The Heart of Foster Care 
Honoring Hasana & Zaid

In this episode of The People’s Podcast by Ismail, I sit down with author Zaid T AbdulQadir, Ben Solomon…the creative mind behind Inside the Giant and Sunshine, for a meaningful conversation about his journey as a writer and what inspired him to tell these stories. Sometimes putting your thoughts on paper isn’t just about creating a book. Sometimes it’s about finding your voice, understanding yourself, and turning your experiences into something that can reach someone else We talk about what pushed Zaid to become an author, where his inspiration comes from, and how writing has personally helped him along his journey. We go beyond the pages of the book and talk about the emotions, experiences, and ideas that pushed Zaid to put his thoughts into words. He opens up about how writing became more than simply creating a story—it became a way to process life, express himself, and better understand the world around him. From Inside the Giant, a story that explores identity, rejection, family, and the desire to be truly seen, to Sunshine, a powerful story following a mother and daughter through a changing and divided America, Zaid’s work shows how storytelling can explore both personal experiences and larger issues facing society. But this conversation goes beyond the books. Zaid shares how writing has given him an outlet to express himself, process his experiences, and turn the ideas inside of him into something meaningful that others can connect with. Sometimes the stories we write aren’t just stories—they become part of our own journey. #ThePeoplesPodcast #IsmailShahid #Zaid #InsideTheGiant #AuthorInterview #BookInterview #WritersJourney #Storytelling #Inspiration #RealConversations Support and get your copies of books by Ben Solomon https://a.co/d/0iwoQpeh Sunshine Inside the Giant Zaid and Hasana, Arizona's Foster Parents of the Year, have dedicated their hearts and lives to providing love, stability, and support to children in need. Your contribution can help them continue making a positive difference in the lives of these children and families. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. Thank you for your love, support, and generosity. Cash App: $ZaidAbdulQadir

Episode Description: From Prison to Purpose – A Conversation with Abdullah Ali In this powerful and inspiring episode of The People’s Podcast by Ismail, we sit down with Abdullah Ali, formerly known as Mitchell Lane, to hear his remarkable journey of transformation. After making life-altering decisions that led him into the penitentiary system, Abdullah found something that changed the course of his life forever—Islam. What began as a prison sentence became an opportunity for reflection, growth, and a complete change in purpose. Today, Abdullah is dedicated to serving others. He works in the healthcare field and volunteers his time helping individuals through Narcotics Anonymous, encouraging those battling addiction to reclaim their lives with hope, discipline, and faith. This conversation goes beyond his past. It is a heartfelt message to today’s youth, challenging them to ask one of life’s most important questions: “What is life really about?” Abdullah shares the lessons he learned through hardship, the importance of accountability, the mercy of Allah, and why every person has the ability to change their future. Whether you’re searching for motivation, guidance, or a reminder that redemption is possible, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. The People’s Podcast by Ismail — Real people. Real stories. Real transformation. May Allah ﷻ bless this episode, make it a source of guidance for those who watch it, and place barakah in your efforts to share beneficial stories. Āmīn. #ThePeoplesPodcastbyIsmail #StorytellingMatters #AuthenticVoices #YourStory #YourWay #RealConversations #AmplifyYourVoice #CommunityOver Everything #Podcast #NewEpisode #podcastforthepeople1

What does it truly mean to open your heart and home to children in need? In this heartfelt episode of The People’s Podcast by Ismail, we sit down with Hasana and Zaid, recipients of the Foster Family of the Year award from the Foster & Adoptive Council of Tucson. Since becoming licensed foster parents, they have welcomed multiple children into a loving, stable home while supporting kinship placements and preparing to adopt. Our conversation explores the realities of foster care, the joys and challenges of parenting children from difficult circumstances, the importance of preserving family connections, and the compassion and commitment required to serve others. Hasana and Zaid share how faith, patience, and selfless service have guided their family’s journey and why fostering is about much more than providing a home—it’s about restoring hope. Whether you’re considering becoming a foster parent, supporting families in your community, or simply looking for an inspiring story of love in action, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. The People’s Podcast by Ismail — Real People. Real Conversations. Real Impact. #ThePeoplesPodcastByIsmail #FosterCare #FosterFamilyOfTheYear #Adoption #Community #Service #FaithInAction #Hope #Family #Inspiration May Allah ﷻ continue to bless Hasana and Zaid, protect every child in foster care, and reward all those who dedicate themselves to serving families. Ameen. 🤲🏾

In this episode of The People’s Podcast by Ismail, I sit down with my nephew, Daiyan, for an honest conversation about life, family, and the journey of becoming the person you’re meant to be. Together, we discuss the importance of having positive role models, navigating life’s challenges, staying grounded in your values, and what it means to grow into adulthood in today’s world. As family, our conversation goes beyond a typical interview—it becomes a genuine exchange of wisdom, experiences, and lessons passed from one generation to the next. Whether you’re a young person searching for direction, a parent or mentor investing in the next generation, or someone who values authentic conversations, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and hope. Join us as we explore the power of family, resilience, faith, and purpose—one conversation at a time. The People’s Podcast by Ismail is where real people share real stories that inspire, educate, and empower communities.

The People's Podcast by Ismail Shahid. In this inspiring episode of The People's Podcast, Ismail Shahid sits down with Yamin Abdul Malik, founder of NESTS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literacy and empowering communities through education. During their conversation, Yamin shares the vision behind NESTS, discussing the importance of literacy as a foundation for personal growth, economic opportunity, and community development. The discussion also explores the critical role of financial literacy in helping individuals and families build a stronger future. In addition, Yamin opens up about his personal weight loss journey, offering insight into the discipline, mindset, and lifestyle changes that helped transform his health. His story serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful change is possible with commitment and perseverance. This episode is filled with practical wisdom, motivation, and valuable lessons on education, financial empowerment, health, and personal development. Tune in for an engaging conversation that highlights the power of knowledge, self-improvement, and community impact. Hosted by Ismail Shahid. N.E.S.T.S. LLC is a real estate organization built on the principle that nothing ever stays the same. Founded with nothing more than basid mentorship and minimal capital, we have grown into a highly profitable enterprise that continues to redefine what is possible in real estate investment and renovation. To date, we have successfully completed ten renovation real estate flips, strategically retaining a select few properties within our growing portfolio for long-term value and wealth building. Our motto reflects our philosophy - as markets evolve and opportunities shift, so must we. N.E.S.T.S. thrives on adaptation, turning the inevitability of change into sustainable, lasting success.

The battle within ourselves is the most relentless - and often the most overlooked. In this season opener, Ismail Shahid dives deep into the hidden war happening inside all of us, a battle that controls our anger, patience, and progress more than any external challenge. Could mastering the self be the key to transforming not just your life but your entire community?This episode strips away the noise of news cycles, political debates, and social media chaos to focus on an inner struggle that determines our fate. Ismail explores how the system exploits our internal weaknesses -the anger, arrogance, and self-doubt that rob us of peace and purpose. He shares powerful insights from spiritual teachings, including how Ramadan's month-long discipline trains us to tame the unconscious self, or nafs, and how everyday encounters reveal the true battleground: the mind and heart. You'll discover practical frameworks to identify and control the "robber" in your house - that relentless self that steals your happiness, resilience, and direction. Ismail discusses how travel exposes the stark contrast between external chaos and internal calm, and why true strength lies in self-awareness. Expect stories of transformation, hints on how to confront the anger that plagues many, and a call to reflect on yoy personal journey. This episode is a vital wake-up call for anyone feeling overwhelmed by societal division, personal setbacks, or inner turmoil. The truth is: our greatest obstacle isn't outside forces -it's the self we carry every day. Understanding and controlling that self unlocks the potential for genuine peace, unity, and progress. Perfect listening for those seeking real resilience, inner peace, and a fighting chance against the chaos of life. Join us on this journey of self-discovery, transformation, and collective healing. The battle within begins now -are you ready to take control?

In this year-end episode of The People’s Podcast, Ismail keeps it all the way real. No highlights reel. No pretending. Just an honest conversation about what this year actually looked like—the wins, the losses, the lessons, the mistakes, and the moments that tested faith, patience, and purpose. This is a raw reflection on growth, struggle, accountability, and gratitude. Some things worked. Some things didn’t. But every experience brought lessons worth carrying forward. As the year closes, this episode is about truth, perspective, and moving into the next chapter with clarity and intention. If you’ve had a year that challenged you, stretched you, or forced you to look in the mirror—this one’s for you.

In this powerful and informative episode of The People's Podcast by Ismail, I sit down with Fauzia Deen, an activist lawyer and civilian board member of the Fairfax County Police Civilian Review Board in Virginia. Fauzia brings deep insight into the role of civilian oversight in policing and the ongoing work required to build accountability, transparency, and trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Our conversation explores Fauzia's personal journey into activism and law, what motivated her to serve on the civilian review board, and the real challenges faced when civilians are tasked with holding powerful systems accountable. She breaks down how the board functions, why civilian involvement matters, and what meaningful police reform looks like beyond slogans and headlines. This episode is an honest, necessary discussion about justice, civic responsibility, and the importance of community voices in shaping public safety. Fauzia Deen's work reminds us that change often happens at the local level-and that informed, engaged civilians play a critical role in that process. Professional Summary Purpose-driven leader with 20+ years of cross-sector experience in law, wellness administration, government relations, and culturally responsive community engagement. Proven ability to build strategic partnerships, launch public-facing programs, and lead mission-based initiatives that uplift diverse communities. Former Wellness Director, Deputy Director of Outreach & Government Relations, and Guardian ad Litem, known for advancing interfaith understanding and strengthening community wellness infrastructure. Skilled in program development, state and county collaboration, cultural competency, and public-access readiness planning-positioning me to support the Diyanet Center of America in expanding its gym, spa, and cultural spaces to the public while honoring Islamic values. Core Competencies * Strategic Community Engagement * Wellness Program Leadership * Interfaith & Cross-Cultural Outreach * Government Relations & Public Sector
Partnerships * Mission & Vision Alignment * Program and Policy Development * Grant & Bond Preparation Support * Public Education & Speaking * Trauma-Informed Practice * DEI & Community Wellness Professional Experience Deputy Director, Outreach & Government Relations Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center - Falls Church, VA | 2015-Present Professional Experience Deputy Director, Outreach & Government Relations Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center - Falls Church, VA | 2015-Present * Built and maintained strategic partnerships with county agencies, healthcare systems, public schools, and cultural institutions to improve access for underserved and immigrant communities. * Led interfaith engagement and represented the Center at government meetings, civic forums, and multicultural coalitions. * Designed and facilitated public-facing programs on senior wellness, domestic violence prevention, youth mentorship, safety awareness, and community education. * Coordinated high-impact cultural events-including the Solidarity Cup of Tea and Taste of Islam-that uplifted Muslim identity while fostering cross-cultural dialogue. * Collaborated with Fairfax County's Health Department, Police Department, and Equity Committees to address racial disparities in health, safety, and outreach effectiveness. * * 6:27 * •ll 5Gc * ••• * Coordinated high-impact cultural events— including the Solidarity Cup of Tea and Taste of Islam-that uplifted Muslim identity while fostering cross-cultural dialogue. * Collaborated with Fairfax County's Health Department, Police Department, and Equity Committees to address racial disparities in health , satety, and outreach effectiveness. • Evaluated county-level public-private partnerships as a member of the Fairfax Consolidated Community Funding Advisory Committee. Guardian ad Litem (GAL) State of Indiana | 2008-2014 * Represented vulnerable youth and older adults in court proceedings involving family safety, elder protection, and reunification. * Partnered with schools, social services, law enforcement, and community programs to build long-term support systems. * Conducted trauma-informed assessments and developed care plans centered on family stabilization. * * 6:27 * ••• * Corporate Wellness Director * Spiece Lifestyle Medical Center - Fort Wayne, IN | 2000-2007 * Directed operations of a major regional wellness and fitness center. * Designed preventive health and wellness initiatives, including intergenerational health programs and culturally responsive wellness education. • Managed staff, developed membership programs, and promoted community-wide wellness engagement. Clinic Manager MED I QWIK Urgent Care - Fort Wayne, IN | 1990-2007 * Supervised clinical operations while ensuring culturally sensitive care for diverse patient populations. * Established referral systems with hospitals, community groups, and mental health providers. * Law Clerk to Magistrate C. Bobay * Allen County Family Court - Indiana | 2005. * * 6:27 * ••• * Law Clerk to Magistrate C. Bobay * Allen County Family Court - Indiana | 2005 * Researched statutes related to guardianship, elder law, domestic violence, and family protection. * Supported the court in community engagement strategy and case reviews. Education Juris Doctor - Western Michigan Law School Bachelor of Science in Business & Marketing - Indiana University * Dean's List | Coursework in Social Psychology Certifications & Specialized Training * Conflict Management & Diversity -
Certified Facilitator * Domestic Violence & Protective Orders
(Fairfax Courts) * "Challenging Racism" Graduate * Justice for Juniors - Trauma-Informed
Mentorship. * * 6:28 * ••• * First Muslim woman appointee, Fairtax
Police Civilian Review Panel * VOICE - Interfaith advocacy on housing, education, and safety * Moms Demand Action - Legislative outreach * Interfaith Council of Greater Washington - Cultural dialogue & hate prevention * Toastmasters Trainer - Public speaking training for underserved youth * Tour Facilitator - Interfaith educational tours * Women's Empowerment Program Designer - Survivor support * ICNA Relief Women's Programs & other civic engagement organizations Professional Affiliations * NACOLE * Sisters of Salaam Shalom * Fairfax Health Department Multicultural
Action Committee * Interfaith Communities for Dialogue * Indiana Bar - Attorney in Good Standing

In this special 50th birthday episode of The People's Podcast, the mic is turned around as Ismail Shahid sits in the guest chair. Interviewed by his wife, Ismail reflects on his life journey — the highs, the hardships, and the lessons that shaped him into the man he is today. From humble beginnings to a life of purpose and growth, this conversation is filled with honesty, gratitude, and reflection. Join us as Ismail shares his story of faith, resilience, and what it truly means to keep growing, no matter where life takes you. Part two of one.

In this special 50th birthday episode of The People's Podcast, the mic is turned around as Ismail Shahid sits in the guest chair. Interviewed by his wife, Ismail reflects on his life journey — the highs, the hardships, and the lessons that shaped him into the man he is today. From humble beginnings to a life of purpose and growth, this conversation is filled with honesty, gratitude, and reflection. Join us as Ismail shares his story of faith, resilience, and what it truly means to keep growing, no matter where life takes you. This interview was done in two parts. This is part one of two.