Soulful Wisdom Podcast (formerly Muslimcentric)

Scottish 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Islamic Scholar Shaykh Amer Jamil quotes his Uncle, as well as the Pakistani philosopher and poet, Allama Muhammad Iqbal:🕯️“Let us live in the world like a lamp — we should burn ourselves but illuminate the way for others.”We all come and go.Iqbal came and went.My Taya (Uncle) came and went.I will too.The only question is — what am I doing with this one life?🌴 Desert Island Gem#MuhammadIqbal #Sacrifice #Ummah #pakistan #allamaiqbal

Photo: ‘We Teach All Hearts to Break’. Photographer Peter Sanders reveals the story behind this iconic photograph and how it relates to his journey to Islam and a powerful verse from the Qur’an.🌴 Desert Island Gems

“I wasn’t prepared for Hajj.” 🕋Musician Isam B reflects on performing Hajj just months before Outlandish’s global breakthrough with Aicha.He describes how the pilgrimage planted a seed that helped prepare him for the fame, pressure and opportunities that followed.A timely reminder as millions undertake their Hajj journey this year.#Hajj #isamb #islamListen to the full interview:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3yvnE2OLgPKKWmelYHrq2q?si=vueB1Y_TQH64p7IsDckyEA

Join us for a deeply personal interview with Brother Ali, a renowned hip hop artist and activist. In this episode, we explore Brother Ali's incredible journey: from growing up with albinism and being embraced by the black community, to converting to Islam at 15, and his outspoken stance on critical issues like Palestine that led to his marginalisation by influential powers.   - Early Life & Albinism: Brother Ali shares his experiences growing up with albinism and finding acceptance within the black community. - Conversion to Islam: Hear about Brother Ali's spiritual journey and conversion to Islam at the age of 15. - Advocacy & Cancel Culture: Discover how his advocacy for Palestine and other causes has impacted his career, leading to his "cancellation" by some in the industry. - Entertainment Industry: From performing on Jimmy Fallon and Conan O’Brien to appearances at Glastonbury and Coachella, Brother Ali reflects on his changing career. - Relocation to Istanbul: Brother Ali discusses his move to Istanbul and his reflections on America. - Relationships with Legends: Insights into his connections with Yasiin Bey, Chuck D of Public Enemy, Rakim, KRS-One, and Dave Chappelle.   Brother Ali’s openness and honesty provide a unique look into the mainstream entertainment world and the challenges faced by Muslims. His story is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to truth. #BrotherAli #HipHop #Islam   In this episode, we discuss: Relocating from USA to Istanbul Being authentic, challenges in my career Albinism. Black people taught me how to live life. My conversion to Islam - Part 1 HipHop legends - KRS One, Chuck D My conversion to Islam - Part 2 Music and Islam Entertainment Industry Albinism Fame and Celebrity: Dave Chappelle. How therapy has helped me Sacrifice My legacy Love and Service – New Album What to listen to me if you have never heard my music I want to help those who want to come to Islam   USEFUL LINKS - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric?sub_confirmation=1   - Brother Ali https://www.instagram.com/brotheraliisblind/ https://www.facebook.com/brotherali https://www.youtube.com/@BrotherAli_Travelers   - NEW ALBUM: Brother Ali's new album Love and Service - available on Spotify and other streaming platforms, as well as physical copies at https://www.brotherali.com/   - MUST-WATCH VIDEOS The Collapse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0WACI8OJSI Cadillac: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxZHHkBSQbo   - Support Independent Artists like Brother Ali, whose voices are often silenced. By supporting independent music, we ensure that important messages and diverse voices continue to be heard.   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://muslimcentric.substack.com/     KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric?sub_confirmation=1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/

Isam Bachiri is a singer, songwriter and artist who was one of the founders of the award-winning Danish hip-hop group Outlandish. They had a global hit, including a number 1 in Germany, with their cover of the song Aicha and one of their songs even featured on the video game FIFA 07.   We explore his Moroccan roots and his relationship with his father, who moved to Denmark in 1967 as an undocumented migrant We speak about Isam’s evolution from a shy introvert into a global superstar, and how he coped with the challenges of fame and celebrity whilst staying true to his faith.   He tells me about saying no to performing on Big Brother, turning down Netflix acting roles, how Hajj came at the right time for him, and his lifelong support for Palestine.   In this episode, we discuss: Parent’s journey from Morocco to Denmark The significance of preserving and celebrating our heritage Early childhood influences The formation of Outlandish 9/11, Hajj and the timing of the song Aicha’s success Palestine and silence of some artists Entertainment industry and pressure to sacrifice your morals The end of Outlandish after 20 years. Advice on collaborating with friends Sacrifice Mental health. Navigating tough times Legacy and future projects #outlandish #aicha #isamb   USEFUL LINKS - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric?sub_confirmation=1    Aicha (Video) https://youtu.be/f0nFTdKlKLw Look Into My Eyes - Palestine (Video) https://youtu.be/DkwxMYiyd_M Celebrating Ramadan (Video) https://youtu.be/ubiNIqIxmJM Instagram https://www.instagram.com/isamb_official/   Book: Fædreland / Fatherland by Isam B and Tarek Omar   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://muslimcentric.substack.com/   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/ All links: https://linktr.ee/muslimcentric/

Azeem Muhammad is an American Muslim comedian celebrated for his role in the groundbreaking comedy tour, 'Allah Made Me Funny'.   Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Azeem talks candidly about growing up in difficult circumstances as an introverted young man who loved to read. His life was shaped by the rise of hip-hop and gangster rap. His attempt to become a drug dealer was short-lived due to the strong guiding presence of his mother.   Azeem’s life was turned around in an instant when he saw Louis Farrakhan on TV, leading him to join the Nation of Islam. From that point on, a journey of self-discovery and discipline unfolded, intertwined with his pursuit of comedy.   Azeem shares his experiences of providing entertainment to Western Muslims in the aftermath of 9/11, shedding light on the complexities of belonging and acceptance, particularly for Black Muslims within the broader Muslim community.   Join us as we delve into Azeem's story of resilience, transformation, and the power of laughter in navigating life's challenges.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life and childhood. Struggling to fit in as a child. Feelings of loneliness and abandonment Racism Gangster rap and hip-hop Gang culture Becoming a drug dealer Louis Farrakhan and conversion to Nation of Islam Becoming a Muslim Global comedy tour ‘Allah Made Me Funny’ Showing Western Muslims how to laugh Sacrifices Balancing work and home life Legacy #comedy #muslimcomedy #noi #nationofislam #farrakhan #AllahMadeMeFunny #islam #humour #muslim #racism #funny   USEFUL LINKS - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Azeem Muhammad https://azeemcomedy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/azeemcomedy/ https://www.facebook.com/AzeemComedy/ https://twitter.com/AzeemComedy   - Allah Made Me Funny https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allah_Made_Me_Funny   === SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

A captivating and thought-provoking conversation with esteemed Muslim thought leaders. In this episode, we are honoured to host a panel featuring prominent Islamic scholar Shaykh Ruzwan Mohammed, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain Zara Mohammed, and seasoned media relations strategist Osama Saeed. Together, they engage in an enriching dialogue covering a wide spectrum of topics, offering insights and perspectives that promise to broaden your understanding and stimulate critical thinking.  Topics discussed include #gaza #palestine #islamophobia #muslims #israel #antisemitism #muslimleadership #media #piersmorgan #mainstreammedia #theoryofchange In this episode: 0:00:00 Introductions 0:02:00 How has the Gaza war affected you? 0:03:00 How has the Gaza war affected you? (Zara) 0:05:19 How has the Gaza war affected you? (Osama) 0:08:07 How has the Gaza war affected you? (Shaykh Ruzwan) 0:13:10 Has there been an effective response from the UK Muslim community ? 0:31:17 Zara's experience of the Muslim community after travelling to 300 organisations 0:36:09 Mosques, Imams and Vision 0:37:30 UK versus USA Imams and Mosques 0:38:00 A solution to the Palestine conflict 0:40:05 Who should Muslims vote for in the UK and USA ? Has the UK Labour party lost the Muslim vote? 0:44:00 Muslims engaging in politics 0:47:25 Has the push for Muslims to be involved in politics in the West been a waste of time? 0:55:00 Osama's Theory of Change for peace in Palestine - the art of persuasion  0:56:55 Joe Biden and Israel 1:00:55 Shaykh Ruzwan: The community inflicting this is a traumatised community 1:01:33 Normalisation of Israel by Saudi Arabia, UAE and other countries 1:04:00 Muslim countries and their position 1:06:53 What do Non-Muslims think of the Muslims? 1:10:10 What does NOT change? Example of Amazon 1:11:44 What has Zara learnt about the Media Machine?  1:15:23 Zara's response to "Do you condemn Hummus?" 1:17:08 Should Zara appear on the Piers Morgan show? Osama's advice from a media relations expert 1:20:22 The Muslims need a Message. Tackling Islamophobia. Anti-Semitism. What needs to happen? What do Muslims have to offer? 1:23:30 Politicians and Food banks. A loss of dignity 1:25:25 Shaykh Ruzwan's 'controversial' views on the media, Muslim messaging, communication, Muslims in the civic space, Islamophobia and the Prophetic example 1:30:30 Challenges of bringing on board Islamic Scholars to address current issues such as Islamophobia 1:36:00 Solving Zara's dilemma - how to get the right Islamic Scholars involved? 1:38:24 An alternative solution to Islamophobia - examples from the LGBT community. Pride, Stonewall and the Rainbow 1:41:25 The reality of Muslims being victimised and attacked 1:46:05 A question of courage. Come out of your echo chamber 1:47:40 Are there intelligent Muslims forming a vision and long-term strategy for Muslims in the UK? 1:53:57 Concluding messages Recorded 31 January 2024   USEFUL LINKS - SHAYKH RUZWAN MOHAMMED Regarded as one of the foremost Islamic scholars in the West.  Desert Island Gems interview: https://youtu.be/HuoEr_L_KXw https://www.isyllabus.org/teachers/ https://www.iidr.org/people/21-ruzwan-mohammed/   - ZARA MOHAMMED Award-Winning Leadership Strategist, Public Speaker & Consultant Regarded amongst the most influential women in the UK today. https://twitter.com/ZaraM01 https://www.instagram.com/zara_m02 https://zara-mohammed.com/   - OSAMA SAEED Director of comms, policy and campaigns at Shelter Former Amnesty International's comms director Former Al Jazeera Media Network's head of comms https://osamabhutta.scot/ https://uk.linkedin.com/in/osamasbhutta https://instagram.com/osamasbhutta https://twitter.com/osamasbhutta   === SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

*NOTE -  This episode discusses suicide. If you are affected by suicide or are worried about someone, please see the links at the end of these show notes*   Muslims die by suicide too.   This may be an uncomfortable reality for many within religious communities but is an important issue for us to discuss. Research suggests that discussing suicide does not make it more likely but may actually help people get the right support.   My guest is Professor Rory O’Connor, a Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Glasgow who has been working on suicide research for over 25 years. As the head of the Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory at the University of Glasgow, President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, and Past President of the International Academy of Suicide Research, Professor Rory brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation.   As well as contributing to BBC documentaries on the subject, his award-winning book “When it is darkest: Why people die by suicide and what we can do to prevent it” addresses the common questions, myths and misunderstandings surrounding suicide.   In this interview, Professor Rory not only shares leading research on the topic but also opens up about his personal experiences of losing people to suicide. This episode aims to foster understanding, dispel myths, and encourage dialogue around a critical issue affecting communities worldwide.   In this episode, we discuss: How to talk about suicide Why Rory wrote the book Patterns of suicide throughout our lifetime Suicide in men Importance of sleep Understanding deliberate self-harm and suicide Coping with the loss of a loved one The unpredictability of grief Why people die by suicide – the Integrated Motivational-Volitional (IMV) model Advice if you have suicidal thoughts Social media and news guidelines Faith, religiosity and suicide Suicide in Muslim countries and around the world Is suicide preventable? Helping those who are suicidal What are the signs someone may be suicidal? Developing a safety plan A Muslim parent’s story of losing his child by suicide   USEFUL LINKS   - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Professor Rory O’Connor https://twitter.com/suicideresearch https://suicideresearch.info/ https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/healthwellbeing/staff/roryoconnor/ https://www.instagram.com/oconnor_roryc   Trustee & Podcast Host, MQ Mental Health Research https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/category/mq-open-mind-podcast/   President, International Association for Suicide Prevention https://www.iasp.info/our_team/rory-oconnor/   Past President, International Academy for Suicide Research https://suicide-research.org/   - Book When it is darkest: Why people die by suicide and what we can do to prevent it Professor Rory O’Connor https://amzn.eu/d/deKVide   - Article A Muslim parent’s story of losing his child by suicide https://inayatscorner.wordpress.com/2021/07/15/goodbye-to-my-dear-son-adam-salih/ https://inayatscorner.wordpress.com/2022/07/06/my-son-adam-suicide-one-year-on/   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com ===== **GETTING HELP IF YOU ARE SUICIDAL** Support is available. Inshallah things will get better so do not feel you have nowhere to turn. Here are some options to consider.   1-Call or text a helpline Supports in UK – Note services may vary depending on where you live   - Samaritans: For everyone Call 116 123 Email [email protected]   - Muslim Youth Helpline: Faith and culturally sensitive support by phone, live chat, WhatsApp or email. We offer non-judgemental, confidential support 7 days a week, 365 days a year including bank holidays and Eid. https://myh.org.uk/   - Papyrus: Prevention of young suicide HOPELINE247 Call 0800 068 41 41 Text 07860 039967 Email [email protected]   - Shout Crisis Text Line: For everyone Text "SHOUT" to 85258   - YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: For people under 19 Text "YM" to 85258   - Worldwide: Please contact support in your country.   Find A Helpline - International Association for Suicide Prevention https://findahelpline.com/i/iasp https://www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts/   2-Talk to someone you trust This could be a friend or family member.   3-Contact a health professional In the UK, you can, Call your GP Call the NHS 111 or 999 if it is an emergency

Preacher Moss is a distinguished American comedian, writer, and educator, best known for his pivotal role as the founder of the groundbreaking comedy tour, 'Allah Made Me Funny.' This tour played a crucial role in boosting the confidence of Muslims worldwide in the aftermath of the events of 9/11 in 2001. Collaborating with fellow comedians Azhar Usman, Mo Amer, and Azeem Muhammad, Preacher Moss embarked on a journey that not only entertained but also served as a source of empowerment.   Beyond his success in the stand-up comedy realm, Preacher Moss's talents extended to writing for renowned figures such as Damon Wayans and George Lopez. Despite achieving trailblazing success as an American Muslim comedian, Moss, often referred to as the O.G. (Original Gangster), deliberately resisted the allure of mainstream comedy career opportunities, steadfast in his commitment to uphold his faith without compromise.   Born into a Christian family in Washington DC in the 1960s, Moss's formative years were shaped by the harsh realities of racism. His parents, both civil rights activists, embody the spirit of change—his father a Black Panther, and his mother having crossed paths with Martin Luther King Jr.   As a Sunni Muslim, Preacher Moss was inspired by Imam Warith Deen Muhammad but also benefited from the discipline and self-dignity espoused by the Nation of Islam.   Delving into his unique perspective, Preacher Moss shares his experiences of being Black within the Muslim community, shedding light on how he navigated the challenges of racism within this diverse group.   His story not only entertains but also serves as a platform for fostering understanding and unity. Listen in as Preacher Moss opens up about his unique journey, offering valuable insights and inspiring anecdotes that transcend the boundaries of comedy.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life and childhood. Growing up in an active civil rights household. Racism as a child Becoming a Muslim Origins and strategy behind ‘Allah Made Me Funny’ Muslim comedians in the mainstream Comedy mentor Dick Gregory Imam Warith Deen Muhammad and the Nation of Islam Personal sacrifices Meeting Muhammad Ali #comedy #muslimcomedy #AllahMadeMeFunny #islam #humour #muslim #racism   USEFUL LINKS   - Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Preacher Moss https://preachermoss.com/my-story https://www.instagram.com/preachermoss https://twitter.com/PreacherMOSS https://www.facebook.com/preachermoss https://www.youtube.com/@PreacherM1   - Allah Made Me Funny https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allah_Made_Me_Funny   - Interview with Brother Ali (Travelers Podcast) https://youtu.be/iX9__GYxkv8?si=UKO6gPcXVGxZgALr https://youtu.be/9iRZ3XRcPPo?si=p_jNPSuxP9CKwFX3   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

Shaykh Ruzwan is one of the foremost Islamic scholars in the West. Hailing from Glasgow, Scotland (UK), Shaykh Ruzwan obtained a degree in Geopolitics and Arabic before leaving to study in Turkey in the 1990s. He went on to study in numerous Middle Eastern countries including Yemen and Syria. Shaykh Ruzwan graduated from the prestigious Mahad al-Fat’h Islamic Law College in Damascus with a distinction of merit, achieving overall first position in his year of graduation from the college.   On his return to the UK, he authored the iSyllabus Islamic Studies curriculum which has been taught to over 7000 students in 15 cities for more than 10 years. Since the pandemic, it has moved online and now has a global audience.   In this episode, we discuss: Early life and childhood Difficulty reading at a young age Involvement in street violence Studying in Glasgow, Turkey, Cairo, Yemen and Damascus Life as a student in the Middle East Developing a ground-breaking English Islamic studies programme for a Western audience Personal sacrifices Impact on physical health Character and personality Legacy Relaxation, humour and leisure   #isyllabus #islamic #islamicstudies #islam #quran #education #muslim   USEFUL LINKS - Watch this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric   - Biographies of Shaykh Ruzwan https://www.isyllabus.org/teachers/ https://www.iidr.org/people/21-ruzwan-mohammed/   - iSyllabus Islamic Studies programme https://www.isyllabus.org/ https://www.facebook.com/iSyllabus/ https://www.instagram.com/isyllabus/ https://youtube.com/@iSyllabus/   https://isyllabusforschools.org/   SUPPORT US If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.   SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER https://bit.ly/newsletter-muslimcentric   KEEP IN TOUCH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muslimcentric Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/muslimcentric Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/