Explore every episode of the podcast Muslimah

In the second part of our curly hair girl series, we read all of our listeners submitted stories!! From nicknames, to receding hairlines, to being told men wouldn’t like our hair type, it is truly an adventure. We also go through tips and tricks to take care of our hair and keep it healthy even in stressful times.

In the first part of this two-part episode, Sana and I take a deep dive through our childhood experiences of having curly, “nontraditional” hair in a south asian household. From being told to get keratin treatments, to having our hair constantly braided all the time so it wouldn’t look “messy”, and having our beauty constantly compared to our mothers and sisters, there is a lot to talk about! We also talk about keeping our hair healthy in times of stress, different types of brushing techniques for curly hair, hair oil being our friend, south asian beauty standards, and more! 

In the second part of this episode, which will be released next week, we will be reading audience entries! Many of you submitted curly girl hair stories, and we will be reading and reacting to them, as well as adding our own takes. Make sure to stay tuned!

Adulting is and can be boring sometimes, and making meaningful memories can feel so much harder to do than it was in college. However, it is still possible to maintain healthy friendships, have fun, and make memories while also working a 9-5! It may require some intentionality, but it is definitely possible. In this episode, I talk about 4 tips that will help you center happiness and create meaning in everyday life, even in post grad!

My sister Sara and I reflect on Muslim girl influencer culture, all the good and bad! Social media has expanded our ability to showcase who we are as Muslim women, but it has also caused a “brain rot”, causing us to lose parts of our individuality and uniqueness as Muslim women. We reflect on some personal examples of this “Muslim girl brain rot” and how we can actively try not to fall for the over-glamorization of clean girl vibes and the soft girl aesthetic, and embrace our own tastes and interests without feeling pressure to conform.

In addition to social media, we should be enriching our lives and hearts with hobbies and in person sisterhood. Constantly scrolling on a perfect looking feed and comparing ourselves to others can be harmful for our mental health and our spirituality!

Sara and I also chat about the recent TikTok ban, the romanticization of marriage on Muslim social media, preparing for Ramadan, and how to actively not compare ourselves to others while we are on social media.

This is a very relevant chat, and Sara and I call ourselves out many times for being chronically online :)

Dr. Rahman and I talk about the importance of being proactive about our mental health as Muslim women and how to tackle all of the cultural hurdles and stigmas we face in our community. We also discuss family relationships between spouses, parents and children, and community relationships, and how these impact the way we view ourselves and our self esteem. Lastly, we talk about the anxiety and depression epidemic within the Muslim community and how we can prevent ourselves from being prone to anxious thoughts and depressive feelings.

TW: Contains mention of mental health issues and suicide.

Disclaimer: This episode is not medical advice. If you need help, please contact a crisis line or reach out to your therapist or psychiatrist.

The political scene in America has been disturbing, distressing, and disheartening, and a lot of us don’t even feel the energy to vote. Mehak Jamil, a local activist and attorney from my hometown, talks about how important it is to vote in the upcoming election despite how hopeless it feels. She also talks about her efforts to found a political organization to advocate for Muslims, and how vital it is for Muslim communities to mobilize politically in the next few years so that our voices are heard in future elections.

Do you have a comment, question, or topic suggestion for the podcast? Fill out our inquiry form! https://linktr.ee/muslimah.podcast

Follow Mehak’s local organization on Instagram! @albanymac

Being a desi bride is a full time job!! On this solo episode I reflect on decisions I had to make such as how to wear my hijab for my wedding day, social media presence, gender separation, cultural expectations, and more! I also offer some tips and tricks for navigating this crazy time. Whether you’re going to be a bride soon or just want the tea, this is a great episode to tune into! 🫶🏼

Being a single muslim woman looking for spouse is no easy task! Lama talks about navigating all the emotions of trying to find your other half, maintaining boundaries, trusting your gut, avoiding dangerous mental blocks, not letting past experiences get in the way, and changing your mindset to truly trust Allah (swt). Check out Lama’s content and coaching services on Instagram @lamaaboubakr !

I can’t believe I’m finishing up my second year of law school! I talk about the highs and lows of the year, bad and good habits, why I’m so glad I didn’t get into a top 30 law school, advice for incoming law students, and more!

In this episode, Mariam and I talk about our Costa Rica sisters trip we took this past month and reflect on the nature we saw, the adventures we had, and most of all, the beautiful friendships and sisterhood we created! We also talk about feminine energy and how hard it is to be feminine when working in a corporate, male-dominated environment. We discuss strategies on how to balance being feminine while also establishing financial stability and a career we are proud of. Make sure to follow Mariam’s podcast on Youtube & Instagram! Youtube: @ResilientMuslimah Instagram: @mariamaslamofficial

Have you felt disconnected from the Quran lately, or want to develop a closer relationship with the text? Dr. Zainab Alwani is an expert on tadabbur, or contemplation, and she tells us how to open our locked hearts and let the Quran change our lives. Once a relationship with the Quran is created, you will never want to let go, and the way you see the world and treat others around you will change significantly. Dr. Zainab provides some practical tips for us to reach this type of relationship while also having a busy life with many distractions. Note: The four ayahs about tadabbur in the Quran that Dr. Zainab mentions are (4:82), (47:24), (23:68), & (38:29).

Want to know what law school is *really* like?? In this solo episode I talk about the reflections of my first year—the classes, the friends, the stress :) I’ve learned a lot through this first year and I hope you can benefit from my lessons and advice! This episode is a MUST LISTEN if you’re thinking about going to law school or going in the near future! I’m sharing so many things I wish I knew before going in.

In the second part of our conversation, Aisha and I talk about “If he wanted to, he would” and what questions to ask when you are first talking to someone for marriage. We also talk about Muslim dating apps and how to use them!! You don’t want to miss out on this episode :)

“The Talking Stage” sounds scary, doesn’t it?? As Muslim women we are often thrown into the marriage conversation when just two seconds ago we were told not to talk to boys at all! Aisha and I talk about this process and how to prepare yourself for this next stage of life. We both share some experiences and the ups and downs of being a single muslim woman, and how to navigate getting to know someone and seeing if they could be your better half. We also identify some red and green flags to look out for when getting to know someone! If you are 18 or older and you want to know more about how to navigate this, this is the episode for you! As the host, I learned so much from Aisha and I hope that you do as well!

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become an author? Aamna tells us all about being a female Pakistani author and the ups and downs of being in the industry! If you’ve ever considered publishing your work, this is a great episode to know more about what the process entails. Go to https://linktr.ee/aamnaqureshi_ to order her books and follow Aamna on Instagram @aamna_qureshi

When Tahera was in 5th grade, it was post 9/11, she was shocked by the horrible media coverage about Muslims. She also couldn’t wrap her head around why there were no reporters on the screen who looked even remotely like her. Fast forward a few years, and Tahera is the first of (hopefully many!) hijabi TV reporters in the United States! In this episode, Tahera tells us her story, full of heartbreak and rejection, but also happy tears and beautiful stories. She shares her hijab journey as a woman who wanted to be on the screen. Lastly, she gives us tips on how to achieve something, even if it has never been done before. I hope you all enjoy this episode!

Sereen tells us her hijab story, reflections on 9 years wearing hijab, and how she started a podcast on hijab to inspire others. Check out Sereen’s podcast Journal Hijabi @journalhijabi on Instagram!

Today’s episode is with Sabrina (aka our host Asma’s mom)!! We talk all about her experiences being a mom for 22 years, traditional and not—raising a child with cancer, having kids with large age gaps, and how we perceive motherhood on social media! Whether you’re thinking about being a parent or it’s never crossed your mind, this is an episode that you won’t want to miss out on!

Rida is a senior at NYU, you may know her from tiktok (@freespiritrida)! Today we talk about what it’s like balancing school with our own personal spiritual goals, being a leader in the Muslim community, and enjoying the college experience to the fullest! Rida is truly a gem and I hope you all are as inspired as I am!

What does it mean to speak up as Muslim women, and why are we so often encouraged not to? Maryam and Asma take a deep dive on what it’s like to be extroverted as Muslim women and who they take inspiration from. Tune in for some great advice and to hear about how Maryam was on the cover of Time magazine!

In this solo episode, I go through some pieces of advice I wish I heard before entering college. Being a recent graduate and coming out of this pandemic, there’s so many things I would love to tell my younger self! Tune in to hear how I think networking is overrated, you don’t need a picture perfect friend group, and more!

Mariama tells us about being inspired by her mother’s hijab journey and then wearing hijab herself for the first time! When starting hijab, Mariama had to balance her interest in theater with being a hijabi, and she cannot be more happy with the choice she made.

Reem Farhat is a Palestinian journalist and poet, as well as the Editor in Chief of PACC’s literary magazine, Falastin. She is on the show today to talk about her family’s story and her own experience going back and forth between Palestine and America. She also recites a beautiful poem for us, titled “Resistance is Breathing”. I really enjoyed recording this episode, and I hope that you all love hearing Reem’s story which is truly straight from the heart. As many of you have heard, the IDF continues to demolish Palestinian homes, with the most recent being the Salhiya home in Sheikh Jarrah. To learn more, please follow @theimeu @paccusa @palestinianyouthmovement and make sure to share and donate when you are able to.

Aleyna tells us all about her hijab journey as a new immigrant to the US and what insights she has learned from it, and gives so much amazing advice for someone struggling with hijab!

Join Sofia and Asma for a real talk on being the oldest daughter in an immigrant and desi household! We talk about our parents’ expectations, log kya kahenge (what will people think?) as well as other pressures we face as the oldest daughters in our families. Make sure to follow Sofia @sofia.nehal, and check out her book, The Sunflower’s Moon on Amazon!

Nehla tells us about growing up and how she felt motivated to wear hijab, as well as the media representation of hijab wearing women! This episode is the second part of our Hear My Hijab Story series!

In the first episode of a three part series, we will be hearing Namra’s hijab story and how she feels hijabis can be better represented! Make sure to follow us on Instagram @muslimah.podcast to be a part of our community of Muslimahs!

In this episode, we talk to A. Helwa about her amazing book, Secrets of Divine Love and the amazing lessons we can take away from it: immersing ourselves in prayer, freeing ourselves from judgement and arrogance, and much more. This episode is full of gems, it’s not one you want to miss out on! Make sure to follow A. Helwa on Instagram @quranquotesdaily and @a.helwa_

Khadijah has so many gems to offer us from her experience as a Muslim entrepreneur and a speech pathologist! She talks about her past businesses and where they went wrong and her new launch of a Islamic decor business, @ramadanandjuliette! She also talks about balancing her career while also fulfilling her creative side and keeping God in mind.

Bushra is the youngest Muslim elected official in the US and she has a lot of advice for us! Tune in to hear about how she got into politics, the struggles she’s faced, and tips she has for people just starting their career. Also make sure to follow her on Instagram @bushraamiwala and check out the documentary on Hulu featuring her!

In this episode, we talk about all sorts of life advice including finding a life partner, intentions, and discovering your purpose which are all part of Kashmir’s new book, The Muslim Woman’s Manifesto! Make sure to check her out on Instagram @kashmirmaryam!

Have you ever wanted to start a side hustle but feel like it would be overwhelming? Aronno, founder of @aronnodoesthings, tells us all about running a business while also being in college full time! We also talk about how to make your mental health a priority when you’re juggling a lot on your plate. Rzwg2avzezblFnCwkD3J

Abdiya is here to tell us all about Modest Fitness Week and what working out means to her as a Muslim woman. Oftentimes dressing modestly can come as a barrier to staying fit but it shouldn’t have to be! Tune in for some tips on how to stay healthy and some modest activewear brands, and make sure to follow @modestfashionweek on Instagram!

If you’re experiencing burnout and want to stay motivated in school, these tips and tricks will help you get through and maybe even enjoy your (hopefully) last semester on Zoom! As a college student herself, Asma knows what it’s been like going through the entire college experience online and she’s here to help!

The need for Muslim representation in society is more important than ever, and authors like Tayyaba are making it possible! We talk to Tayyaba about her children’s book and the story behind it as well as the importance of believing in your own story.

We can all agree that 2020 has not been an easy ride! Asma and Bayan discuss mental health and spirituality tips going into the new year as we still face the global pandemic.

Today’s conversation with Zahraa is all about modesty and making ourselves comfortable yet stylish! Zahraa is a content creator and founder of her fashion line, Zahraa the Label and she gives lots of insight into her career and how to be the best version of yourself!

Bushra is a book blogger from the UK, and she tells us all her secrets to having a successful Instagram platform without compromising your personal life ! We also talk about having a healthy relationship with social media and the importance of reading in a world that is moving so quickly!

On Thanksgiving, Asma and Sabrina talk about what they’re grateful for and what’s going to keep them motivated as finals are coming up and the pandemic continues to affect everyone’s daily lives.

Nidha is a physicians assistant who worked the hospital floors in NYC during the beginning of the pandemic. She tells us her career journey to becoming a PA as well as what it was like when her hospital was swamped with COVID cases. We also reflect on how to continue to stay safe as we recognize that COVID might be sticking around for a while.

For our first book club episode, we’re speaking to Sahar, author of best-selling book The Beauty of Your Face! She tells us about the publishing process, how she came up with the characters in her book, and what it’s like to be a minority writer. You do not need to have read the book to listen to the episode, we don’t have any spoilers!!

Meet Khadija, a woman who has spent her life amplifying the voices of the most marginalized! She is an HIV/AIDS activist, founder of Rahma and Playtime Sitters, as well as a strategist at Launchgood! She talks to us about her experiences and inspirations along her career path and what has kept her going!

Natasha is an educator and pre-college tutor, as well as the founder of a test prep company! She tells us important tips and tricks to watch out for when applying to college as Muslim women, and how the pandemic has changed the college process.

Join us for a discussion on women’s body image, self love, and fitness in a pandemic! Fatema talks about her own journey as well as how she helps her clients feel better in their own skin. Make sure to follow Fatema @fskshealthyway and @muslimah.podcast on Instagram!

Asma and Dunia talk about the first two debates for this years election and reflect on how to move forward in an ever changing world.

Muslimahs can code, and they should! Despite all the stereotypes and barriers preventing women from entering STEM fields, Aneesa has been extremely successful in cyber security, as well as founding her local Girls Who Code Chapter. Tune in to listen and get advice on being a strong woman in STEM!

Mariam tells us all about her career as a documentarian and her passion for making the world more aware about the refugee/migrant crisis. Listen in to hear about being a Muslim woman in the film industry and the risks that come with it! Make sure to also check out both of Mariams documentaries, available on YouTube.

Hajra tells us all about her journey as a Muslim woman in law as well as how she started her baking business, Just Us Cupcakes! She also answers the question so many people face: Can I have it all? Can we be a successful in our careers, relationships, family, and faith and not feel overwhelmed?

Asma and Re reflect on the past few months and talk about how to maintain mental energy going into a new remote semester. Make sure to follow @muslimah.podcast on Instagram!

Today we talk about balancing our careers, faith, and family as Muslimahs with Sr. Suzy, an acclaimed author, counselor, and Islamic scholar. We also learn more about how she founded her very successful nonprofit, Cornerstone!