Shows
Unswtnd + UnfltrdA Conversation w/ Alana Hadid: My Palestinian Identity, Philanthropy and Becoming an EntrepreneurIn today’s episode, I sit down with Alana Hadid, one of the many gems of our Palestinian community and her family is just as admirable as her. Recently, we have seen Alana and her sisters, including Bella come out full force and show their love for their people and their identity, from raising awareness to attending protests.In today’s discussion, Alana and I had sat down to discuss our Palestinian identity and what role it has played in who we have become today. We also discussed her business, La Detresse and how one can b...
2021-05-1949 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdIs God on Your Invite List: How to Make Sense of Our Hardships w/ Halima JamaSometimes Allah (swt) wants a certain level of Jannah for someone and when their good deeds alone can't get them there, He gives them hardship.These are such powerful words that I was fortunate enough to come across in a moment of need. In today's episode, I sit down with Halima Jama to discuss how we can better focus our lens on the blessings threaded within our hardships, how we can include Allah in every aspect of our lives and how to trust the next chapter we are embarking on because Allah is the author.S...
2021-05-0549 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdLoss and Grief: What Death Teaches Us About Life w/ Chaplain Sondos KholakiWe say that if we knew our expiration dates, we would live life differently. Yet, it's written that tomorrow is not guaranteed and we still go on living our lives no differently.In today's episode, I sit down with Sondos Kholaki, who is a Muslim Chaplain and author, to discuss a topic most of us intentionally avoid and that is Death. But, what if we chose to view death as a gift? What if we realized that there is so much more to learn from loss and grief?In this discussion we come face to...
2021-04-281h 26Unswtnd + UnfltrdConversation w/ A. Helwa: Reflections on Secrets of Divine LoveNo gift is greater than having a Creator who listens to you even when you don't speak. Who forgives your sins even when you don't feel worthy of His mercy. And who always guides us back no matter how far we have been led astray.In today's episode, you'll be listening to a recording of a Clubhouse Chatroom that Alex Fox and I had hosted back in March with our special guest, A. Helwa, the author of 'Secrets of Divine Love'.We were all enveloped by the poetic words of Helwa and the room was...
2021-04-211h 15Unswtnd + UnfltrdDelaying Our Blessings: Is There A Link Between Our Sins and Hardships w/ Sister Hosai MojaddidiIs it possible that we can be doing something to block or delay our blessings in this world?In today's episode, I am grateful for the chance to re-introduce you to one of my absolute favorite spiritual counselors and that is Sister Hosai Mojaddidi! She is a public speaker, teacher, writer, mentor and mental health advocate, too!Do you ever find yourself questioning if your hardships are a result of the sins you may be committing? If these hardships are a punishment that we have to face because of what we have done? In this...
2021-04-1452 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdEmpowered vs Tolerated: Reclaiming Our Space and Creating Roles for Muslim Women w/ Ustadha Maryam AmirIf I had asked you to name three female companions of the Prophet (pbuh) on the spot, would you be able to?This is a question that I had struggled with answering before having this discussion, yet ironically there isn't a shortage of female companions from our Prophet's (pbuh) time, nor a shortage in female scholars in today's society. But why is it that I am struggling with naming these powerful and admirable women?In today's episode, I sit down with Ustadha Maryam Amir, an illuminating light in our Muslim community, and not only does...
2021-04-071h 07Unswtnd + UnfltrdIslamic Mahr Contracts: Why Mahr is a Muslim Woman's Right w/ Dr. Tamara GrayThe topic of Mahr at times can be so nerve racking when discussed between potential spouses. Questions such as 'how much one should ask for' and 'if there's a limit for the amount requested' are at the top of everyone's list. Often times, we can be so quick in discussing the details of the wedding hall and guest list, but do we also make it a priority to reserve the time for serious discussions such as financial compatibility, especially when it comes to Mahr?Western media likes to portray it as a dowry or bride p...
2021-03-3157 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdBalancing Act: The Pressures of Being a Perfect Daughter and Pleasing Our Parents w/ Dr. Rania AwaadHave you ever played a game of tug of war, but with your parents, and it wasn't a game, but actually with your life?The tug of war I'm talking about is the one where what your parents want for you doesn't necessarily align with what you want for yourself. We've all been there, the shouting matches that end up with you and your parents not agreeing on certain life choices of yours.In today's episode I had the pleasure and honor of sitting down with Dr. Rania Awaad, someone who is truly a pinnacle i...
2021-03-1752 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdHeartbreak: Not Everything That You Lose is a Loss w/ Najwa Zebian"These mountains that you are carrying, you were only supposed to climb."Beautiful words from one of my absolute favorite poems written by Najwa Zebian who is today's special guest on the pod. Heartbreak and pain are sometimes inevitable, so how do we grieve relationships that end, how do we process loss that comes with a broken heart and most importantly how do learn to trust ourselves again?Najwa Zebian, a Lebanese-Canadian activist, poet, educator and speaker is the author of three poetry books and her fourth book is on its way to b...
2021-03-101h 05Unswtnd + UnfltrdSingles Edition: Destigmatizing Being Single and Navigating Mixed Signals w/ Hafsa HassanIf you're single, it shouldn't only mean that you're not dating. There's more to you than your relationship status.Often times we witness a woman's value being tied to her relationship status. So what message are we sending to those who are single or unmarried? What happened to the belief of trusting in God's timing?In this episode I sit down with Hafsa Hassan, a transformational coach with a holistic approach, to discuss the stigma surrounding single women, the difference between settling and manifesting the right partner and how to gauge sexual compatibility before marriage.
2021-02-241h 11Unswtnd + UnfltrdHealing From Abuse: Narcissists, Red Flags and Self Forgiveness w/ Doctor NahlaIn the words of Lydia Elle: You have to be heard to heal.Trigger Warning: When discussing narcissists, it tends to go hand in hand with the topic of abuse. Within this discussion we cover traits of a narcissistic partner while also touching upon the various forms of abuse.In today's episode, I sit down with Doctor Nahla, where we both share our personal experiences with abusive relationships, what reactive abuse entails and the burden survivors carry with them long after they have left their abusive partners.Someone once said, trauma teaches you...
2021-02-171h 08Unswtnd + UnfltrdIntimacy in Islam: Haram vs Halal, Navigating Sexual Desires and the Power of No w/ Noha AlshugairiThe topic of intimacy in Islam is a conversation that may at times come laced with shame and stigma. In today's episode, I sit down with Noha Alshugairi, to dismantle the misinformation surrounding this while also educating women about their rights, the power of no in a marriage and diving deeper into what is haram vs halal.I often wonder how we deviated so much from the days of our Prophet (pbuh) when it comes to seeking knowledge and empowering ourselves in terms of intimacy in Islam. How have we allowed a wall of shame to be...
2021-02-0358 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdSetting Boundaries: Communicating Expectations While Navigating Resentment and Anger w/ Yasmine CheyenneHave you ever loved and resented someone at the same time and is it healthy? In Episode 3 of Season 3, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Yasmine Cheyenne, a self healing expert, teacher and speaker, to discuss how to set boundaries rather than having uncommunicated expectations, how to navigate past trauma that has transformed itself into present resentment and knowing the difference of what is and what isn't meant to be yours.Some of us struggle with the act of setting and enforcing boundaries in our lives in order to have healthier relationships with...
2021-01-2749 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdSecrets of Divine Love: The Purpose of Our Existence w/ A. Helwa"We do not worship God because God needs it, we worship God because we need it. Prayer is not you reaching out for God, it is you responding to God, Who first reached out to you."In Episode 2 of Season 3, I have the pleasure and honor of sitting down with A. Helwa, the award winning author of Secrets of Divine Love. It's not everyday that you come across a book, other than the Quran itself, that can speak to you in such a profound manner. Her novel is filled with insightful gems and metaphors that...
2021-01-131h 08Unswtnd + UnfltrdJourney Back to Self: Recalibrating Our Souls and Resetting Our Intentions w/ Sara LuchettiHave you ever taken an honest moment to look at the life you have created only to realize it wasn’t your own?I am opening the new season as well as the New Year with Sara Luchetti, an intuitive healer and spiritual guide. The above question is one that Sara has posed and I couldn't help but to really dig deep into my own heart and soul to fully understand, who am I really?In Episode 1 of Season 3, Sara takes us on her personal journey of her transformational process, or as she would like to...
2021-01-0658 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdSeason Finale: Here's to Bittersweet Endings and New BeginningsPinch us...no really, please do, because we can't believe we are closing out another season of this podcast.In our Season 2 finale, we can't help but to tear up and laugh simultaneously at the year we have just had. 2020 was a year of reckoning but it was the year that pushed us beyond what we could have ever imagined for ourselves and for this platform.This podcast was birthed via a DM thread between Zaina and Dounya, both sharing their desire to create a platform for the stories that needed to be heard. Stories...
2020-12-2345 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdWhy Do We Marry Our Unfinished Business with Zahra AljabriHow do we go from relationship struggles to relationship goals?In Episode 37 of Season 2, we sit down with Zahra Aljabri to discuss what it means to marry our unfinished business, how we can overcome the pain points of our current relationship and how to deal with insecurities from our past. Zahra is a spiritual coach who will help guide us when it comes to the obstacles we face in our relationships. She breaks it down for us when it comes to dealing with past issues manifesting themselves into our current relationships. We also discuss how...
2020-12-161h 05Unswtnd + UnfltrdGrowing Up Sheltered and Dealing with Codependency in Adulthood w/ Zaynab BajwaMost of us have a story or two....ok maybe a whole book series...about how we grew up sheltered. In Episode 36 of Season 2, we sit down with Zaynab Bajwa to discuss the topic of growing up sheltered and if it leads to codependency. For some of us this could be a triggering topic, seeing that it brings back memories of every time our parents basically said no to anything without a valid explanation.We've all done it - where we found ourselves standing in front of a mirror practicing our speech to give our par...
2020-12-0952 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdThe Resilient Act of Loving Oneself Through Our Journey Back to God w/ Alia TahaIf I asked you, do you love yourself, what would you say?In Episode 35 of Season 2, we sit down with Alia Taha, who isn't a stranger to our podcast (she was a guest on Season 1), to discuss the root of self love and the resilient act of choosing to love ourselves despite our flaws, traumas and lived experiences.When you sit across from Alia, you know you will always leave the conversation feeling empowered, motivated and loved. Alia is the type of friend who beautifully reminds you of Allah and His mercy. In...
2020-11-2554 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdSkincare Journey: How to Deal w/ Acne Breakouts and Avoiding Common Skincare Mistakes w/ Dr. Fatima FahsIf you've ever experienced anxiety walking down the skincare aisle of your local drugstore, trust me when we say this, you're not alone!In Ep 34 of Season 2, we sit down with Dr. Fatima Fahs, aka Dermy Doctor, to discuss all things related to skincare. Most of us may have a love/hate relationship with our skincare routine and in this episode we dive deep into the do's and dont's when it comes to how to take care of our skin!Did you know that acne is the most common skin issue in the U...
2020-11-181h 00Unswtnd + UnfltrdUNFLTRD THOUGHTS: POST ELECTIONOur votes have been cast, our ballots have been counted, the new President-elect and VP have been announced and the world can finally let out a collective sigh...temporarily.On this week's Unfltrd Thoughts, we sit down with Arij Mikati, an activist and anti-racism educator, to discuss where do we go from here post election.A projected 161 million Americans voted in the 2020 elections - a nail biting, stress induced presidential race that resulted in Biden becoming President-elect and Kamala Harris as the first Black, South Asian female President. Now what? Our goal of k...
2020-11-1113 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdWhy is God Angry With Me and What To Do If You’re Too Depressed to Pray with Sarah SultanWhy is God angry with me?In Ep. 33 of Season 2, we sit down with Sarah Sultan to discuss those shameful but pressing questions we have about Allah and His presence during tough times, the impact trauma can have on our relationship with our faith and what to do when we're too depressed to even pray. We’ve talked about how trauma can have an ever-lasting effect on how we see ourselves, but it can also have an impact on how we perceive our connection to and our relationship with God. Although some of us...
2020-11-0456 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdUNFLTRD THOUGHTS: DealbreakersOn this week’s “Unfltrd Thoughts”, we discuss silly, but still kind of important deal breakers. Whether it’s the type of shoes that they wear (yes, this is a big concern to one of us, apparently) or what reality shows they’re into, we all have those little pet peeves that’ll send us packing. In this light-hearted conversation, we talk about some of the obvious and not so obvious things we can’t put up with. Head to our Instagram page @unsweetenedandunfiltered and join the conversation. Do you have any silly deal breakers...
2020-10-2807 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdThe Mind, Body & Spiritual Connection with Zermina AkbaryStressed out? Ladies, let’s talk!In Ep. 32 of Season 2, we sit down with Zermina Akbary from Living Wholelistic to talk about the mind, body & spiritual connection, the benefits of seed cycling and ways to reduce & manage our stress. In a very raw and vulnerable conversation, Zermina opens up about her life journey and the moments she felt at her lowest. She explains that during tough and ultra-stressful times it isn’t just our physical wellness that takes a hit, but also our spiritual and mental health as well. It is a web that is truly...
2020-10-2154 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdUNFLTRD THOUGHTS: Truth vs. LiesOn this week’s “Unfltrd Thoughts”, we answer the question: “Would you rather know the truth no matter how painful, or would you prefer being comforted by little white lies?” The truth is a powerful tool, one that can unlock many layers of a relationship.But what if a truth is too much for you to handle? We discuss our own personal thoughts on radical honesty, and just how hurtful it can be to find yourself on the receiving end of a lie being told.Head to our Instagram page @unsweetenedandunfiltered and join the c...
2020-10-1406 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdDealing with Hair Loss as Women: Debunking Myths and Sharing Tips with Dr. Sarah Kiani and PariLeaving a trail of hair strands everywhere you go? If you’re worried about hair loss and hair thinning, trust us when we say you’re not alone. In Ep. 31 of Season 2, we sit down with Dr. Sarah Kiani and Pari to discuss a topic that has been on the top of the minds of many women, literally. We dive right into our own personal hair loss journeys and the reason its become a taboo topic to discuss. Dr. Sarah breaks down the lifespan of a hair follicle and explains why some hair shed...
2020-10-071h 28Unswtnd + UnfltrdUNFLTRD THOUGHTS: Sorry, But We Can’t Be Friends AnymoreOn this week’s “Unfltrd Thoughts", we talk about how to handle finding out your friend’s true colors.Our differences make us who we are and when it comes to our friend groups it’s those differences that lead to intriguing conversations and learning more about the other.But what if those differences go against or negate your own life's values?We’re not talking about rooting for an opposing sports team here, but what if, for instance, you find out your friend supports Trump?We share our thoughts on discoverin...
2020-09-3006 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdThe Journey of Finding Love Again and Discussing the Negative Perception of Divorced Women with Lisa VoglWhen it comes to finding a naseeb, it seems like the odds are stacked against us from the start. But as a divorcee, the challenges are stacked even higher.In Ep. 30 of Season 2, we sit down with Lisa Vogl to talk about life post-divorce, the collateral damage that comes with it and how our community can band together to help change the negative perception of divorced women. Unfortunately, women are often seen as the reason for the divorce, even when it wasn’t their fault. We dive into the Scarlett Letter that divorced women are fo...
2020-09-231h 11Unswtnd + UnfltrdUNFLTRD THOUGHTS: SoulmatesOn this week’s “Unfltrd Thoughts", we talk about soulmates and whether or not we think they exist. Life isn’t a Disney movie or romantic comedy starring Meg Ryan & Tom Hanks - unfortunately. But does that mean soulmates are a thing of fiction? The idea of finding your soulmate has become more of a cliche than anything else over the years, but the idea that there is someone out there made especially for you, is an idea we want to hang on to. We also dive into the ayah “we created you in pairs”...
2020-09-1611 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdPostpartum Journey: Navigating Depression, Bridging the Generational Gap and Loving Our Bodies with Sara AhmedNo matter how much time you take to prep the nursery, baby-proof your home or reread “What To Expect When You’re Expecting” - nothing will ever truly prepare you for what's to come.In Ep. 29 of Season 2, we sit down with Sara Ahmed to talk about postpartum depression, the internal and external struggles of seeking help and how we can learn to love and appreciate our bodies. Sara dives into her pregnancy and post-pregnancy journeys and debunks some pretty common postpartum myths. The anxiety, the depression and the stigma that still surrounds mental...
2020-09-091h 22Unswtnd + UnfltrdUNFLTRD THOUGHTS: ForgivenessIn our first "Unfltrd Thoughts", we talk about forgiveness. We dig deep into our own personal process when it comes to forgiving those who've wronged us and moments that may signal conflicts that are yet unresolved.One of the hardest relationships to have is the one you share with yourself. So, learning to forgive past mistakes you've made isn't the easiest thing to do, but we talk about how we're learning to cut ourselves some slack.Don't forget to head to our Instagram page @unsweetenedandunfiltered and share your thoughts on forgiveness with us.
2020-09-0205 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdThe Role Of A Lifetime & How The Role Of Our Parents Can Influence Our Dreams with Zoha RahmanA chance to play a role of a lifetime is a dream come true for this week's guest, but how did the role of her parents influence her decision? In Ep.28 of Season 2, we speak to Zoha Rahman, who starred in the Marvel movie, "Spiderman: Far From Home", as the first hijabi character. We chat with Zoha about representation in the media and her thoughts on tokenism, as well as starting a career in acting; a profession not too often touched by those in our community. We also dive into the many conversations...
2020-08-261h 11Unswtnd + UnfltrdUnderstanding Sexual Health and Confronting Sexual Violence with Aisha IsmailTrigger Warning: In this episode we discuss sexual violence. If you find this topic to be triggering, please hit pause and check out some of our older episodes instead! Let's stop beating around the bush when it comes to our bodies and our health. Instead, let's empower each other with shameless knowledge and remove the stigma that follows. In Ep. 27 of Season 2, we speak to Aisha Ismail about the lack of sexual health & reproductive education in the Muslim community, the importance of understanding and confronting sexual violence and all that the Muslim-led organization Heart has to...
2020-08-191h 32Unswtnd + UnfltrdWhy Are We So Afraid Of Letting Go with Shazia ImamYour happiness shouldn’t amount to the number of checkboxes you tick, but instead the things that truly put your heart and soul at ease. In Ep. 26 of Season 2, we sit down with Shazia Imam to talk about the fear of letting go, cultivating a relationship with ourselves and learning how to let go and put our faith in Allah’s hands. Shazia opens up about a very personal and vulnerable part of her life; moments she thought there was no way she could ever find happiness. She takes us through those dark moments of her pr...
2020-08-121h 13Unswtnd + UnfltrdFrom Broke to Woke: How to Deal with Financial Stress and Take Control of Your Finances w/ Kenya ImaniYour worth shouldn’t be defined by your bank account balance or your credit score, but that shouldn’t mean you should ignore these figures, either.In Ep. 25 of Season 2, Kenya Imani gives us great insight on how to take control of our finances by creating a budget, investing and tackling our loans. We discuss financial trauma and how the topic of money can be very stressful for many people. It's important to not dismiss the healing portion of the financial process.There’s a lot we aren’t taught in school, and unfortuna...
2020-08-051h 20Unswtnd + Unfltrd‘Does God Even Know You’, Thoughts on the Evil Eye and "Ramy" with May CalamawyIt’s important to remember that your relationship with God is no one else’s but yours. So learn to leave the judgement, the comparisons and envy at the door. In Ep. 24 of Season 2, we sit down with May Calamawy (again!) to discuss the second season of the Hulu show “Ramy”! Our conversation touches upon faith, creating a personal relationship with God, and as well as our thoughts on the evil eye. Struggling with faith isn’t an uncommon thing to go through. Calamawy discusses the ups and downs her character faces with faith on the show and...
2020-07-291h 08Unswtnd + UnfltrdSpiritual Bypassing: How To Not Use Faith as an Avoidance Mechanism with Sumayyah TaufiqueNo one said practicing self-growth was going to be easy, but we can promise you it will be worth it. In Ep. 23 of Season 2 we sit down with Sumayyah Taufique to discuss self growth, learning how to show ourselves compassion and the concept of spiritual bypassing. When you think of your ideal day of self-care, you probably think of a nice long bath, a trip to the spa or a day spent Netflixing surrounded by your favorite food. According to Sumayyah, there’s nothing wrong with that. But she also says there’s another...
2020-07-151h 06Unswtnd + UnfltrdFinding Yourself Post Divorce: Honoring Our Hardships And Empowering OurselvesLife is full of unexpected twists and turns, but it’s through these ups and downs that we are shaped into who we are truly meant to be. In Ep. 22 of Season 2, we sit down with Hanan Abdel-Khalek to discuss finding happiness post-divorce, learning to honor the hardships we face in silence and how we can take control of our lives and invest in our own selves. Hanan opens up about getting married and ultimately divorced in her early twenties. We discuss many of the things we often overlook when getting into a new relationship, and...
2020-07-081h 09Unswtnd + UnfltrdUnmasking Microaggressions & Taking Anti-Racism Discussions Beyond The Dinner Table with Eman Idil BareBlack Lives Matter isn’t an Instagram trend, it’s a commitment to justice. And it’s not just a moment, but a movement that will never not be important. In Ep. 21 of Season 2, we sit down with Eman Idil Bare to discuss her bouts with racism beginning at such a young age, anti-blackness in the media and what we can do to help push the BLM movement beyond our dinner table discussions. Micro-aggressions are more than just insults or insensitive comments. They are the thinly veiled, everyday instances of racism that you see in the world...
2020-07-011h 17Unswtnd + UnfltrdSpiritual Check In: Dealing With Our Nafs And Becoming More God Conscious with Hosai MojaddidiHow can you tell if it’s your nafs or the Shaytan luring you away from Allah? How many times should you ask for forgiveness for the same sin? What are the differences between a hypocrite and a believer? In Ep. 20 of Season 2, we sit down with Hosai Mojaddidi to discuss the diseases of the heart, dealing with our nafs and how to view hardships as blessings in disguise.Our hearts are vessels that carry all that we consume. And while we allow ourselves to over-indulge without a second thought, it’s important to realize the...
2020-06-241h 16Unswtnd + UnfltrdThe Power Of Our Voices: How To Incite Change by Making an Impact with Jael KerandiYour voice is your power. Use it to speak up against any injustices you may see, and fight for what you truly believe in. That’s our duty as Muslims. In Ep. 19 of Season 2, we sit down with Jael Kerandi to discuss the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, how she used her voice to push her University to adjust their relationship with the Minneapolis Police and encourage change nationwide. After news broke of Floyd’s death, Jael says she knew she had to do something to protect her fellow students. She drafted up a letter...
2020-06-171h 20Unswtnd + UnfltrdFrom Allies To Accomplices: Fighting Racism Within Our Own Communities with Remaz KhalaleyalAs Muslims, we have no other choice but to stand alongside our Black brothers and sisters. In Ep. 18 of Season 2, we sit down with Remaz Khalaleyal to discuss the recent murder of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis Police, stereotypes and racism that exist within our own non-black community and the absolute need to go beyond the hashtags to actually make a difference.George Floyd wasn’t the first Black man to be murdered at the hands of police brutality, but we are calling for his death to be the last. In this mu...
2020-06-101h 13Unswtnd + UnfltrdHow To Harness Your Self-Worth, Finding Purpose Through Pain and Dealing with Toxic Friendships With Fariha RubFinding your tribe is important. That group of women who you can turn to for help, to have a good time with or seek advice from. But we all know, making friends as adults doesn’t come easy. In Ep. 17 of Season 2, we’re joined by Fariha Rub, aka The Doctor Mommy, to talk about self-worth, cultivating friendships and finding purpose through pain. Self esteem isn’t something they teach you in school, neither is it something instilled in us from birth. But building up our self-esteem allows us to recognize our self-worth. No matter what a...
2020-05-271h 19Unswtnd + UnfltrdThe Unconscious Mind: How To Silence Our Mental Chatter and Protect Ourselves From Loneliness and Disconnection with Iman BoundaouiWhat goes on in your mind has the power to change your life. But when you have a million thoughts racing through your head all at once, it’s hard to focus on the present moment.In Episode 16 of Season 2, we are joined by Iman Boundaoui to discuss mindfulness, cherishing the essence of time and how to better make sense of our mental chatter. One of the hardest quests in life is finding your life’s purpose. When it comes to choosing a career path, many of us just settle. Iman says the journey isn’t alway...
2020-05-201h 31Unswtnd + UnfltrdThe Benefits Of Laylut Al-Qadr: Making Dua And The Power of Istikhara Prayer with Youssra Kamel KandilWhether you think time is flying by or it's stuck at a standpoint, we’ve made it to the final ten days of Ramadan, alhamdillah! In Episode 15 of Season 2, we are joined by Youssra Kamel Kandil to talk about how to make the most of the time we have left of this Holy month. In these last Ten Nights of Power, also known as Laylatul Qadr, our reward for good deeds like prayer, charity and reading Quran are multiplied. Now is the best time to form and strengthen our bond with Allah (subhanu wa ta'ala) an...
2020-05-1357 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdA Black Muslim Woman's Fight Against Anti-Blackness and Islamophobia with Ayesha JihadUnfortunately, Muslims are used to being on the opposite end of racism and inequality. What’s even more disappointing than that, is when at times that intolerance may also be coming from our own Ummah. In Ep. 14 of Season 2, we sit down with Ayesha Jihad to talk about her experiences as a black Muslim woman and the struggles she has faced.Growing up in Saudi Arabia, Ayesha explains her first bouts with racism and the effect it has had on her relationship with her identity. At a young age, she began distancing herself away from the...
2020-05-061h 11Unswtnd + UnfltrdPurifying Our Intentions, Softening Our Hearts and Understanding Allah's Mercy with Fatima ShendyThe goal isn’t to just make it through this month, but it’s to leave it a better person than when we had entered it. In Episode 13 of Season 2, we’re joined by Fatima Shendy to talk about purifying our intentions, understanding Allah’s infinite mercy and all things in-between. When Ramadan comes around most of us expect a miracle to occur. We suddenly expect our connection to God and to our prayer to strengthen overnight, but when that doesn’t happen we’re left feeling empty and disappointed. Fatima explains that sometimes that disconnection...
2020-04-291h 17Unswtnd + UnfltrdSimple Tips For A Successful Mind & Body Connection During Ramadan with Zainab IsmailWith Ramadan on the horizon, most of us are wondering how we’ll survive the coffee-withdrawals, thirst and random hunger pains.In Ep.12 of Season 2, Zainab Ismail aka Zainab Fit For Allah gives us some insight on how we can achieve a healthy and successful month of fasting. Prepping, both mentally and physically, for Ramadan is crucial. When it comes to our bodies, what we put in it affects our overall mood and well-being. Zainab suggests trying to limit “junk foods” and cutting down on caffeine before entering the holy month - this will help allevia...
2020-04-221h 10Unswtnd + UnfltrdThe One Ramadan We'll Never Forget With Amasi DecorWe have waited all year for this month: Taraweeh prayers, azumas surrounded by loved ones and the chance to bond with family and friends!But this year we’ll forgo the gatherings for our own safety and this Ramadan will definitely be one to remember. In Ep. 11 of Season 2, we sit down with Saja and Suha, the women behind Amasi Decor, to talk about celebrating the holy month while social distancing. Just because this Ramadan doesn’t look like any others that we’ve participated in, it doesn’t mean we still can’t bring the...
2020-04-151h 02Unswtnd + UnfltrdYou're Not Alone: Dealing With Sadness and Hopelessness with Berak Hussain*TRIGGER WARNING*: In this episode we discuss mental illness, suicide and self-harm in length. If you feel the content discussed may be triggering, please either proceed with caution or feel free to listen to any one of our previous episodes. We have also provided a list of credible resources below.In Ep.10 of Season 2, we are joined by psychotherapist Berak Hussain as we dive deep into mental illness and self harm in the Muslim community. We discuss ways we can emerge out of this sea of sadness and hopelessness. This is a very sensitive topic...
2020-04-081h 21Unswtnd + UnfltrdFrom Finding God To Life After Taking The Shahada with Rebecca KhanWe often hear stories about why people decided to convert to Islam, but what’s life like after taking the shahada?In Ep. 9 of Season 2, Rebecca Khan shares with us her journey to becoming Muslim and what attracted her heart to the religion. A change of diet, new wardrobe and a flip in lifestyle, Rebecca opens up about her struggles with her identity post-converting. She explains adjusting to the change and how she managed not to lose sight of herself throughout it all. While some who are new to the religion change their name...
2020-04-011h 12Unswtnd + UnfltrdMother and Daughter: An Open Dialogue About Depression and Anxiety w/ Summer Shatat and Bayan RafatiThere’s no set guideline on what to do when it comes to helping your child through their mental illness and no such thing as a perfect parenting plan.In Ep. 8 of Season 2, we sit down with Summer Shatat and her 17 year-old daughter, Bayan Rafati, to talk about their journey to mental wellness.You probably remember Summer who joined us back on Ep. 5 of Season 1, where she opened up about her personal struggles with mental illness, but in this episode, the conversation shifts over to her kids and how she’s choosing to talk to them...
2020-03-251h 45Unswtnd + UnfltrdDedicating Our Lives To Uncovering The Truth and Facing Our Fears with Malika BilalWe’re done with allowing fear to dictate our lives and keep us from truly living out our dreams. In Ep.7 of Season 2, we talk to Malika Bilal about how we can look our fears straight in the eye, and conquer them. When it came to choosing a career, Malika didn’t allow her fears to sway her decision. And yes, she deals with the unknown and the mental chatter in her head from time to time- but Malika explains how she’s able to move past these obstacles. As a black-Muslim-female journalist, Malika is...
2020-03-181h 09Unswtnd + UnfltrdFirst Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage: How To Maintain A Happy and Healthy Marriage While Avoiding Pulling Out All Of Your Hair w/ Yasmin ElHady aka YasGuruAfter the big white dress is taken off, the party planners have packed away all of the decor you spent months going back and forth on and the guests have all gone home - that’s when reality really kicks in. In Ep. 6 of Season 2, we are joined by matchmaker, comedian and all around lovable Yasmin ElHady aka Yasguru to discuss life after the wedding. Marriage is a beautiful thing - it really is! But, it also brings along some not so picture perfect moments such as picking up laundry off the floor for the umpte...
2020-03-111h 31Unswtnd + UnfltrdOne Year Down + Inshallah Many More To Go: Celebrating Sisterhood And Placing Our Faith in the Forefront With Hassanah El-YacoubiLet the zagroutas ring like Shakira at this year’s Super Bowl Half-Time Show! We have a lot to celebrate this week: Our one-year anniversary, International Women's Day and a very special guest!In Ep.5 of Season 2, we sit down with Hassanah El-Yacoubi or as we like to call her:The Woman Of All Trades (mashallah!)A mother, wife, doctoral student and entrepreneur are just a few titles Hassanah holds under her belt and she’s not here to sugarcoat anything. When it comes to life, Hassanah says it's all one big balan...
2020-03-041h 42Unswtnd + UnfltrdInspiring Teachers: Educating and Empowering Our Youth with Bayan FounasToss out those outdated lesson plans and forget about sticking to the book. In Ep. 4 of Season 2, we are joined by Detroit educator, Bayan Founas, who is truly redefining what it means to be an educator.Teaching is by far one of the most important careers out there. Bayan spends a good chunk of her day shaping the future leaders, doctors, lawyers and artists of our next generation. But as rewarding as this may sound, teaching can also be extremely difficult. With limited resources and disruptive environments, a career in education can be tim...
2020-02-261h 29Unswtnd + UnfltrdLights, Camera, Action: Following Your Dreams and Narrating Your Own Life Story with Samah Safi BayazidWe’re flipping the script and rewriting our own narrative!In Ep 3 of Season 2, we’re joined by award-winning screenwriter, filmmaker and producer Samah Safi Bayazid - talk about being a triple threat! Going against cultural norms and paving a way for others to follow, Samah explains her personal journey of finding a career that she is truly passionate about. Samah is fed up with the racial stereotypes and blatant Islamophobia portrayed in movies and on television (as are the rest of us!), but now she’s stepping in with her own script and a cam...
2020-02-191h 14Unswtnd + UnfltrdFinding Your Naseeb: The Good, The Bad, and The Extremely Awkward with SuzieThere are a few things in life that are hard to find: perfectly fitting jeans, eyeliner that doesn’t smudge, and a naseeb. In Ep 2 of Season 2, we’re joined by Suzie, a 26 year old Palestinian-American from the D.C. area, for a much needed girl talk. We discuss the journey of finding the one, and let me tell you the struggle is REAL. All three of us share our very different approaches when it comes to meeting someone and the process of getting to know them. We dive into personal anecdotes of the good, the ba...
2020-02-121h 41Unswtnd + UnfltrdDomestic Violence: From Victim to Survivor*Trigger warning: We discuss domestic violence in length throughout this episode. If you feel the content discussed may be triggering, please either proceed with caution or feel free to listen to any one of our previous episodes.* In our first episode of Season Two, we are joined by an anonymous guest who opens up about her experience with domestic violence and the impact it has had on her life to this day. We respect our guest's decision to remain anonymous due to her children not knowing the extent of their father's abuse.Sometimes o...
2020-02-051h 57Unswtnd + UnfltrdKissing 2019 Goodbye and Finally Taking Our Own AdviceIn Episode 40, we’re kissing 2019 goodbye. Ma3a salama!We sit down to answer all of your questions. Some are intense and raw, like “What stands between you and becoming a happier person?”Others are a bit more silly, like “What’s the stupidest thing you’ve been dared to do?” You guys are not going to believe Dounya’s answer! We discuss stress, dealing with conflicts, mistakes we’ve made in the past and all things in between. We laugh, we (almost) cry and we let it all out. In this episode, you’ll...
2019-12-251h 09Unswtnd + UnfltrdFinding the Silver Lining Within Our Hardships and Embodying Gratitude with Lina BettayebIn Episode 39, Lina Bettayeb joins us as she dives into the family trip that had completely changed her life. At the age of 16, Lina and her family embark on a journey to Umrah. Her memory jumps from a joyous van full of her loved ones on their way to complete their pilgrimage to waking up in the hospital connected to several life-saving machines. Although, she still can't piece together the memories of what happened that day, Lina tells us that her dad was the one to fill her in: A reckless driver crashed into their ve...
2019-12-181h 05Unswtnd + UnfltrdCreating a Sisterhood and Finding Your Purpose on Social Media with Erim KaurIn Episode 38, we are joined by our special guest Erim Kaur, the big sister you never knew you needed. Erim opens up about losing her mom at the age of 8, growing up without any sisters and being raised by her father and grandparents.Using her life experiences and her past childhood, Erim is now stepping into the role of big sister, helping those who grew up without a mother or sister, navigate life. She hosts Sister Sundays, which focus each week on different topics like relationships, dealing with conflict and self love. When it...
2019-12-111h 18Unswtnd + UnfltrdGrieving a Miscarriage, Coping with Infertility and the Truth About IVF with PariGrab a tissue...no wait, go back for the entire box. Trust us, you'll need it! In Episode 37, Pari joins us for an emotional yet inspirational conversation about infertility and the struggles she had faced, both physically and mentally, as she navigated her way towards motherhood.For years, Pari tried for a baby of her own, but with every step she took to becoming the mother she knew she was destined to be, a tragedy would strike. Three miscarriages, a failed IVF attempt and a few unexpected medical diagnoses, Pari began feeling helpless. Bu...
2019-12-041h 32Unswtnd + UnfltrdLove and Marriage, Toxic Partners and Building a Relationship with God feat. Ascia SaharLove and marriage, love and marriage...in Episode 36, Ascia Sahar joins us to talk about all things relationship related. When it comes to toxic relationships, Ascia says she is no stranger to them. The now-mother of three walks us through the moment she knew she had to finally leave, the red flags that stuck out to her the most and how she used her connection to Allah (swt) and prayer to guide her in making that choice. If you find it difficult to open yourself up again after ending a negative relationship, you are not alone. As...
2019-11-271h 35Unswtnd + UnfltrdLiving with Depression/Anxiety, Struggles with Birth Control and First Generation Guilt with Hemali MistryIn Episode 35, we sit down with Hemali Mistry as we dive into an unfiltered conversation about mental health, birth control, the struggle of being a first-gen child and the effects social media can have on our lives. You may know Hemali from her page, Ready to Glow, but the Canadian native wants you to know that she has more to bring to the table than just her picture perfect make-up skills. Hemali invites us into her world as she opens up about her bouts with mental health issues, depression and anxiety. She shares with us where the...
2019-11-201h 14Unswtnd + UnfltrdWalking Away from Toxic Friendships, Mourning Relationships and Forgiving Yourself with Dear ChereenMove over Dear Abby! In Episode 34, we are joined by Chereen, a therapist, life coach and the mastermind behind DearChereen.com. In a much needed therapeutic episode, we discuss grief in all of its varying forms. Chereen explains that grieving is an essential part of moving forward. Whether it's a loved one who is gone too soon, an end of a relationship with a significant other or even the demise of a friendship, we all grieve in different ways. As for toxic relationships, why do we choose to stay in them? According to Chereen, so ma...
2019-11-131h 04Unswtnd + UnfltrdDouble Standards, Dissecting the Fragility of Our Reputations as Women and Encouraging Sisterhood with Dearborn GirlIn Episode 33, we take U+U on the road for the first time as we sit down with the brilliant minds behind Dearborn Girl, the podcast. You read that right, your two favorite podcasts all in one episode! It can't get any better than this. Rima, Yasmeen and Malak join us in an extremely unfiltered conversation to discuss double standards in our community, marriage and where the pressure surrounding the topic really stems from, our reputations and the struggle we face trying to protect it as well as how women can really support other women. La...
2019-11-061h 10Unswtnd + UnfltrdDealing with Criticism for Being a Non-Hijabi, Overcoming Heartbreak and Juggling LifeIn Episode 32, we’re shaking things up a bit and bringing you guys in on the conversation. To mark being on-air for more than 6 months, we reached out to our supporters who didn’t hold back when it came to asking super intimate and personal questions. From how to deal with heartbreak to why we don’t wear the hijab (yet), we let our guard down and bare it all in this episode. We also talk about our personal struggles with embodying self-love and learning to teach ourselves that we are enough, with or without a partner.We...
2019-10-301h 03Unswtnd + UnfltrdRemoving the Hijab, Connecting With God Spiritually and Ritualistically and Losing a Parent with Alia TahaIn Episode 31, Alia Taha joins us as she shares her take on the current state of the hijab. As a hijabi, Alia offers some insight on the battle most women are dealing with; the struggle to keep it on. As we have seen an influx of women deciding to remove the hijab, it’s Alia’s faith and connection to God that keeps her motivated it put it on every day. But that connection hasn’t always been as solid as it is today. Alia opens up about the moments she grappled with the idea of removing the hij...
2019-10-231h 54Unswtnd + UnfltrdFinding Your Voice in the Workplace, Battling Imposter Syndrome and Promoting Sisterhood with Sofia HaqThere's nothing dirty about our Dirty 30 episode. We decided to keep it professional as we're joined by Sofia Haq, the founder of Muslim Women Professionals. MWP is an organization that promotes empowerment amongst Muslim women by educating, uplifting, and mobilizing a global network. This organization serves as a space where Muslim women are inspired to thrive in both their personal and professional lives through networking, mentorships, and content. Sofia explains why this type of networking group is crucial for Muslim women in the workforce, she discusses ways in which we can become more supportive of on...
2019-10-161h 13Unswtnd + UnfltrdEmpowering our Daughters, Juggling Marriage and Motherhood and Rediscovering Who We Are with Sahar HamdanIn Episode 29, Sahar Hamdan-Khalaf stops by to talk to us about marriage, motherhood and how she's taking the necessary steps to rediscovering herself after all these years. Sahar fell in love and got married at the age of 18 and one year later she welcomed her first child into the world. Now in her mid 30s, Sahar is the mother of two teenage daughters, a 17 and 15yr old. She is also the mother of two young boys, 10 and 5 years old. Growing up in a strict household, Sahar shares how she's deciding on how to raise her kids differently b...
2019-10-091h 14Unswtnd + UnfltrdExpect the Unexpected: Navigating Life in My Thirties with Breast CancerIn Episode 28, we kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Bassema. Statistically - less than 2% of all women diagnosed are in their early to mid 30’s and in a series of unfortunate events, Bassema became part of that statistic.In an extremely vulnerable episode, she walks us through how she dealt with her mother's breast cancer diagnosis, the signs she began noticing on her own body, her experience with doctors who at first didn't taker her pain seriously and the aftermath of learning she, indeed, had breast cancer, too. Alongside her diagnosis, Bassema also shares another unfortunate su...
2019-10-021h 24Unswtnd + UnfltrdFinding the Root of Happiness Through Faith and Positive Thinking with Aminah MusaIn Episode 27, we sit down with Aminah Musa at The Wing and we dive deep into who this powerhouse of a woman truly is. Many of you may know Aminah from her brand, PaliRoots, which she runs alongside her brother Hussein. Through this movement she has become a successful female entrepreneur and someone who is exploding with passion, love and creativity. Aminah teaches us how to train our minds to appreciate the good and to observe the negative thoughts that arise subconsciously, rather than just sweeping them under the rug. We further discuss how to tr...
2019-09-251h 45Unswtnd + UnfltrdBefriending Failure and Embracing Our Thirties with Sahar ShafiIn Episode 26, Sahar Shafi leaves us feeling all types of ways with her vulnerability, honesty and all around adorable charm. Although, she's currently a successful Periodontal & Implant Surgeon (mashallah), Sahar tells us she's no stranger to failure. After moving away to attend a fairly large university, her grades suffered tremendously during her freshman year. Sahar talks about accepting the fact that something she once really wanted wasn’t in God’s plan for her. She discusses her choice to move back home and how she pulled herself out of that hole and to go on and graduate Magna...
2019-09-181h 05Unswtnd + UnfltrdFrom Shamed to Unashamed: Turning Wounds Into Wisdom with Khitam MasoudIn Episode 25, we are joined by Khitam Masoud, a cancer survivor and nonprofit organization founder. In 1998, when she was just 16 yrs old, Khitam decided to take her parents to court and fight for her emancipation in order to avoid an arranged marriage. With no relationship with her family she has had to overcome obstacles on her own, which proved to be silver linings once the dust had settled. Khitam walks us through the struggles she had faced as she learned to navigate life on her own at such a young age. She balanced multiple jobs as she t...
2019-09-111h 16Unswtnd + UnfltrdPracticing Mindfulness & Sunnah Through our Diet with Alaa Elharezi aka Haus of BlushIn Episode 24, Alaa Elharezi enlightens us as we talk about health and wellness in a whole new way. As a certified Hijama therapist, Yoga Instructor and Ayurvedic Health Advisor, Alaa offers up some simple ways to improve our daily lives and overall health. Although, the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH) and those of Ayurvedic medicine vary, she finds a way to incorporate both into her regimen, seamlessly. By integrating Prophetic wisdom and medicine into the way we eat, drink and sleep, Alaa explains the positive results she's witnessed, such as a healthier gut, clear mind and a...
2019-09-041h 22Unswtnd + Unfltrd"No, I'm Not Done Venting" with Ayesha MalikIn Episode 23, we are joined by Ayesha Malik, the Pakistani-American woman who unapologetically called out Priyanka Chopra at Beautycon. The reason for the confrontation: Kashmir. Pakistan and India have been in a custody battle over Kashmir for over 7 decades now. With tensions rising, a tweet by Priyanka supporting India’s armed forces at a time where Ayesha'a family feared for their lives, was all the motivation Ayesha needed to confront the actress and goodwill ambassador of UNICEF. In this episode, we discuss the reason for the Kashmir "custody battle", why Ayesha felt compelled to speak out...
2019-08-2854 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdPelvic Pain, PMS, Migraines and Everything in Between with Heba ShaheedIn Episode 22, we get down to the real truth with Heba Shaheed, in regards to period pain, the many myths surrounding PMS, how to be more in tune with our bodies and the importance of mental health overall! Heba provides women’s health and pediatric pelvic health services including physiotherapy, exercise, nutrition and pain education. She specializes in sexual pain, pelvic pain and endometriosis just to name a few! Through her personal story, Heba unravels almost everything we need to know about our bodies, such as where do migraines come from or what’s the difference between a migraine and a...
2019-08-211h 34Unswtnd + UnfltrdConversations with a Muslim Therapist and Learning How to Humanize our Prophet with Sara BawanyIn Episode 21, Sara Bawany gives us a crash course on all things mental health. Scheduling an appointment with a therapist isn't on the top of every Muslim's to-do list due to the intimidation and misconceptions that surround therapy, however, Sara explains why paying attention to our mental health is just as important as our physical health. We learn about what traits to look for while choosing a therapist, instances in the Quran that highlight the importance of mental health and how to de-stigmatize therapy in our culture. We also discuss certain moments in the Prophet's (pbuh) life where mental...
2019-08-141h 39Unswtnd + UnfltrdIntercultural Marriage, Infertility and the Shift in Modest Fashion With YazTheSpazIn Episode 20, we chat with Yasemin Kanar aka YazTheSpaz and trust me she doesn’t hold back. Yasemin gives us an in depth look into the melting pot of cultures which is her life. With a mother from Cuba and her father from Turkey, she decided to add to her hybrid life when she found her soulmate, who is of an Egyptian background. We talk about the struggles that come with an intercultural marriage and the beauty it also brings. Yasemine lets down her walls to also discuss the truth about marriage outside of a perfectly curated Instagram photo. Wi...
2019-08-071h 17Unswtnd + UnfltrdSorry Not Sorry with Jackie CourtneyIn Episode 19, we talk to Jackie Courtney, the mastermind behind the incredible website NearlyNewlywed.com. Prior to creating Nearly Newlywed, Jackie worked as a publicist for international fashion designers including Marni, Thakoon, Matthew Williamson and Emilio Pucci and top stylists/editors at Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar, InStyle and more. Jackie walks us through where the idea of her business came about, why it's so important we unlearn the habit of apologizing (yeah, sorry not sorry is actually a thing), the reason taking up space is something we need to be proud of and how we need to quit the...
2019-07-311h 25Unswtnd + UnfltrdNavigating Life Through Trauma and Body Dysmorphia with Leah VernonIn Episode 18, Leah Vernon blessed us with her presence. As a plus-size model, author, body-positive activist and Muslim feminist, Leah is creating a new narrative for women who don't fit into normalized beauty standards. We dive deep into Leah's childhood and the trauma she had endured, why she decided to embrace her body after a lifetime of shaming and the ways she deals with an influx of social media hate. Whether it's through her eccentric outfits, documenting her bouts with mental health or sharing her dancing videos with her supporters, Leah is the breath of fresh air that you’ve b...
2019-07-241h 13Unswtnd + UnfltrdDear Baba, I Miss You with Mna EldaasGrab some tissues! In Episode 17, we talk to Mna Eldaas, who unfortunately lost her father to liver cancer in 2016. Coming from an extremely tight-knit family, Mna walks us through the pains, struggles and upsets she had experienced after his passing. In a completely vulnerable state, she explains her grieving process, why it's crucial to understand that grief is unique to each individual and the reason why finding a way to connect to those who we have lost is fundamental in order to heal. Through this heavy loss she has found a special way to honor her father by creating...
2019-07-171h 10Unswtnd + UnfltrdA Mother's Intuition with Fawzieh Kahook AwadIn Episode 16, we sit down with Fawzieh Kahook, a mother of two beautiful boys. Fawzieh walks us through the first time she began noticing things about her younger son that set him from apart from his older brother. These little red flags set alarms off in her head, but seemed minimal to family and friends when she expressed her concerns. The toys he liked, not answering to his name and the way he avoided eye contact were all warning signs. Fawzieh explains why she decided to finally listen to her own gut instincts and get her son in front...
2019-07-101h 03Unswtnd + UnfltrdHow to Heal Post DivorceIn Episode 15, we are joined by an anonymous guest who takes us through the roller coaster ride that was her marriage. An unexpected pregnancy and already unsure of where her relationship stood, she discovers something truly unbelievable about her now ex-husband. Our guest walks us through her thought process on why she initially decided to stay and when she decided enough was enough. Wise beyond her years, she explains her healing process, the way she regained the strength to stand on her own two feet and the reason co-parenting is a necessity. This is an episode full of audible...
2019-07-031h 07Unswtnd + UnfltrdUnapologetically Me with Shaymaa Ismaa’eelIn Episode 14, Shaymaa Ismaa’eel joins us to discuss her journey in connecting spiritually to her faith. Although, that journey varies from one person to the next, Shaymaa's approach to finding her place in Islam is truly inspirational. We also talk about what it's like to be visibly Muslim in today's political climate and how she deals with racism. We learn though that racism doesn't always come from outside of one's religious group and as a Black-Muslim, Shaymaa deals with this problem in different forms, including from within the Muslim community. Enjoy and remember to follow us on...
2019-06-261h 23Unswtnd + UnfltrdEating Disorders in the Muslim Community with Adeline Ania HocineTRIGGER WARNING: This episode focuses primarily on eating disorders. If you feel the content discussed could be triggering, please either proceed with caution, or feel free to listen to any one of our previous episodes. In Episode 13, Adeline Ania Hocine takes us through her experience as an immigrant, how it led to the development of her eating disorder and the struggles she has faced as a Muslim woman learning to navigate her faith and her mental illness simultaneously. Adeline uses her writing, which has been featured in major publications such as Teen Vogue, to remove the stigma s...
2019-06-191h 03Unswtnd + UnfltrdDefeating Postpartum Depression with Faten AlbannaIn Episode 12, we are joined by Faten Albanna, a teacher, photographer and mother of two who had suffered from Postpartum Depression. PPD is the most common pregnancy complication, with one in seven mothers experiencing it, but it is still highly stigmatized. Faten uses her personal experience to break down some of those stigmas as she discusses her journey through new motherhood, the signs of depression she initially ignored and the reason having a support system is crucial. Enjoy and remember to follow us on Instagram: @unsweetenedandunfilteredFollow Faten on Instagram: @fayespov Mental Health Resource: https...
2019-06-121h 11Unswtnd + UnfltrdAllow us to Reintroduce Ourselves with Zaina and DounyaIn Episode 11, we celebrate our three month anniversary! Yes, three months despite what Zaina might have said - hey we never promised to be good at math lol! To commemorate this milestone we get a little personal by letting our walls down and by answering all of your questions regarding our personal lives. We talk about how we met and the ins and outs of the UNSWTND + UNFLTRD podcast. So please allow us to reintroduce ourselves - cue Jay Z’s voice!Enjoy and remember to follow us on Instagram: @unsweetenedandunfiltered
2019-06-051h 16Unswtnd + UnfltrdSpiritual Healing with Youssra KandilIn Episode 10, we sit down with Youssra Kamel Kandil, a motivational speaker whose videos have gone viral by capturing the hearts of thousands of Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Youssra shares her thoughts on maintaining patience during hardships, keeping our faith strong even post-Ramadan, the importance of giving back and so much more. If you’ve felt a disconnect this Ramadan, then this episode is a must listen. Enjoy and remember to follow us on Instagram: @unsweetenedandunfilteredFollow Youssra on Instagram: @YoussraKandil Follow Youssra on Facebook: @Youssraka77Follow Youssra on Youtube: @Youssraka
2019-05-2955 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdUsing our Platforms for Good with Isra ChakerIn Episode 9, we are joined by Isra Chaker, a civil rights activist, campaigns and advocacy expert, and public speaker. Isra walks us through her high school days and explains how the bullying she endured essentially influenced her decision to become an activist. We also talk about the Muslim Ban and how we can use our voices and platforms to fight for what's right, especially in the current political climate. If you're ready to feel enlightened, take a listen! Enjoy and remember to follow us on Instagram: @unsweetenedandunfilteredFollow Isra Chaker on Instagram: @israspeaksCheck out her...
2019-05-2248 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdBreaking the Silence Around Infertility with Faten OdehIn Episode 8, our guest Faten Odeh shares her story about her struggles with infertility. We learn about the IVF process and the effects it has had on her physical and mental health. Faten discusses the hardships she has dealt with in regards to conceiving and how she has found the silver lining throughout it all. We hope this episode leaves our listeners with more knowledge about infertility and how to better approach this topic with family and friends. Watch our IGTV sit down with Dr. Abeer Salhia where we talk all things fertility. Enjoy and remember to follow...
2019-05-081h 02Unswtnd + UnfltrdBeyond the Kitchen with Abeer NajjarIn Episode 7, we discuss food, self love, improving ourselves spiritually for Ramadan and everything in between with Abeer Najjar. Abeer is a self-taught chef, blogger and the founder of the Huda Supper Club. Through her Palestinian background and her childhood growing up on the south side of Chicago, Abeer is using food and her cooking to break down cultural barriers. Enjoy and remember to follow us on Instagram: @unsweetenedandunfilteredFollow Abeer on Instagram @abeernajjar_Check out Abeer’s blog: www.abeernajjar.com
2019-05-011h 38Unswtnd + UnfltrdOvercoming the Fear of Hijab with Nilly Naseer-FarooquiIn Episode 6, we are joined by the lovely Nilly, who is behind the Instagram page @wordsbehindasmile , to discuss all things hijab related! She shares her story behind the first moments in her life where she decided to put the headscarf on. Nilly gives us tips on how to take this next step and gives us insight on overcoming the fear of becoming a hijabi. We touch upon how one defines what the hijab means to them and we also dissect the struggles that hijabis + non hijabis face in today’s world. Enjoy and remember to follow us on I...
2019-04-2447 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdOvercoming Anxiety & Depression with Summer ShatatIn Episode 5, we get real with Summer Shatat, the owner of Anonymous Addictions. She is a daughter, mother, wife, entrepreneur and mental health advocate. Summer opens up about her struggles with anxiety, PTSD and depression that all stem from a traumatic event she went through at the age of 16. We discuss her healing process and road to recovery. We hope you use this episode as a wake up call to take control of your mental health and benefit from the advice given by our guest.Enjoy and remember to follow us on Instagram: @unsweetenedandunfiltered...
2019-04-171h 14Unswtnd + Unfltrd'Not Your Habibti' with Yasmeen MjalliIn Episode 4, we bring on Yasmeen Mjalli, the founder of BabyFist. She is the driving force behind the three words that have started a revolution, Not Your Habibti. We discuss the need to confront street harassment head on while also educating young girls about their bodies. Through Yasmeen’s various efforts, she has put together the Typewriter Project as well as the Menstrual Education Campaign. We also dissect the term feminist, what it means to be one as a woman of color and not allowing the West to continue narrating our stories.Enjoy and remember to follow us...
2019-04-1045 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdPreserving Our Identities with May El CalamawyIn Episode 3, we talk to May El Calamawy who stars in the upcoming American comedy series titled "Ramy” which is set to premiere on April 19th on Hulu. The show follows the life of a first-generation Egyptian American Muslim learning to balance his dual-identity. May plays Dena, Ramy’s younger sister, who struggles to live her life under her Egyptian family’s rules and all of the double standards that come with it. We dive into the importance of representation in the media, why more young Arabs need to create their own roles and the possibility of a spin-off.
2019-04-0241 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdFinding the Silver Lining with Lisa VoglIn Episode 2, we are joined by Lisa Vogl, who is an award winning international fashion photographer and founder of Verona Collection modest fashion brand. Vogl's Verona Collection is aimed at Muslim women and others who prefer to dress modestly. The collection launched last year online at Macy's, but now will be offered in the Dearborn store. We also discuss how to heal and find the silver lining through our hardships. Enjoy, and remember to follow us on Instagram @unsweetenedandunfilteredShop Verona :www.verona-collection.com
2019-03-2636 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdThe Dark Side of Our Culture with Etaf RumIn Episode 1, we are joined by Etaf Rum, author of the debut novel “A Woman is No Man”. We kick off our podcast with a discussion about marriage, divorce, domestic violence, etc. We dive into the notion of culture versus religion, how our community is in need of healing, as well as focusing on the worth of a woman and how we can find our voices even when society tries to silence us into obedience.Enjoy, and remember to follow us on Instagram @unsweetenedandunfilteredBuy "A Woman is No Man" at Etafrum.com Let's Connect: conta...
2019-03-1937 minUnswtnd + UnfltrdUnswtnd + Unfltrd: It's Really Happening!Welcome to the Introduction Episode of the "Unsweetened & Unfiltered" podcast. Hosts, Zaina and Dounya, are so excited to start this new venture! They discuss the need for this initiative and what to expect in the upcoming episodes. Get to know them and their vision for this podcast.Enjoy and remember to follow them on Instagram @unsweetenedandunfiltered .
2019-03-0617 min