Before we dive in — a personal request 🙏If this story adds value, please subscribe, hit the bell, like, comment, and share.
Your support helps us grow the channel and bring on even bigger guests.In this episode, I sit down with Yasar Ahmad, a Leadership Coach, Career Advisor, and VP of HR, to discuss what truly defines success in the modern workplace.
We explore the psychology of hiring, the difference between performance and perception, and how to build influence without losing authenticity.
From navigating multi-stage interviews to understanding Robert Greene’s Law #1: Never Outshine the Master, this episode is a masterclass in self-awareness, strategy, and career growth.
Inside the conversation we cover:
– How to balance gut instinct and fact-checking in hiring
– Behavioral interview techniques to reveal mindset
– The hidden power of competitiveness and passion
– Performance vs perception: who really gets promoted
– Multi-stage interviews and culture fit tests
– Writing job descriptions that inspire clarity and ownership
– Salary psychology and motivation: The 3+1 Effect
– Building influence through exposure, values, and networking
– The role of company values in leadership and decision making
– Robert Greene’s timeless lesson: Never Outshine the Master
Timestamps
00:01:54 – Navigating Hiring: Balancing Gut Instinct and Fact Checking
00:03:01 – Interview Strategy: Using Behavioral Questions to Reveal Mindset
00:05:12 – Hiring Senior Executives: Value of Passions Outside Work and Competitiveness
00:08:05 – Workplace Success: Performance vs. Perception and Exposure
00:09:47 – Multi-Stage Interviews: Assessing Values, Approach, and Culture Fit
00:11:24 – Importance of Clear Job Descriptions and To-Do/To-Not-Do Lists
00:14:22 – Psychological Impact of Salary Structures: The 3+1 Effect
00:20:16 – Building Influence at Work: Performance, Perception, and Networking
00:24:25 – Company Values as Navigational Tools for Hiring and Decision Making
01:03:13 – Robert Greene’s Law #1: Never Outshine the Master at Work
Bismillah, Before we dive in, a personal request;
If this story touches you, please subscribe, hit the bell, like, comment, and share. Your support helps us grow the channel and bring on even bigger guests.
In this episode with Aysha Mercedes, a woman whose journey from near-death and illness to Islam will leave you speechless.
She opens up about growing up with a schizophrenic father, facing the chaos of street life, and how rappers were the first to introduce her to Islam. From trauma to transformation, this is a story of struggle, faith, and humility, and the power of Allah’s mercy to rewrite any life.
Inside the conversation we cover:
– Surviving a near-death experience and what it taught her about Allah
– Living with a schizophrenic father and broken family dynamics
– Street life, trouble, and seeking belonging
– Rappers as unexpected da’wah voices
– The challenges and loneliness of being a new Muslim
– Her father’s shocking reversion to Islam after being stabbed
– The lack of support for reverts in our communities
– Balancing faith, wealth, and humility after finding purpose
Timestamps
00:00:00 – Near-Death Revelation
00:02:11 – Battling a Rare Illness
00:06:09 – Life with a Schizophrenic Father
00:07:57 – Street Life & Trouble
00:09:33 – Rappers Introduce Islam
00:12:19 – Struggles of a New Muslim
00:16:07 – Father Stabbed, Then Reverts
00:20:28 – Lack of Support for Reverts
00:27:02 – Faith, Wealth & Identity
00:53:03 – Arrogance vs Humility
#AyshaMercedes #RevertStory #Islam #FaithJourney #StreetLifeToIslam #BritishMuslimVoices #SideBySidePodcast #KaziRahman #MuslimPodcast #Transformation #SpiritualHealing #RevertSupport #WomenInIslam #FaithAndHealing #IslamicInspiration
Bismillah,
Before we dive in — a personal request 🙏
If this story moves you, please subscribe, hit the bell, like, comment, and share. Your support helps us grow the channel and bring on even bigger guests for conversations like this.
In this episode, I sit down with Cllr Rukhsana Ismail, the Mayor of Rotherham, as she opens up for the first time about her journey, the challenges of online hate, and what it means to lead as a proud British Muslim woman. From criticism of her language to her viral “Proud British Muslim” video, she shares the raw truth about mistakes, resilience, faith, and finding peace under pressure.
Inside the conversation we cover:
– Dealing with online abuse and criticism
– Islam’s role in leadership and decision-making
– Overcoming personal and professional challenges
– Cultural vs religious practices and their clash in public life
– Finding inner peace while serving as Mayor
– Encouragement for struggling sisters in the community
Timestamps
00:00:00 – Emotional Mayor Announcement
00:02:19 – Welcome and Introduction
00:03:56 – Dealing with Online Abuse
00:11:18 – Responding to Language Criticism
00:13:02 – Making Proud British Muslim Video
00:18:07 – Islam’s Role in Leadership
00:22:34 – Overcoming Life Challenges
00:25:36 – Admitting Mistakes in Leadership
00:32:03 – Cultural vs Religious Practices
00:39:04 – Finding Inner Peace
00:46:12 – Helping Others and Saying No
01:11:03 – Encouragement for Struggling Sisters
#KaziShafiqurRahman #SideBySidePodcast #FirnasAirways #BritishMuslimEntrepreneur #MuslimPodcast #BusinessPodcastUK #BritishBangladeshiSuccessStory #AirlineStartupStory #FreshlyGrounded #BritishMuslimVoices #BritishBusinessDocumentary #HowToStartAnAirlineKazi #BuddiesLondon #Sunnamusk #KSRBuddies #BuddiesLondon #MuslimEntrepreneur #BoycottBrands #MiddleEastCrisis #MayorOfRotherham #CllrRukhsanaIsmail #Hijabi #UKPolitics #MuslimMayor #MuslimWomen
Before we dive in, a personal request 🙏
If this story adds value, please subscribe, hit the bell, like, comment, and share. Your support helps us grow the channel and bring on even bigger guests.
In this episode, I sit down with Stairway2Freedom, The Saviour (Josh) to talk about confronting pro-Israel marchers, facing online harassment, and the rising tide of anti-Muslim hate in the UK. We discuss the far-right, racism, and flag symbolism, and why building bridges across faiths is the only way forward.
Inside the conversation we cover:
– Josh’s background and activism journey
– Facing online harassment and intimidation
– Confronting pro-Israel marchers on the streets
– The UK’s social and political challenges today
– Tommy Robinson, far-right threats & flag politics
– Racism, division, and anti-Muslim hate
– The need for unity across faiths
– Dialogue, bridge-building, and changing minds
– Who really influences UK foreign policy
– Social media growth, censorship, and street wisdom
Timestamps
00:01:21 – Introduction & Meeting Josh
00:02:55 – Josh’s Background & Activism
00:04:10 – Facing Online Harassment
00:05:10 – Confronting Pro-Israel Marchers
00:08:10 – UK’s Social & Political Challenges
00:11:10 – Views on Tommy Robinson & Far-Right Figures
00:12:50 – Racism & Flag Symbolism in the UK
00:14:20 – The Need for Unity Across Faiths
00:18:40 – Challenges of Changing Minds
00:22:40 – Engaging in Dialogue & Building Bridges
00:25:10 – What It Takes for UK to Improve
00:41:10 – Influence Behind UK’s Foreign Policy
00:45:50 – Social Media Growth & Censorship
00:53:40 – Unexpected Wisdom from the Streets
#Stairway2Freedom #TheSaviour #AntiMuslimHate #FarRight #ProIsraelMarchers #Josh #Activism #Unity #ProPalestine #UKPolitics #FaithAndUnity #SideBySidePodcast #KaziRahman
Before we dive in — a personal request 🙏
If this story adds value, please subscribe, hit the bell, like, comment, and share with others. Your support helps us grow and bring even bigger guests to the channel.
In this episode, I sit down with Areeb Siddiqui, founder of Kestrl and host of Muslim Money Talk Podcast. From starting at rock bottom to leading one of the UK’s most talked-about halal finance startups, Areeb shares how he’s trying to change the way Muslims think about money, wealth, and opportunity.
Inside the conversation we cover:
– Kestrl’s dual business model and pivot into B2B revenue
– The poverty challenge in UK Muslim communities
– Scarcity vs abundance mindset in building wealth
– Vision beyond Islamic banking and trust issues in finance
– Innovative Sharia-compliant features, gold and crypto
– Raising capital, customer acquisition, and scaling fintech
– Founder challenges, growth pains, and market opportunity
Timestamps
00:00:00 – Starting from Rock Bottom
00:04:00 – Kestrl’s Dual Business Model
00:08:00 – Poverty Challenge in UK Muslims
00:11:00 – Scarcity vs Abundance Mindset
00:13:00 – Innovations from Community Events
00:15:00 – Vision Beyond Islamic Banking
00:17:00 – Trust Issues in Islamic Finance
00:20:00 – Pivoting to B2B Revenue
00:24:00 – Founder Challenges and Growth Pains
00:30:00 – Levels of Islamic Finance Development
00:33:00 – Innovative Sharia-Compliant Features
00:38:00 – Competitive Edge: Gold and Crypto
00:44:00 – Investment Opportunity and Market Potential
00:50:00 – Customer Acquisition Strategy
#AreebSiddiqui #Kestrl #MuslimMoneyTalk #HalalFinance #FaithDrivenBusiness #Fintech #MuslimEntrepreneurs #SideBySidePodcast #KaziRahman
Bismillah and Before we dive in, a personal request…
Your support helps us grow the channel and bring on even bigger guests.
If this story moves you, please subscribe, turn on the bell, like, comment, and share this episode.
In this episode, I sit down with Aykiz Shah, founder of Salaam Cola, to unpack her extraordinary journey. From rejecting a £108 million offer to taking a boycott-born brand global, all while navigating life as a niqaabi, mother of three, and wife.
Aykiz shares a story of courage, conviction, and vision.
Inside the conversation we cover:
– Turning down a £108m offer and the pushback that followed
– The origins of Salaam Cola and family boycott principles
– Boycotting root causes and building real alternatives
– Overcoming backlash while staying true to values
– Unity within the Ummah and overcoming division
– Charity, legacy, and global projects from schools to orphanages
– Challenges as a female founder and trademark battles
– Advice for sisters and the importance of family support
00:00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome – Aykiz Shah – Salaam Cola
00:02:13 – Turning Down the £108 Million Offer and Facing Pushback
00:07:00 – Origins of Salaam Cola and Family Boycott Principles
00:09:30 – Boycotting Root Causes and Creating Alternatives
00:11:20 – Overcoming Backlash and Staying True to Values
00:15:00 – Unity Within the Ummah and Overcoming Division
00:17:30 – Charity Work, Legacy, and Impact Projects
00:24:30 – Global Projects: Schools, Orphanages, and More
00:50:00 – Challenges as a Female Founder and Trademark Battles
01:16:00 – Advice for Sisters and Importance of Family Support
#KaziShafiqurRahman #KSR #SideBySidePodcast #FirnasAirways #BritishMuslimEntrepreneur #MuslimPodcast #BusinessPodcastUK #BritishBangladeshiSuccessStory #AirlineStartupStory #Ceocast #FreshlyGrounded #BritishMuslimVoices #BritishBusinessDocumentary #HowToStartAnAirlineKazi #BuddiesLondon #Sunnamusk #KSRBuddies #BuddiesLondon #AykizShah #SalaamCola #MuslimEntrepreneur #MumPreneur #Niqaabi #BusinessWoman #WomenInIslam #BoycottBrands #MiddleEastCrisis #HalalCapitalism
Bismillah,
Before we dive in, a personal request 🙏
If you’ve been enjoying these conversations, please subscribe, turn the notification bell on, like, comment, and share this episode with others. Every bit of support helps us grow the channel and bring on even bigger guests for you.
In this episode, we sit down with BigFish TV on his first ever podcast appearance to talk about identity, belonging, and the double-edged sword of being visible in the community. From growing up Bengali and cultural shifts, to handling backlash, racism, and social media pressure. BigFish TV shares his story with honesty and grit.
We also explore his business ventures, from vape shops to food businesses, his lessons in branding, networking, and perseverance, and the launch of PFC as a family legacy project.
Inside the conversation we cover:
– Likability vs backlash and building thick skin
– Growing up Bengali and cultural identity
– Racism, dialogue, and bridging divides
– From vape shops to multiple ventures
– PFC’s launch and family legacy
– The realities of food business, reviews, and branding
– Lessons on consistency, setbacks, and perseverance
Timestamps
00:00:00 – Likability vs. Backlash: The Double-Edged Sword
00:03:41 – Growing Up Bengali: Language and Culture Shifts
00:05:21 – Technology’s Impact on Family Respect
00:07:26 – Speaking Out: Courage and Controversy
00:11:58 – Britannia Hotel: Bridging Divides in Tense Areas
00:16:00 – Understanding ‘The Other Side’
00:21:12 – Identity, Belonging, and Ownership of This Country
00:23:55 – Progress in Education and Business
00:25:34 – Challenges of Integration and Outreach
00:28:54 – Responding to Racism with Dialogue
00:30:21 – Inspirations from the Prophet’s Example
00:31:53 – Handling Negativity: Building Thick Skin
00:34:09 – From Vape Shop to Diverse Ventures
00:35:31 – Scar’s Story: From Streets to Entrepreneurship
00:37:24 – Changing Mindsets and New Opportunities
00:38:54 – PFC Launch: Family Legacy and Ambitions
00:42:58 – Social Media Success vs. Real Hard Work
00:44:16 – Managing Multiple Businesses and Teams
00:46:18 – Food Business: Balancing Quality and Foot Traffic
00:49:59 – Owning Delivery: The Push for Independence
00:52:00 – Branding Challenges and Rebranding Journey
00:54:17 – Networking and Growth Mindsets
00:55:58 – From NHS Admin to Entrepreneurial Success
00:57:31 – A Message to Youth: Patience and Perseverance
01:00:34 – Business Setbacks and Investments
01:01:31 – Quickfire: Cars, Food, and Social Media Choices
01:04:01 – The Impact of Reviews on Food Businesses
01:05:22 – The Value of Consistent Hard Work
01:06:16 – Final Blessings: Protecting Against Negativity
#BigFishTV #PFC #BritishBangladeshi #BusinessPodcastUK #SideBySidePodcast #KaziRahman #EntrepreneurJourney #MuslimPodcast
From bricklaying to sweet making, from a single shop in Green Street during recession to scaling over 250 stores and floating Cake Box on the London Stock Exchange & Buying Ambala, Sukh Chamdal’s story is as bold as it is inspiring.
Inside this episode we cover:
– The family migration story that shaped him
– The birth of the egg-free cake idea
– Opening the first Cake Box during a recession
– How customer demand drove franchising success
– Balancing family and business leadership
– Building a team and protecting brand reputation
– Acquiring Ambala and preserving its legacy
– The challenges of going PLC on the London Stock Exchange
– Cake Box’s global vision for the future
Timestamps
00:02:00 - Family Migration Story: From Bricklaying to Sweet Making
00:05:20 - Childhood in an Immigrant Household
00:07:30 - Early Lessons in Business and Responsibility
00:09:45 - Birth of the Egg-Free Cake Idea
00:12:00 - First Shop in Green Street During Recession
00:14:30 - Discovering Franchising and First Franchisee
00:18:00 - Expanding the Business Through Customer Demand
00:21:20 - The Road to Becoming a PLC on London Stock Exchange
00:25:40 - Balancing Family and Business in Leadership
00:29:10 - Building a Strong Team & Hiring Lessons
00:33:00 - Work Ethics, Smiling, and Positivity in Business
00:37:20 - Handling Controversy & Protecting Brand Reputation
00:40:50 - Scaling to 250+ Stores and International Expansion
00:44:00 - Acquiring Ambala and Preserving Legacy
00:48:10 - Why Cake Box Stays Out of Shopping Malls
00:51:30 - Future Growth Plans: Doubling Stores Nationwide
00:55:20 - Customer Loyalty, Training & Franchising System
01:00:00 - Sustainability and Reducing Plastic Use
01:05:10 - Governance, IPO Challenges, and Shareholder Trust
01:11:00 - Community Impact, Charity, and Giving Back
01:18:20 - Vision Ahead: Global Expansion & Next Chapters
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Between 2016 and 2018, filmmaker Larry Walford followed my journey as I set out to do the impossible, launch Firnas Airways, a Shariah-compliant airline built from the ground up. The result was a Channel 4 documentary that captured not just the dream, but the struggle of building an airline as a young British Bangladeshi entrepreneur.
In this conversation, we revisit that story:
– Why Larry chose to make the documentary
– The highs and lows of the Firnas journey, which began in 2014
– The reality of risk, rejection, and resilience in aviation
– How it all came to a grinding halt in March 2020, during the UK Covid lockdown
This isn’t just a look back at a failed airline, it’s about the lessons, the scars, and the drive to keep building despite the setbacks.
Send Money to Bangladesh with ZERO Fees!
Taptap Send makes it easier to support loved ones back home — with no transfer fees and a £20 bonus just for you.
✅ Download the app here:
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💬 Enter promo code KSR when prompted.
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#SideBySidePodcast #KaziRahman #KSR #MuslimPodcast #BusinessPodcastUK #BritishMuslimVoices #EntrepreneurPodcast #InspiringConversations #SuccessStories #FaithAndBusiness #LarryWalford #FirnasAirways #Channel4Documentary #AviationStartup #StartupJourney #BritishBangladeshi #EntrepreneurJourney #AviationIndustry #CovidLockdown #UKEntrepreneurs
Larry Walford Trailer 00:00
Catching Up 02:44
How To Start an Airline, Firnas & Abdul 04:03
Who Is Larry Walford? 22:08
What does the audience want today? Is Kazi a celebrity? 24:14
Has it changed Kazi’s life? 25:35
Larry’s life now 30:47
Ai - resist or absorb? 41:45
Muslim’s and BAME communities in the media 48:37
Risk and trust in documentaries 58:42
Say yes to people, has being a celebrity changed KSR? 1:03:47
What does it take to innovate in the halal food space, and still keep prices fair?In this thought-provoking conversation, Saima Duhare, founder of It’s Halal, joins me to debate fast food vs healthy food pricing, the role of Muslim communities in innovation, and what we can learn from big players like HelloFresh. She shares her journey from culture shock and changing family eating habits to building a brand that blends ethics, taste, and business sense.We also get into the real challenges of securing investors for halal ventures, and why the “it’s halal” label isn’t always enough.
Topics include:– The price debate: fast food vs healthy food– Why Muslim innovation matters– Investor hurdles in halal products– Lessons from global brands– Saima’s personal story of culture shock and changeTimestamps:00:00 – Trailer01:00 – Intro03:40 – Price Debate: Fast Food vs Healthy Food14:00 – Comparing with Brands18:45 – Saima’s Backstory: Culture Shock & Family Habits29:00 – Role of Muslim Community in Food Innovation39:25 – Investor Challenges in Halal Innovation44:20 – Learning from HelloFresh49:20 – “It’s Halal” Backstory58:25 – Muslim Innovation1:05:10 – Final Reflections1:40:44 – Outro💸 SPONSOR MESSAGE – Send Money to Bangladesh with ZERO Fees!Taptap Send makes it easier to support loved ones back home — with no transfer fees and a £20 bonus just for you.✅ Download the app using this link:👉 https://taptapsend.one…💬 When prompted to “Add promo code,” enter KSR and press ‘Enter’.Taptap Send UK Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900842).#SaimaDuhare #ItsHalal #MuslimInnovation #HalalFood #HealthyEating #HalalBusiness #HalalInnovation #FoodEntrepreneur #BusinessPodcastUK #KaziRahman #SideBySidePodcast #HalalStartup #TaptapSend #BangladeshiEntrepreneur #BritishMuslimVoices
Who is Mr Hamlets, and why is he talking about me?In this no-holds-barred episode, Kazi Shafiqur Rahman responds directly to the comments, the claims, and the gossip.From SM and Firnas Airways to Buddies London and questions about mentorship, nothing is left off the table.This is straight talk. No PR. No filters.Inside this episode:– Who is Mr Hamlets?– Why was H removed from SM?– Firnas, and whether investors are getting paid back– Buddies London: one hit wonder or something bigger?– Tarik rumour and business disputes– Am I cut out to be a mentor?– How public comments hit harder than you think– My honest view on Mr Hamlets and the wider communityBehind the headlines and rumours, there’s still a person taking the hits, carrying the weight, and showing up anyway.Timestamps:00:00 – Trailer, Mr Hamlets Response01:16 – Who is Mr Hamlets?02:34 – Firnas & Are Investors Getting Paid Back20:22 – Buddies – One Hit Wonder, Tarik Rumour?29:44 – Is KSR Cut Out to Be a Mentor? The Effect of Comments on KSR36:50 – Summary of Mr Hamlets and the Community45:50 – Ending Remarks#MrHamlets #KaziShafiqurRahman #SM #FirnasAirways #BuddiesLondon #BusinessTruths #Mentorship #CommunityTalk #BritishBangladeshi #EntrepreneurshipUK
What does it mean to heal, not just in mind or spirit, but as a whole human being?
In this moving conversation, Shaykh Dr. Asim Yusuf shares insights from a life spent at the crossroads of sacred knowledge and psychological care.
We speak about faith through hardship, the tension between emotion and belief, the culture wars between Muslims, and why some questions aren’t meant to be answered just understood.
Topics include:
– Trusting Allah when life doesn’t go to plan
– The difference between knowing the truth and living it
– Saints, intercession & spiritual confusion
– The Shaykh’s own story of becoming both a doctor and a scholar
– Why he stopped performing nasheeds — and what that taught him
This episode is a quiet reminder that healing isn’t always about fixing. Sometimes it’s about surrendering.
00:00 – Introduction: Why does Allah describe life as a journey?
03:50 – When Plans Fail: Trusting Allah’s Qadr
09:20 – Developing Sabr and Shukr in Real Life
14:45 – Heart vs Mind: Knowing vs Living the Truth
21:00 – The Shaykh’s Journey: Medicine and Sacred Knowledge
29:35 – Deobandi vs Barelvi: Sect, Culture, and Emotion
38:10 – Saints, Graves & the Question of Intercession
46:50 – Is Islam Over-Intellectualised Today?
54:25 – Making Faith Relevant in a Secular Age
01:02:40 – When Emotions Get in the Way of Belief
01:10:15 – Finding Your Own Path to Allah
01:17:45 – The Problem with Proving Everything
01:23:10 – Why Shaykh Asim No Longer Performs Nasheeds
01:28:00 – Final Reflections: Trust, Journey & Divine Wisdom
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#ShaykhAsimYusuf #IslamAndPsychology #SpiritualHealing #FaithJourney #DeobandiBarelvi #IslamicMentalHealth #SideBySidePodcast #KaziRahman #TaptapSend #TrustInAllah #Sabr #Shukr #BritishMuslimVoices
From Construction sites to Masjid, from England to Morocco, Dowie’s journey to Islam is anything but ordinary.
In this powerful and reflective episode, Dowie shares how he embraced Islam, how his own father followed him into the faith, and why he believes Muslim men must rise, not just spiritually, but in discipline, responsibility, and purpose.
As a revert, mentor, and advocate for authentic Islamic masculinity, Dowie has been at the forefront of Dawah and men’s development in the UK and beyond.
What we explore:
– His Shahada and life in Morocco
– What happened when he told his family
– His father’s unexpected conversion
– How to share Islam with non-Muslims without pressure
– The role of discipline in faith
– Why Muslim men need to lead with balance and impact
This episode isn’t just about becoming Muslim, it’s about becoming better.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Dowie’s Journey to Islam
02:08 – Life in Morocco and Early Muslim Years
03:48 – Revert Story and Shahada
08:37 – Family Reactions and Father’s Conversion
12:28 – Sharing Islam with Non-Muslims
29:22 – Discipline and Balance in Faith
37:22 – Men’s Leadership and Community Productivity
SPONSOR MESSAGE – Send Money to Bangladesh with ZERO Fees!
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Taptap Send UK Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900842).
From prison cells to premium dining, this is the story of transformation you didn’t see coming.In this powerful episode of the Side by Side Podcast, Kazi Shafiqur Rahman sits down with Naz Choudry, founder of Coco Restaurants, to unpack the raw journey of a man who grew up behind bars and rebuilt his life through faith, failure, anda entrepreneurship.What we cover:– Growing up in the prison system– Finding Islam and the mindset shift behind bars– The painful reality of reintegration and family dynamics– Building a business while dodging temptation– Choosing halal over haram, even when it’s harder– Staying grounded, giving back, and guiding the next generationThis isn’t just an interview. It’s a blueprint for change.Timestamps:00:00 – Naz Choudry Introduction02:00 – Growing Up Inside: Childhood Behind Bars10:15 – Islam in Prison: Turning Point Through Faith17:40 – Reconnecting with Family After Release25:55 – The Struggle to Start Over: Life Outside33:10 – The Business Dream: Halal vs Haram Choices41:25 – Dealing with Temptation and the Street Life50:30 – Community, Purpose, and Staying Grounded01:00:05 – Lessons from Failure and Faith in Rizq01:09:40 – Helping Youth and Giving Back01:21:30 – Vision for the Future: Ummah, Business, and BeyondSPONSOR MESSAGE – Send Money to Bangladesh with ZERO Fees!Taptap Send makes it easier to support loved ones back home — with no transfer fees and a £20 bonus just for you.✅ Download the app using this link:👉 https://taptapsend.one…💬 When prompted to “Add promo code,” enter KSR and press ‘Enter’.Taptap Send UK Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900842).#SideBySidePodcast #NazChoudry #PrisonToPurpose #CocoRestaurants #FaithAndBusiness #MuslimEntrepreneur #HalalHustle #KaziRahman #StreetToSuccess #IslamicMindset #Rizq #Bengali #BritishMuslimVoices
I’m still in disbelief that I host a podcast. Week after week.
Alhamdulillah, we’ve just hit Episode 100 of the Side by Side Podcast, and I want to pause for a moment to say… Thank You. Thank You for getting Side by Side this far.
I’m not an educated person. I barely scraped a B in GCSE English.I’m not naturally confident.
And I’m definitely not a media professional.
But I am someone who’s OK with being uncomfortable.
Someone who doesn’t shy away from tough conversations.
And someone who’s always trying to learn and grow.
This podcast has been one of the most uncomfortable, humbling, and beautiful journeys I’ve ever taken.
Every bit of encouragement, every bit of criticism, even the brutal kind, has shaped me.
And I’m still learning.For our 100th episode, I wanted to do something meaningful.
Something that’s been on my list from day one.
So we finally brought together a panel to discuss one of the most complex and sensitive topics in the Muslim community: Is Halal Mortgage Really Halal?
With me in this long-overdue conversation are:
🧠 Mufti Abdul Kadir Barkatulla – Islamic finance scholar
🏦 Sagheer Malik – Halal mortgage provider and industry voice
💬 Saira Hayati – a returning guest who raises bold questions
00:04 Historical Context of Islamic Finance in UK
00:07 Types of Islamic Home Finance
00:30 Pricing and Market Challenges
01:15 Future Developments and Solutions
No fluff. No PR answers. Just real questions and genuine effort to seek clarity.
I hope this helps you think deeper, ask better questions, and make more informed decisions, whether you agree or disagree.
Thank you for walking this journey with me.– Kazi Shafiqur Rahman
P.S: Apologies in advance for any technical issues in this episode if there are any!
💸 SPONSOR MESSAGE – Send Money to Bangladesh with ZERO Fees!
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✅ To claim your bonus:
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He’s back, and this time, it’s personal.
In Episode 99, Mahee Jalil returns to the Side by Side Podcast with Kazi Shafiqur Rahman for a fearless conversation that answers some of your burning questions from last episode with Mahee!
What we unpack:
It’s bold. It’s controversial. And it’s packed with uncomfortable truths.
No filters. No favours. Just facts.
00:00 – Trailer
01:05 – The East London Mosque Scandal: Where Did the Millions Go?
12:24 – How Mahee Manages Risk (Despite His History)
17:00 – Firing People, Retaining Loyalty: Mahee’s Staff Strategy
18:52 – Is Channel S Just Mahee’s Guard Dog?
22:50 – Future of Bangladesh & Why He does not Back Prof. Muhammad Yunus
25:50 – The First Solution Scandal Explained
32:43 – Mahee’s Secret Black Book Revealed
33:55 – Palestinian Dates: Boycott, Fair Trade & Controversy
36:39 – Iran’s Global Grip: What’s Really Going On?
51:00 – Mahee’s Kidnapping: The Real Story
55:17 – Do Boycotts Actually Work?
1:10:15 – Buying Property in Cash & Final Reflections
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🎧 Watch, share, and decide for yourself.
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💻 Website: https://kazirahman.co.uk/ & https://sidebysidepodcast.com/
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#SideBySidePodcast #MaheeJalil #EastLondonMosque #Iran #Bangladesh #Scandal #MuslimVoices #KaziRahman #Accountability
Send Money to Bangladesh with Zero Fees!Use promo code “KSR” and get a £20 bonus! (FOR FIRST TIME USERS ONLY)✅ To claim your bonus, download the Taptap Send app using this link:https://taptapsend.one...When prompted to “Add promo code,” enter “KSR” and press ‘Enter’.*Taptap Send UK Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011, Firm Reference Number 900842, for the issuing of electronic money.Join Kazi Shafiqur Rahman as he sits down with Humza Yousaf — former First Minister of Scotland and the first Muslim to lead a Western democracy.In this episode, Humza opens up about life in politics, facing backlash from his own community, why he was advised not to speak out on Gaza, and the personal reasons behind stepping away from power.He also shares reflections on faith, identity, public pressure, and what it really takes to lead with conviction in today’s world. 00:01:56 - Introduction of Humza Yousaf00:04:55 - Global Conflicts and Muslim Leadership00:08:06 - Political Systems and Lobbying Power00:11:07 - LGBTQ, Faith, and Minority Rights00:21:17 - Exiting Politics and Personal Legacy00:25:00 - Identity, Racism, and Structural Barriers00:29:47 - Merit vs. Diversity in Leadership00:33:00 - Personality vs Party Politics00:34:43 - Coalition Challenges & Resignation00:36:05 - Controversies and Criticism in Office00:39:04 - Real Policy Impact & Achievements00:40:10 - Final Reflection and Legacy#podcast #london #ukpodcast #business #entrepreneur 🔗 Useful Links: https://bit.ly/41ntoEO💻 Website: https://kazirahman.co.uk/Follow KSR ⬇️🔘 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3v7wq3K🔘 Instagram: https://bit.ly/46Wf4Ed🔘 TikTok: https://bit.ly/4aqeQIr🔘 Twitter: https://bit.ly/3tiC7eQ🔘 Facebook: https://bit.ly/41lFePLd
Send Money to Bangladesh with Zero Fees!Use promo code “KSR” and get a £20 bonus! (FOR FIRST TIME USERS ONLY)✅ To claim your bonus, download the Taptap Send app using this link:https://taptapsend.onelink.me/Lrab/KSRWhen prompted to “Add promo code,” enter “KSR” and press ‘Enter’.*Taptap Send UK Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011, Firm Reference Number 900842, for the issuing of electronic money.Mustafa Zaman hit rock bottom. His first company failed. He got divorced. Everyone gave up on him.With 37,000 Taka in his account (less than £300), he sold his apartment and started again, this time, to build something nobody thought was possible: Bangladesh’s first electric car company for ride-share drivers.In this episode, we talk about failure, faith, and what it means to believe in something so deeply, you’re willing to give up everything for it.He shares how he built 57 cars by hand, won a $1 million sustainability prize, and why he still calls himself a “cactus character”, built to survive any terrain.#podcast #london #ukpodcast #business #entrepreneur 🔗 Useful Links: https://bit.ly/41ntoEO💻 Website: https://kazirahman.co.uk/Follow KSR ⬇️🔘 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3v7wq3K🔘 Instagram: https://bit.ly/46Wf4Ed🔘 TikTok: https://bit.ly/4aqeQIr🔘 Twitter: https://bit.ly/3tiC7eQ🔘 Facebook: https://bit.ly/41lFePLd
Send Money to Bangladesh with Zero Fees!Use promo code “KSR” and get a £20 bonus! (FOR FIRST TIME USERS ONLY)✅ To claim your bonus, download the Taptap Send app using this link:https://taptapsend.onelink.me/Lrab/KSRWhen prompted to “Add promo code,” enter “KSR” and press ‘Enter’.*Taptap Send UK Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011, Firm Reference Number 900842, for the issuing of electronic money.00:00 Trailer 02:00 Why come back to Bangladesh? Being a refugee and Sayd’s Father05:14 Sayd’s Father in Rakkhi Bahini, Bangladesh Independence 13:32 Bangladesh Future26:47 Dr Sayd’s Career Journey to Head of Ai in Dubai53:01 Bangladesh vs Dubai, why Biman can’t achieve what Emirates have.1:00:00 About Dr Sayd now, Leadership and Drive1:06:05 Fear, quickfire questions and closing thoughts on GodIn this episode, Dr. Sayd Farooq shares how he fled Bangladesh at 16 after his father, who helped replace Sheikh Mujib’s regime, was imprisoned. He opens up about political exile, rebuilding from scratch in Australia, and eventually helping shape Dubai’s innovation ecosystem and the global Islamic economy.We talk about Bangladesh’s untapped potential, the missing ingredient in leadership, and what it really takes to build a future-ready nation. This isn’t just history, it’s strategy, legacy, and vision.For anyone thinking deeply about impact, responsibility, and the future of Muslim leadership, this one’s essential.#podcast #london #ukpodcast #business #entrepreneur 🔗 Useful Links: https://bit.ly/41ntoEO💻 Website: https://kazirahman.co.uk/Follow KSR ⬇️🔘 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3v7wq3K🔘 Instagram: https://bit.ly/46Wf4Ed
Send Money to Bangladesh with Zero Fees!Use promo code “KSR” and get a £20 bonus! (FOR FIRST TIME USERS ONLY)✅ To claim your bonus, download the Taptap Send app using this link:https://taptapsend.onelink.me/Lrab/KSRWhen prompted to “Add promo code,” enter “KSR” and press ‘Enter’.*Taptap Send UK Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011, Firm Reference Number 900842, for the issuing of electronic money.00:00 – Intro01:48 – The moment Helal starts telling his side03:02 – Growing up around racism in 70s East London06:40 – His journey into politics and earning trust09:25 – Representing a Muslim community in a hostile system12:55 – The Imam of Mecca rumour: what actually happened15:20 – The pressure of public image and misinformation17:43 – “100 imams signed a statement against me”21:10 – The mosques told people not to vote for him24:30 – Confronted in public: how the rumour spread26:35 – How it felt to lose everything overnight30:02 – What he regrets — and what he stands by32:40 – Why younger leaders stay silent35:20 – Lessons on courage and community loyalty38:10 – “They erased me from the story”39:25 – His message to those who turned on him40:50 – What legacy means after public rejection41:55 – Final thoughts: healing, loss, and moving forwardWhat do you do when the same mosques you helped build… turn their back on you?In this episode, we sit down with Helal Abbas — a man who spent his life serving his community, becoming the Mayor and Council Leader of Tower Hamlets. He shares the raw and painful story of how rumours, mosque politics, and pressure from within led to his public downfall.He talks about the early days — fighting racists in the streets in the 70s, organising communities, building trust. And then, just as quickly, how it all started to fall apart. A rumour spreads. 100 imams sign a statement against him. Mosques tell people not to vote. And the support he spent decades building disappears almost overnight.This conversation is about more than politics. It’s about belonging, betrayal, and what happens when your own community turns on you.#podcast #london #ukpodcast #business #entrepreneur 🔗 Useful Links: https://bit.ly/41ntoEO💻 Website: https://kazirahman.co.uk/Follow KSR ⬇️🔘 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3v7wq3K🔘 Instagram: https://bit.ly/46Wf4Ed🔘 TikTok: https://bit.ly/4aqeQIr🔘 Twitter: https://bit.ly/3tiC7eQ🔘 Facebook: https://bit.ly/41lFePLd