The Minotaur’s Maze

Why do modern Muslims get it wrong when it comes to marketing, mindset and fitness?   My guest today on the Minotaur's Maze Podcast is Adam Kaan, who is a Muslim entrepreneur and Investor. In this conversation, Adam Khan shares his journey of overcoming mindset challenges, the importance of self-investment, and his mission to help busy desi dads achieve health and fitness without strict dieting or exercise.   He discusses the impact of personal experiences on his approach to health coaching and the unique challenges faced by the desi community regarding health and lifestyle.   The conversation also touches on the broader issues of mindset and entrepreneurship within the Muslim community, highlighting the need for a shift in perspective to foster growth and success.   We also discuss the commercialisation of Islamic products, the need for Muslim role models in entrepreneurship, and the importance of understanding wealth in Islam.   We explore the ethical dilemmas in modern marketing, the subjectivity of business ethics, and the necessity for collaboration within the Muslim community to build a stronger economic foundation.   The dialogue emphasises the importance of promoting positive examples and working together to create a model Muslim community that aligns with Islamic values.   What did you find the most interesting in this episode?   Please also subscribe to the channel.   You can find out more about Adam Khan by connecting in the following way:   https://kaanfitness.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamkaan/   ------   Please Visit:   https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself. --------------------------------------------------------------------   Connect with me:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zulfeh Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link:   https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

How do you deal with being incredibly fit to having critical heart issues, and then coming back?   My guest today on the Minotaur's Maze podcast is Iftikhar Ahmed who is the director of Clear Investments, which is a leading financial investment firm that has offices in Glasgow and London.   Iftikhar discusses the biggest challenges he has faced in his life, including his heart issues and his father's loss of eyesight. He shares how he approached these challenges with a positive mindset and overcame them.   He also talks about his passion for cycling and the physical and mental challenges he has faced in the sport. Additionally, he discusses his dietary changes and the importance of taking care of one's health.   In this conversation, Iftikhar shares his journey of personal and professional growth, emphasising the importance of finding balance in life. He discusses how losing his father shifted his perspective and made him realise the value of family and personal well-being.   Iftikhar also reflects on the impact of technology and social media on the younger generation, highlighting the need to focus on authenticity and real connections.   He advises young people to prioritise family, health, and staying away from the toxic aspects of social media. He also emphasises the importance of helping others and cherishing time with loved ones.   You can find out more about Iftikhar Ahmed by connecting in the following way: https://clear-investment.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/iftikhar-ahmed-/   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Please Visit:   https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zulfeh Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link: https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

My guest today on the Minotaur's Maze podcast is Haris Hussain who has autism. In this conversation, Haris Hussain, a content creator and advocate for autism awareness, shares his personal experiences with bullying and living with autism. He discusses the challenges he faced as a child, the impact of his autism diagnosis, and his journey with hair loss. Haris emphasises the importance of acceptance and support for individuals with autism, particularly within the South Asian community. He also provides advice for managing meltdowns and socialising, and encourages early intervention and treatment for hair loss. Haris's mission is to raise awareness and provide support for individuals with autism, while also promoting self-acceptance and self-improvement.   You can find out more about Haris Hussain by connecting in the following way: https://tiktok.com/@hxris.h https://www.instagram.com/hxris.h/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please Visit: https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with me:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zulfeh Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link: https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

Why is there so much controversy and suspicion placed around muslim charities? Is the criticism fair or totally unjust? And how hard is it really to jump from a corporate career into the charity sector? My guest today on the Minotaur's Maze podcast is is Kashif Shabir who has over 15 years’ experience in the social impact and charity sector. As former CEO of Muslim Aid, he shares his experience transitioning from a successful corporate career to the charity sector. He discusses the challenges and sacrifices involved in making this transition, including financial considerations and the impact on his family. Kashif emphasises the importance of intention and faith in making such a decision. He also highlights the similarities between running a charity and running a business, noting the need for strategic management and the challenges of restructuring. Kashif shares his personal experience of leading a restructuring process and the emotional toll it took on him. He emphasises the importance of self-reflection, seeking guidance, and surrounding oneself with supportive mentors during challenging times. Kashif also addresses the negative connotations associated with charities and emphasises that scandals are not prevalent and are often unfair. In this conversation, Kashif Shabir discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the charity sector, particularly in the Muslim community. He addresses the perception that there are more scandals in the Muslim charity sector compared to non-Muslim charities, emphasising that this is not the case. Kashif also highlights the importance of transparency and communication in the charity sector, particularly when it comes to donor expectations and the use of celebrities for fundraising. He suggests that implementing blockchain technology could enhance transparency and accountability in charitable giving. Kashif concludes by offering advice to individuals struggling with their own charitable endeavours, encouraging them to be brave, have faith, and make a change with good intentions.   You can find out more about Kashif Shabir by connecting in the following way: https://ethicalltd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kshabir/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please Visit: https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zulfeh Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link: https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

Can you be successful as a lawyer AND an entrepreneur at the same time? Both of these are challenging individually, but how about when you combine them?   My guest today on the Minotaur's Maze podcast is corporate lawyer, entrepreneur and Founder of law firm Ali Legal: Akbar Ali.   The conversation starts with a reminder of what the metaphor of the Minotaur in a maze is: a representation of internal and external fears and challenges in the maze of life.   Akbar shares his biggest fear as an entrepreneur, which is balancing the multiple ideas and opportunities that come his way. He discusses the importance of focus and overcoming the temptation to pursue new ventures.   Akbar also shares his journey into the legal profession, including his experience as a business owner and the challenges of running a law firm. The conversation touches on the topic of prejudice and diversity in the legal industry.   In this conversation, Akbar discusses the importance of focus and specialisation in business. He shares his experience of trying to diversify his business ventures and realising that spreading himself too thin was detrimental to his success.   He emphasises the need to prioritise attention and narrow focus in order to achieve significant results. Akbar also highlights the importance of understanding one's needs and goals in order to make informed decisions about business ownership.   He encourages individuals to have honest conversations with themselves and seek fulfilment in their chosen path, whether it be entrepreneurship or a professional career. What did you find the most interesting in this episode? Let me know in the comments section. Please also subscribe to the podcast. You can find out more about Akbar Ali by connecting in the following way: https://www.alilegal.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/akbar-ali-b647b6100/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please Visit: https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zulfeh Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link:   https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

Racism can stunt a lot of people, or it can become fuel to achieve something special. For today's guest on the Minotaur's Maze Podcast, Sohail Rashid, racism was the catalyst to breed a mentality that resulted in becoming a British Powerlifting champion. The same mentality assisted in business and entrepreneurship where Sohail is now the founder and CEO of Brawn. The conversation with Sohail Rashid covers his journey as an entrepreneur, powerlifter, and the founder of Brawn Power. It delves into his personal fears, experiences with racism, and the impact of weightlifting on mental health. Sohail shares insights on entrepreneurship, the challenges he faced, and the mission of Brawn Power. The conversation also explores the correlation between weightlifting and mental transformation, as well as the importance of prioritising health in business.   Takeaways:   - The correlation between weightlifting and mental transformation is explored, highlighting the impact of weightlifting on self-esteem and confidence.   - Sohail Rashid shares personal experiences of overcoming fear & dealing with racism.   - He also shares his experience with the challenges of entrepreneurship, providing valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.   - The conversation emphasises the importance of prioritising health in business, highlighting the impact of fitness on mental health and resilience in the face of business challenges.   What did you find the most interesting in this episode? Let me know in the comments section. Please also subscribe to the podcast.   You can find out more about Sohail Rashid by connecting in the following way:   https://brawn.co.uk/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/sohailrashid1/   --------------------------------------------------------------------------   Please Visit:   https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------   Connect with me:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zulfeh Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link:   https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

Why does the medical establishment lie about the real impact of Sunlight? Why MUST you learn about the importance of your circadian rhythm?   My guest today on the Minotaur's Maze podcast is a leading men's health coach and circadian rhythm expert: Zaid K Dahhaj.   Zaid shares facing his personal Minotaur of losing his father to heart disease, and how it motivated him to educate himself about health to help others battle their Minotaurs in the confusing maze of the health industry.   The conversation then transitions to the importance of the circadian rhythm in overall health and well-being, and why you must know about it's importance.   Zaid explains that the circadian rhythm is a 24-hour body clock that regulates various biological processes and is influenced by exposure to light. He highlights the negative effects of circadian dysfunction, such as insulin resistance, inflammation, obesity, and mental health issues.   Zaid emphasises the need for education and awareness about circadian health to address the fundamental problems in society's overall health. He also emphasises the importance of constant education and following the first principles of human biology. He offers one-on-one coaching to help people implement changes in their lifestyle and improve their circadian rhythm.   He recommends getting at least seven and a half hours of sleep, with variations depending on individual needs. He also advises aligning with the light and dark cycle, getting morning sunlight, and blocking artificial light after sunset.   Zaid discusses the misconceptions around sun exposure, including the belief that getting darker is undesirable. He challenges centralised medicine and encourages people to be curious and educate themselves on circadian health.   What did you find the most interesting in this episode? Let me know in the comments section.   Please also subscribe to the Podcast.   You can find out more about Zaid K Dahhaj by connecting in the following way: https://www.zaidkdahhaj.com/ https://twitter.com/zaidkdahhaj https://www.instagram.com/zaidkdahhaj/   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Please Visit: https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zulfeh Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link:   https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

Today's guest on The Minotaur's Maze podcast is Dr Saqib Qureshi who is the founder & CEO of Building Capital Inc which is one of Canada’s largest developers of student housing, having developed more than $100M of real estate. More recently he has founded an angel investment firm with investments in multiple sectors and continents. Prior to this, he worked at HSBC Investment Bank, McKinsey & Co and the Dubai government. He has also authored 3 books, the most recent of which is called Being Muslim Today. He is a fellow at the London School of Economics & completed his PhD in International Relations and Epistemology. Dr. Saqib Qureshi discusses his biggest Minotaur fear of having children who do not have a father growing up , the importance of self-belief, and the challenges faced by the younger generation. He emphasises the need for Muslims to be seen as peaceful and not grow up on the defensive. He also talks about the importance of being thrown into the deep end and pushing boundaries to foster growth and self-confidence. Dr. Qureshi shares his experiences in the corporate world and entrepreneurship, as well as the inspiration behind his books. The conversation explores the integration of Western and Muslim thinking, the trust deficit within the Muslim community, and the need for a shift in mindset towards community-oriented business practices. He emphasises the interconnectedness of Western and Muslim thought throughout history and the need to bridge the gap between the two. He also discusses the lack of trust and willingness to help within the Muslim community, highlighting the importance of changing this mindset. The conversation concludes with a message of self-respect, living life to the fullest, and Dr Saqib''s upcoming projects.   Takeaways:   - The fear of not being there for one's children can drive a person to prioritise their health and well-being.   - Self-belief and a bloody-minded mindset are crucial for success and overcoming self-doubt.   - Muslims should not grow up on the defensive and should be seen as peaceful, not violent.   - Being thrown into the deep end and pushing boundaries fosters growth and self-confidence.   - The corporate world may not provide as many opportunities for growth as entrepreneurship.   - Dr. Qureshi's books aim to provide inspiration and challenge conventional thinking. There is an integration of Western and Muslim thinking throughout history, and it is impossible to separate the two.   - The Muslim community has a trust deficit and a lack of willingness to help each other, which needs to be addressed.   - Business practices within the Muslim community should be more community-oriented rather than cutthroat.   - Individuals should respect and value their own lives, live authentically, and not worry about the opinions of others.   - Dr Saqib is working on a book launch and projects related to debt-free real estate investing.   Time Stamps:   00:00 - The Fear of Not Being There For Children   06:42 - Muslims Should Not Grow Up on the Defensive   16:34 - From the Corporate World to Entrepreneurship   33:41 - Addressing the Trust Deficit within the Muslim Community   49:52 - Respecting and Living Life to the Fullest What were some of your best takeaways?   Let me know in the comments below. Please also subscribe to the channel.   You can find out more about Saqib Qureshi by connecting in the following way:   https://www.saqibqureshi.com/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/saqib-qureshi   To order his new book Being Muslim today please visit:   https://www.saqibqureshi.com/books/being-muslim-today   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Please Visit:   https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself.

Ayaz Saboor, a former lawyer turned entrepreneur, shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to business owner. He discusses the challenges he faced in finding a legal job and securing a training contract.   Ayaz also opens up about his internal struggles with self-doubt and feeling good enough and worthy. He emphasises the importance of knowing what you want in your career and being able to articulate it to potential employers.   Ayaz provides insights into the legal profession and offers advice for aspiring lawyers. Ayaz Saboor shares his journey from being a lawyer to starting his own businesses and mentoring aspiring lawyers.   He emphasises the importance of thinking practically and exploring opportunities outside of the traditional legal world. Ayaz also discusses the challenges and decision-making process behind leaving the legal profession and pursuing his entrepreneurial ventures.   He highlights the need for self-belief and encourages individuals to dream big and take risks. Ayaz plans to start a podcast and expand his presence on TikTok to further support and mentor aspiring lawyers.   - The journey to becoming a lawyer is challenging and competitive, requiring a law degree, legal practice course, and a training contract.   - Internal struggles with self-doubt and feeling good enough can hinder progress in the legal profession.   - Knowing what you want in your career and being able to articulate it to potential employers is crucial.   - Hard work, discipline, and results-oriented mindset are important, but it's also about finding the right balance and doing quality work.   - Understanding your career goals and making decisions that align with them is essential for long-term satisfaction and fulfilment. Think practically and explore opportunities outside of the traditional legal world.   - Leaving the legal profession and pursuing entrepreneurial ventures requires careful consideration and support.   - Self-belief is crucial for success and individuals should dream big and take risks.   - Mentoring and supporting aspiring lawyers is fulfilling and rewarding.   - The legal industry needs to adapt to the changing aspirations and expectations of younger generations.   - Practical steps to boost self-esteem include reflecting on past achievements and avoiding comparison on social media.   Time Stamps:   00:00 - Introduction and Background 07:17 - Feeling Good Enough in the Legal Profession 26:36 - Articulating Your Motivation and Abilities 35:36 - The Challenges and Decision-Making Process of Leaving the Legal Profession 43:28 - Dream Big, Take Risks, and Believe in Yourself 52:03 - Boosting Self-Esteem: Reflecting on Achievements and Avoiding Social Media Comparison   What were some of your best takeaways? Let me know in the comments below.   Please also subscribe to the podcast.   You can find out more about Ayaz Saboor by connecting in the following way: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayaz-s-/   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Please Visit:   https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Connect with me:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link:   https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar

Success requires sacrifice. But what sacrifices are you truly willing to make for a successful career?   It cost today's guest on the Minotaur's Maze podcast his first marriage and family life. Ian Dempsey is a financial advisor and he opens up about the toll his career took on his personal life - something most people are struggling to balance in this busy, chaotic society we find ourselves in.   We also discussed:   - Financial services as a career - Being replaceable in the corporate world - Difficulty of building an online audience as a professional - The overwhelm of going self-employed and starting your own business - The real role of a great financial advisor - The importance of a personal brand as a financial professional - LinkedIn as a main source of leads + income - How to build self-esteem in our children in a social media age - Advice for those struggling with their finances in this economy - And so much more   What were some of your best takeaways?   Let me know.   Please also subscribe to the channel.   You can find out more about Ian Dempsey by connecting in the following way:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-dempsey/   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Please Visit:   https://minotaurmastery.com/ - For a free course on starting a podcast to become a confident communicator so you can change career, build high level relationships, an online brand & open up endless opportunities for yourself.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Connect with me:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfaqar-faraz/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zulfaqarfaraz/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zulfeh7/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/7ulfaqar   To listen to the podcast on your favourite podcast channels, please click on the following link:   https://linktr.ee/Zulfaqar