What exactly does the U.S. Department of Education do — and how does it decide where the money goes? In this episode, Dr. Dilara Sayeed sits down with Dr. Catherine Pozniak to unpack how education budgets are built, who sets the priorities, and what it takes to fund public schools across the country. We explore the mission of the Department of Education, how it supports states and students, and why funding decisions are about more than just numbers. Whether you're an educator, student, parent, or curious citizen, this conversation sheds light on the real work happening behind the scenes — and why it matters.

In this episode, Dr. Dilara Sayeed sits down with Riaz Surti, a successful business owner and candidate for city council. Riaz shares his journey of building a thriving business, the unique challenges and triumphs of being a minority entrepreneur, and his practical advice for young people who dream of launching their own ventures. The conversation also dives into leadership, civic engagement, and what inspires Riaz to step into the political arena. Tune in for a powerful discussion on business, representation, and making a difference.

These are unprecedented times! 

Join an intense Civic Pulse episode between Dr. Dilara Sayeed and Imam Ubaydullah Evans. Imam Ubaydullah is a scholar, a global leader, and a proud African American Muslim. 

The discussion includes the impact of Juneteenth on us today, challenges of our young men during Men’s Mental Health Month, our relationships with LGBTQ neighbors, and other critical issues of our time.

Dehumanization has devastating consequences for all of us. 

In this season of celebration across many faiths, from Holi to Eid and Passover, Christians will be celebrating Easter this coming weekend.

Ramadan has come and gone like the wind. 

As this blessed month is quickly closing upon us, the real spiritual and civic work begins well beyond Ramadan. 

What does that look like? How do we stay civically engaged through the rest of the year beyond Ramadan? 

Imam Tariq I. El Amin from Masjid al-Taqwa in Chicago joins Dr. Dilara Sayeed for a powerful and heart softening conversation that answers all of those questions.

Ohio State Representative Munira Abdullahi is a trailblazer in her own right. 

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is a man of many firsts. 

Elected as the first Muslim in Congress AND the first Muslim and African American to hold a state office in Minnesota, Ellison knows what trailblazing means in today's volatile political climate. 

But those accomplishments haven't come without challenges. 

Welcome to the Civic Pulse. 

To launch our very first podcast, we are talking on January 17th, Muhammad Ali’s birthday, with two generations of The Champ’s family. 

Maryum Ali, lovingly called May May by her father, is Muhammad AIi’s eldest child.

Jacob Ali-Wertheimer is Ali’s grandson, son of Ali’s daughter Khalilah. 

Dr. Dilara Sayeed is an Educator and President of the Muslim Civic Coalition. She is one of the hosts of the Civic Pulse. 

Illinois has passed the first Muhammad Ali commemorative holiday, January 17th. We are now passing it in several other states. 

Who was The Champ through the eyes of two generations of his family? How did he impact the world in his lifetime - and today? 

Watch, listen, and let’s learn the impact of empathetic, courageous, and faith-driven leaders like Muhammad Ali - we need them today more than ever!