UIF Community Podcast

Navigating Marriage, Mindset, and Mental Health

In this episode of the UIF Community Podcast, we sit down with Farhan Ahmed, founder of Ihsan Coaching, an online coaching and therapy platform serving the Muslim community worldwide. https://ihsancoaching.com/
 
Farhan brings a unique blend of clinical training, practical tools, and faith-centered guidance to help individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s most meaningful challenges. Our conversation explores a wide range of topics — from relationship and family dynamics, to common marital struggles, early warning signs that can lead to divorce, and the value of addressing issues proactively.
 
Farhan also highlights the importance of pre-marriage counseling and how intentional preparation can strengthen the foundation of a future marriage. Beyond family and marital topics, we also dive into mental and emotional well-being, discussing how people today are coping with anxiety, depression, and stress, and how Ihsan Coaching provides accessible support rooted in compassion and Islamic values.
 
Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships, strengthen your emotional health, or better understand the tools available to our community, this episode offers valuable insights and practical guidance for anyone seeking growth and clarity.
 
Don’t miss this powerful conversation — it’s packed with insights that can truly elevate your relationships, your mindset, and your overall well-being.

Balancing Faith, Success & Happiness

In this episode, we have the distinct privilege of chatting with Dr. Yaqub Mirza, a physicist, entrepreneur, author, and an insightful leader whose impactful work deserves broader recognition. Dr. Mirza’s co-founded the private equity firm Sterling Management Group, investing millions in business ventures globally, and making a significant mark on Islamic institutions through his generous support and philanthropic efforts. Besides serving on the Boards of AMANA Funds and UIF, Dr. Mirza has been a lifelong supporter of ISNA and many Muslim charities.
It is an honor to learn from Dr. Mirza, whose book "5 Pillars of Prosperity" and life experiences offer valuable insights for all. During our conversation, we explored Dr. Mirza’s journey, his approach to entrepreneurship, and the wisdom he shares in his writings. Listeners will gain practical knowledge that they can apply in their own lives. Thanks for listening and your ongoing support.
If you have guest speaker ideas for future episodes or constructive feedback, please share with us: feedback@myuif.com

From Physician to Tech Entrepreneur

In this episode of the UIF Community Podcast, we chat with Dr. Saamer Siddiqi — a physician, entrepreneur, and founder of LIVEMED Telehealth, a fast-growing virtual healthcare company transforming how patients access care across the country.
 
Dr. Siddiqi shares his journey from long hospital shifts in Chicagoland to launching a tech-driven healthcare startup — and the mindset shifts, lessons, and risks that made it possible. He opens up about balancing a demanding medical career with entrepreneurship, building a team from scratch, and using innovation to solve real-world problems.
 
But this conversation isn’t just for doctors — it’s for anyone looking to turn a passion or professional skill into a meaningful business. You’ll hear practical takeaways on leadership, perseverance, and thinking like an entrepreneur, no matter what field you’re in.
 
As always, we value your opinion.  If you have guest speaker ideas for future episodes or constructive feedback, please do share with us:  feedback@myuif.com
 
If you enjoyed this episode, please share with your family and friends. We are extremely proud that over 199,000 people have listened to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube in the last few months. Thanks for your support... it means the world to us!

Demystifying The Chick fil-A Business Model

In this episode of the UIF Community Podcast, our hosts discuss some lessons we can all learn from Chick-fil-A’s uber successful business model. Using insights from the book "Covert Cows and Chick-fil-A" and other resources, your hosts explore practical ideas on building a customer-first culture and creating long-term loyalty in a competitive market.
 
The conversation starts with Chick fil-A's early beginnings to its "Eat Mor Chikin" ad campaign and ends discussing how just $10,000 (initial fee) can make you a Chick fil-A franchisee someday.  
 
But first, the hosts dive into a quick housing market update and Aijaz's recent trip to Scotland & Ireland and why both these countries must be on your travel bucket list.
 
If you enjoyed this episode, please share with your family and friends. We are extremely proud that over 197,000 people have listened to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube in the last few months. Thanks for your support... it means the world to us!

Balancing Faith & Politics - a Muslim Sisters journey to political prominence

In this episode of the UIF Community Podcast, we’re joined by two special guests; IL State Representative, Nabeela Syed & Community Activist Attorney, Faiyaz Hussain. If you want to learn how to impact our communities (politically speaking), this is must listen!
At the tender age of 22, Nabeela flipped one of the Republican districts in the IL State Senate race.  She comfortably beat a Republican incumbent in her first win, and then doubled the margin of victory in her reelection bid in 2024. 
As one of the youngest Muslim women ever elected to public office, Nabeela is redefining what leadership looks like bringing her faith, passion, and fresh perspective to the political arena. Nabeela starts out discussing what first motivated her to join politics and what compels her now to advocate for her community. From campaign challenges to working in a bi-partisan fashion, this is an inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.
Also joining us is Faiyaz Hussain, a civil rights attorney and policy expert who offers insight into legal advocacy, religious freedom, and national efforts to combat Islamophobia.
We are super excited to bring you two incredible visionaries in one powerful podcast!  Please enjoy and share this episode with your loved ones if you find it valuable!
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Disclaimer: Welcome to the UIF community podcast, before we get started, please keep in mind that this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual presenters and do not necessarily reflect UIF Corporation or its affiliates.

Building Generational Wealth by Investing in Real Estate

How do you go from zero properties owned to managing over 320 units and $95 million in real estate assets—all while staying true to your values?In Episode 16 of the UIF Community Podcast, we sit down with Sirai Farah, a rising real estate investor who shares her journey into the world of wholesaling, multifamily acquisitions, and building strong relationships with investors.Whether you're just getting started or looking to scale your portfolio, this episode offers practical insights and a real-world look at what it takes to build generational wealth in real estate.Please enjoy and share this episode with your loved ones if you find it valuable! 

Conversation with a Principal & Educator Extraordinaire

On this podcast episode we are super excited to bring you a conversation with Br. Habeeb Quadri. 
 
Habeeb is an acclaimed educator and community leader recognized for his outstanding contributions both locally and internationally.  He was honored with the prestigious National Principal Award in 2019.  Habeeb has conducted over 1,000 seminars on topics such as ethical leadership, social-emotional intelligence, school culture and empowerment of educators and administrators. 
 
Habeeb is also an acclaimed author with multiple books to his credit and a member of Harvard University's School of Education Advisory Board. We are grateful that Habeeb took some time out of his busy work and travel schedule to share some of his wisdom with us.  This conversation covered many topics including how parents can raise confident, faith-driven and respectful children in today’s world? He then shared some thoughts on how Islamic schools are playing a pivotal role in shaping our next generation.
 
The conversation ends with Habeeb discussing some topics from his recent book "Prophetic Leadership".   However, we begin this episode by discussing the current state of the real estate industry and our thoughts on the upcoming home buying season. 
Please enjoy and share this episode with your loved ones if you find it valuable!

Mastering The Art of Productivity

What does it mean to be truly productive while staying grounded in faith? In this episode of the UIF Community Podcast, we sit down with Mohammed Faris, the founder of The Productive Muslim Company and one of the Top 500 Most Influential Muslims in the World. As an internationally recognized coach, speaker, and author, Mohammed has helped thousands of professionals, entrepreneurs, and students integrate Islamic principles with high performance to lead more meaningful and impactful lives. With Ramadan being a time of reflection, discipline, and personal growth, this episode comes at the perfect moment to help you stay productive while staying true to your values.Join us as we explore Mohammed’s journey from an online blog to a global movement, his practical strategies for achieving balance in a fast-paced world, and the mindset shifts necessary to align your faith with your daily habits. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on faith-driven success, personal growth, and making the most of your time—especially in a month where productivity can be truly transformative. Tune in now!

Conversation with NBA star Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf

We are excited to drop our newest podcast with a celebrity guest. In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome an extraordinary human being whose story exemplifies resilience, courage, and the power of conviction - former NBA star Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf.
Mahmoud’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. From growing up in a rough neighborhood in Mississippi, to becoming a standout college basketball player and achieving stardom in the NBA, he’s overcome countless obstacles, including Tourette Syndrome & societal challenges. Through it all, Mahmoud has remained steadfast in his principles, demonstrating what it truly means to lead with faith and integrity.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, guidance, or just an incredible story, this episode promises to deliver. Have your kids listen to this podcast as well if they want to know what it takes to play professional ball.  It may strengthen their resolve, or they will pivot to another career. Sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by one of the most thoughtful voices in our community today... Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf. As always, we begin the episode with some thoughts on the Housing Markets from our EVP Sales, Aijaz Hussain.  Please share this episode with your contacts... it will mean the world to us!
If you enjoyed this episode, please share with your family and friends. We are extremely proud that over 140,000 people have listened to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube in the last few months. Thanks for your support... it means the world to us!
Connect with Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf here: https://www.instagram.com/mahmoudar123/

Free advice from a high-profile Attorney

As-Salaam Alaikum & Happy New Year Friends! We are excited to launch the 11th episode of our UIF Community Podcast. In this episode we chat with a very successful attorney & community activist, Furqan Mohammed.  Our goal is to interview and learn from interesting community members who can add value to our lives.  Furqan definitely checks these boxes for us!  After covering Furqan's journey from a school teacher to a prominent attorney, we discuss how to protect assets & families with proper estate planning techniques. We then talk about some high-profile cases Furqan is working on, including the case of Sania Khan, a social media personality who was murdered in Chicago few years ago. 
 
However, we begin this episode sharing our thoughts on the 2025 Housing Market outlook and the challenges we see ahead.
 
Enjoy the episode and thank you for listening!