art collective Sundus's website Follow the host on IG, @layloolFollow the show on IG --- Send in a voi...
2021-04-1850 min
Muslims Doing ThingsSalam Al-Marayati founded MPACSalam Al-Marayati was new to the workforce when he founded one of the oldest national American Muslim advocacy and public policy organizations (MPAC). In 1988, it was clear the Muslims were underrepresented at the policy level. Over three decades later, MPAC’s footprint is undeniable, and the organization continues to widen its impact by creating opportunities for Muslims to work in Washington, Hollywood, and within American media. Listen to the story behind MPAC, and the Salam's journey.Reach Salam at salam@mpac.org or donat to MPAC at mpac.org.Follow MPAC on Instagram or...
2021-04-0447 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDr Alaa Murabit is a UN High CommissionerDr Alaa Murabit is the United Nations High-Level Commissioner on Health Employment & Economic Growth, among many (many) other things. Alaa went into medicine thinking that she would go into pediatric surgery before her NGO, the Voice of Libyan Women, presented another path in life. Since graduating from med school, Alaa has become a global health and security expert, with achievements that range from co-writing the UN Sustainable Development Goals to a highly shared TED Talk to one of her current roles as Health Director at the Gates Foundation -- and, as noted, a UN High Level Commissioner. Listen to...
2021-03-2851 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAscia Sahar is a content creatorWhen Ascia Sahar was 25, she pitched herself to ABC — and was on the road to her dream job as an anchor. From there, she worked at United States Institute for Peace before taking time off of work to raise her children. But her love for writing and vintage meant that she combined her thoughtful narratives with beautiful content, and Instagram noticed. #Wordsbyascia became an omnipresent hashtag.Find Ascia on Instagram, or follow her on Clubhouse at iamascia.Follow the host on Instagram and follow the podcast on Instagram. ---
2021-03-2146 min
Muslims Doing ThingsKhalida Brohi has dedicated her life to ending honor killingsKhalida Brohi was a teenager when she learned that her cousin Khadija was killed in the name of honor, by Khadija’s own father's brother. Khalida dropped out of medical school and dedicated her life to ending honor killings. She has since founded Sughar Foundation, with the mission of redefining honor through social enterprise. She also founded the insanely Instagrammable Chai Spot in Sedona + NYC. And, Khalida authored a memoir titled I Should Have Honor. Listen to my chat with Khalida! Find Khalida on Instagram Follow The Chai Spot on Instagram ...
2021-03-1457 min
Muslims Doing ThingsMarwa Atik co-founded Vela ScarvesMarwa (@marwaatik) was 18 when she started to create a new hijab experience, over 12 years ago. Before that for many of us, hijab procurement was a mishmash of H+M or Forever21 neck scarves and masjid basement bazaar finds. But when she started Vela with her sister Tasneem, they focused on color, quality, and even hijab weight for the most comfortable and chic feel. The colors are forecasted and custom made each season (and, imho, unmatched). Vela perfected their classic modal -- and since has unveiled chiffon and jersey fabrics. Listen to Marwa's journey co-founding Vela on today's pod.
2021-03-0742 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDr Karim Shaikley is my dad (and the wisest man alive)A few days ago, my dad’s brother Sami died to COVID -- he was one of my dad’s closest friends. My father is the only member of his immediate family to have left Iraq. Only in recent years, with the accessibility of video chatting and reliable wireless networks, he incorporated a new routine to his life: regular video calls with his big brother and other siblings. Before that, due to a crumbling infrastructure, phone calls to Baghdad were limited in duration. I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately — how beautiful it must have been to have tool...
2021-02-2844 min
Muslims Doing ThingsHuda Al-Marashi wrote a memoir about her marriageHuda Al-Marashi wrote her memoir while raising three children. Over a 15 year journey as a stay at home mom throughout her husband's demanding medical education and training, Huda wrote (a lot), figured out the publishing industry, and sold her first book, First Comes Marriage: My Not-So-Typical American Love Story. Huda's memoir is a tale of the all-too-familiar (but very tight lipped) balance of traditional Iraqi cultural values against American romantic fantasies that many children of Muslim immigrants face in the United States. It's witty, amusing, and incredibly honest -- as Huda narrates her adolescence and young a...
2021-02-211h 00
Muslims Doing ThingsAlex Fox is Clubhouse famousAt this point, you’ve probably heard of Clubhouse. The audio based social network has brought together communities at a unique time in history, when we are all stuck at home. On Clubhouse, realtime panels happen throughout the day in different clubs, which are groups around a common interest. And if you’re on Clubhouse and especially if you’re Muslim, you have probably seen Alex Fox around. Alex’s nascent career in tech has earned her a role in Warby Parker’s product organization — and offline, she has a clothing line with the mission of social justice. But, most recentl...
2021-02-1442 min
Chaii Lab36 | Muslims Doing Things ft Layla ShaikleyAs Muslim Women, our identities often speak for us and we are left to constantly defend what our identity is and isn’t. What does taking back that narrative look like and what does being unapologetically yourself actually mean? Grab your cuppa and join the conversation in episode 36 where we speak with our inspiring guest, Layla Shaikley, who is a multi-hyphenated force to be reckoned with. A co-founder of a tech start-up that has raised over a million dollars, an architect, podcast host, content creator, and a mom, Layla is an example of showcasing your unique identity unapologetically an...
2021-02-0746 min
Muslims Doing ThingsReza Aslan always knew he'd be a writerReza Aslan always knew he would be a writer -- though he may not have always known he would be the author of a New York Times #1 bestseller, a TV host, producer, a scholar, and an Emmy nominee. Reza straddles a very unique intersection, as a scholar of religion with a robust career in entertainment. Listen to my chat with Reza on how he got to that intersection -- and keep an eye out for his sitcom (made with the creator of acclaimed comedy Two and a Half Men), the United States of Al, set to premiere on CBS...
2021-02-0737 min
Muslims Doing ThingsAysha Harun's YouTube career started when she was 15Aysha Harun (@ayshaharun) is a beauty and lifestyle content creator whose journey began at 15 with her eponymous YouTube channel. Aysha filled a gap in the Black, women of color, hijabi, and Muslim spaces -- all of which were underserved at the time. Nearly 500k YouTube subscribes and 260k Instagram follows later, Aysha’s content has attracted a community that seeks to keep up with her and emulate her lifestyle. Listen to Aysha chat about her journey, the business behind influence, and the changing tide that has shifted towards inclusivity in social media.Kee...
2021-01-3143 min
Muslims Doing ThingsTahereh Mafi has published 12 books in 10 yearsAuthor Tahereh Mafi (@tahereh) is an author and a force in the young adult world. Tahereh's first published work, Shatter Me, has been reviewed over 300,000 times on Goodreads. She is no stranger to the New York Times Best Selling Authors list and she is a National Book Award nominee. Recently, Tahereh's fictional novel (peppered with non-fictional anecdotes from her own life) about a hijabi teenager's coming of age was picked up for production on the big screen. Tahereh's newest novel, An Emotion of Great Delight, is set to come out later this year. F...
2021-01-2451 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDr Reshmaan Hussam teaches Harvard Business School students about social justice (and economics)Dr. Reshmaan Hussam went to MIT for undergrad and grad school to study economics. As a developmental economist, she found herself as Harvard Business School’s first (a pretty confident assumption) hijabi professor. TL;DR -- her goal is to ensure some of the world's future business leaders are well versed in some of the world's greatest injustices. And other stuff. She sits at the intersection of development, behavioral, and health economics.Listen to Reshma talk about her journey, and how she found herself writing case studies for business school students about Rohingya.
2021-01-1740 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDr Sahar Shafi turned college failure into a career as an oral surgeonSahar is a periodontist, and she didn't let a bad GPA get in the way of bright career. Listen to Sahar's journey as a student athlete, a surgeon, an influencer -- and how mentorship shaped her life. Plugs:Follow Sahar on Instagram About the host + the pod:Follow the host (@laylool) on Instagram Follow Muslims Doing Things on Instagram--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lay...
2021-01-1048 min
Muslims Doing ThingsLayla Shaikley is...well...meY'all have been asking for a solo epi and I locked myself in a room and gabbed about myself. In honor of the pod's 1 month anni and your incredible support, I introduce myself, my career, how I met my co-founders at Wise Systems, and some of my favorite hacks. Some quick mentions: How to start a podcast and a go-to keyboard (Mac or PC) and a go-to mouse. Shoutout + sponsor from the episode:Follow MyArabiBox on Instagram or check out their site. About me...
2021-01-1030 min
Muslims Doing ThingsMalika Bilal is an Emmy nominated journalistMalika Bilal is an American broadcast journalist. You may have seen Malika on The Stream, an Al-Jazeera English production which she co-hosted and digitally produced for upwards of a decade before receiving an Emmy nod. Malika is now the host of Al-Jazeera English's podcast, The Take. Learn how Malika carved her path as a hijabi, a Black woman, and a Muslim in broadcast media. Keep up with Malika:Follow Malika on InstagramFollow Malika on TwitterFollow Malika on FacebookSubscribe to Malika's podcast, T...
2021-01-0342 min
Muslims Doing ThingsIrene Sarah is an Influencer with a capital IIrene Sarah (@IreneSarah) has turned her lifestyle into a business through representing brands. She has 500,000 Instagram followers and 275,000 YouTube followers, and has been in the social media industry before it was an Industry (capital I). Learn about Irene's journey. Follow Irene on Instagram About the host + the pod: Follow the host (@laylool) on Instagram Follow Muslims Doing Things on InstagramViews are my own --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com...
2020-12-2733 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDr Aaliya Yaqub builds healthcare startupsDr Aaliya Yaqub is a board certified physician, skincare guru, mom, and startup medical co-founder. She is working on her second company, Simple Health Kit, after serving as Forward's medical co-founder. Aaliya has an addictive Instagram, where she shares her favorite products (hint: she does drugstore face wash), articles, life hacks, with motivational monologues sprinkled throughout. You can find Aaliya on: Aaliya's Instagram Aaliya's TikTokAbout the host + the pod: Follow Layla on Instagram Follow Muslims Doing Th...
2020-12-2036 min
Muslims Doing ThingsDr Marzyeh Ghassemi is not your average MIT professorDr. Marzyeh Ghassemi will soon be part of MIT’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and its Institute for Medical Engineering and Science faculty. And she is quick to call out the lack of representation in the data we collect to build products and services across industries. Including for women, who are not a minority -- but an often ignored majority. Currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto in Computer Science and Medicine and a Vector Institute faculty member holding a Canadian CIFAR AI Chair and Canada Research Chair, Marzyeh has no shortage of accolades or d...
2020-12-2036 min
Supply Chain RevolutionExploring AI in Logistics and Last Mile Delivery, Innovation in Customer Experience, and A Rebel's Story of Normalizing Hijabi for Women in Stem w/ Layla Shaikley of Wise Systems (SAP.iO)This is a story that is unique and one that needs to be evangelized. Layla Shaikley, co-founder of a tech start-up that has seen explosive growth in logistics tech and AI-driven optimization within last mile stumbled into supply chain. She actually has a background in architecture and design. As an Iraqi woman, she wanted to make mobility safe during the most recent Iraqi war. It was during an elective class in the media lab at MIT (while she was getting her 2nd masters degree) that a seemingly small class project - "how to change 1 billion lives with technology"...
2020-12-1423 min
Muslims Doing ThingsYuna Zarai is no stranger to the Billboard Hot 100Yuna Zarai has worked with Pharrell, Usher, G-Eazy, Tyler the Creator. She is a singer, a song writer, a phenomenon -- and she also finished law school.Episode plugs: Yuna's Instagram Yuna's new single, Dance Like Nobody's WatchingWhere also to find Yuna Yuna's Twitch Yuna's TwitterAbout the host + the pod: Follow Layla on Instagram Follow Muslims Doing Things on Instagram--- Send in a voice message: https://p...
2020-12-1343 min
Muslims Doing ThingsIsra Chaker is a professional activist -- and you can be one tooIsra Chaker is an activist, a community organizer, and a strong Muslim lead.Stay connected to Isra: Isra's Instagram Connect with Isra on LinkedInAbout the host + the pod: Follow Layla on Instagram Follow Muslims Doing Things on Instagram--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/laylool/message This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laylool...
2020-12-1347 min
Muslims Doing ThingsHassanah El-Yacoubi owns her identity (and her modest fashion empire)Hassanah El-Yacoubi founded the largest modest fashion convention in the world, PFH. She is a mom, a PhD, an influencer, and a force.Stay connected to Hassanah: Hassanah's Instagram PFH Conventions's Instagram PFH Hijab's InstagramAbout the host + the pod: Follow Layla on Instagram Follow Muslims Doing Things on Instagram--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/laylool/message This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss...
2020-12-1348 min
Muslims Doing ThingsTrailer: Muslims Doing ThingsHi! I am Layla Shaikley (@laylool), I co-founded a tech company and I am also visibly Muslim. So, my identity has been front and center throughout my life and career. I have lived a lifetime of reclaiming my narrative. This is my podcast where I will interview Muslims guests with really interesting career paths reclaiming theirs too. I'll share learnings on my journey. Listen if you want career inspo, life inspo, or just to know what’s up.Find me on Instagram.Find me on TikTok.Views are my own
2020-12-0705 min
FoundedLayla Shaikley | Founded PodcastLayla Shaikley is the Cofounder of Wise Systems. To date, she and her team have raised $23 million to develop the smartest next-generation routing software in the world. Learn more about her tech startup, Wise Systems → https://goo.gle/34ywwAq Transcription → https://goo.gle/3jMhQUU Subscribe and listen to learn how women tech founders are tackling some of the world's biggest challenges, from healthcare to economic justice, to sustainability.
2020-10-0836 min
2020-10-0800 min
Tell Them, I AmLaylaLayla Shaikley is a tech entrepreneur and Instagram influencer. When she was young, she discovered two things. One: that how you dress holds more meaning than you think. And two: that you can definitely use this to your advantage.
2019-05-3012 min
MIT Comparative Media Studies/WritingBeing Muslim in America (and MIT) in 2016Last December, Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States. In March, he added that “I think Islam hates us.” MIT alumna and Wise Systems co-founder Layla Shaikley join engineering masters student Abubakar Abid to explore how this type of hateful, discriminatory rhetoric influences public opinion, discuss its impact on the daily lives of Muslim-Americans, and examine strategies for combating it.
Layle Shaikley is an MIT alum, co-founder of Wise Systems and co-founder of TEDxBaghdad. With her viral video sensation “Muslim Hipsters: #mipsterz,” she helped launch a national conversation about how Muslim women ar...
2016-04-121h 12