In today’s episode, we sit down with Sayema - a Muslim psychotherapist - for a deeply-personal story about the unseen costs of having our lives be too visible online. What began as a mission to offer healing and service turned into a slow, quiet unraveling under the weight of envy, burnout, and the spiritual harm of evil-eye. 

Sayema’s story is raw, reflective, and shows her ultimately-redemptive journey of what happens when the healer via psychotherapy becomes the afflicted; and finds the cure not in the algorithm, but in the Quran, and from Al-Shifa, The One Who Heals.

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Your Chance to Build a House in Jannah—Right Here in Chicago!

Alhamdulillah, after 20 years of service, Barakah Chicago has purchased a historic 20,000 sq ft property in Edgewater—with a beautiful masjid space, classrooms, and a gym. We need your help to raise $900,000 for renovations. Donate today at https://www.barakahchicago.org/center and invest in your akhira.

Jazakum Allahu khairan!

Host: Cadar Mohamud

Guest: Sayema Zulfeqar

Season lead Producer: Khweya Bezeid 

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir 

Episode Producer: Nada Almoussa

 Writer: Sara Emira & Cadar Mohamud

Sound Design: Youssef Douazou & Yahya Arfouai

Creative director & Cover Art illustrator: Wasima Farah

Ustadh Tim Humble’s Ruqyah Course:https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuihjkTS1Xqhv9WB-epHOTXGWm7cCC4rL&si=K0dNkfC61QXKVQ-n

https://www.amauacademy.com/programs/how-to-perform-ruqyah-on-yourself-and-your-family

7-Day Self-Ruqyah Detox Plan:

https://muhammadtim.com/ruqyah/7-day-detox

This week we’re joined by Umm Dua and her daughter for a collective story of resilience and strength. This mother-daughter duo are bringing us all the message of a lifetime, including a serious reminder to be prepared for the unthinkable; to always go back to the source, the One and the Only, that sent down to you pockets of refuge amidst the most difficult circumstances.

Host: Cadar Mohamud

Guests: Umm Dua & Du’a

Lead producer: Khweya Bezeid 

Episode producer: Khweya Bezeid & Lamisah Jahan

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Writers: Naomi Wirsta & Lamisah Jahan

Sound Design: Youssef Douazou & Yahya Arfouai

Marketing & Design: Wasima Farah

Honourable mentions:

Safia Mohamed

Noura A Sheikh

Sawsan Abdillahi

We know that Allah SWT has not sent down any disease, but that he also sent its cure. And that cure is His book, His words, His guidance. But are we utilising it? 

In this episode we are joined by Umm Muhammad, who talks to us about the prophetic tradition of Ruqyah - how to revive it and practice it, and how to protect oneself against the trials that we have discussed in the season so far. 

Allah SWT does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear, and this conversation reminds us to return to Him and fear only Him, because he is As-Shifa, our ultimate protector and source of healing.

✨SPONSORS✨:

🔹 REEF Perfumes – Now in North America! No more overseas trips to restock your favorite scents. From rich saffron and oud to refreshing citrus notes, REEF has something for everyone. Visit their locations at Mall of America (Minneapolis, MN) & The Fashion Outlets of Chicago (O’Hare Airport) or shop online at www.reefperfumesna.com.

✨ Exclusive for The Digital Sisterhood listeners: Use code THANKYOUTDS20 for 20% off—no minimum purchase required! Follow @reefperfumesna to stay updated.

🔹 Support Sudan This Ramadan – 24.7 million people in Sudan—including 14 million children—are facing extreme hunger. The famine is spreading, and families are starving.

Last year, Human Concern International helped over 9,000 people—this year, let’s do more. Ramadan is a month of mercy. Your charity can save lives.

💜 Donate now: launchgood.com/v4/campaign/stand_w_sudan_w_digital_sisterhood [LINK IN BIO]

Credits:

Host: Cadar Mohamud

Guest: Umm Muhammad

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Episode Producer & Editor: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Lead producer: Khweya Bezeid  

Writer: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Sound Design: Youssef Douazou

Marketing & Design: Wasima Farah

Honourable mentions:

Sawsan Abdillahi

Safia Mohamed

Noura A. Sheikh

In the second part of Aliatou's journey, the forces she once sought to control now dominate her life, leaving her spiritually lost and broken. The darkness consumes her, and she is left with nothing but the weight of her choices. But even in the darkest moments, a flicker of light remains—an undeniable call back to the faith she once knew.

This episode explores Aliatou’s painful struggle to reclaim her soul, to return to Islam, and to seek Allah's mercy. It’s a story of repentance, healing, and the profound transformation that comes with reconnecting to the Divine.

This episode is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the endless mercy of Allah (SWT).

SPONSORS:

HELP TDS KEEP TELLING MORE STORIES:

Your support will not only enable The Digital Sisterhood to continue telling you one story at a time ‘in your ears, in your speakers’ - but to help create a future where Muslim women thrive as leaders, storytellers, and champions of positive change. 

We’re more than a podcast. We’re a sisterhood.

Together, let's empower the Digital Sisterhood and shape a brighter future for us all.

to donate visit:

https://www.launchgood.com/v4/campaign/help_grow_the_digital_sisterhood

may Allah reward you with every good that is shared and done on this podcast, آمين!

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Sudan needs our help—let’s make a difference this Ramadan.

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatu, this Ramadan, The Digital Sisterhood is partnering with Human Concern International to provide urgent food aid to Sudan. Right now, over 24.7 million people—nearly 14 million of them children—are in crisis, struggling with extreme hunger.

Last year, HCI helped over 9,000 people in Sudan. This year, we can do more. 

The famine is spreading, and families are starving. But together, we can change that.

Ramadan is a month of mercy, and charity only increases our blessings. 

Be part of a lasting impact—donate now.

Visit https://www.launchgood.com/v4/campaign/stand_w_sudan_w_digital_sisterhood to give,

and listen to our episode “Sudan’s Collective Grief Is Never Ending” to hear firsthand stories from the women on the ground.

Credits:

Host: Cadar Mohamud

Guest: Aliyatou

Season Lead Producer: Khweya Bezeid

Episode Producer: Lamisah Jahan

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Writer: Naomi Wrista, Cadar Mohamud & Lamisah Jahan

Sound Design: Youssef Douazou

Marketing & Design: Wasima Farah

Honourable mentions:

Safia Mohamed

Noura A Sheikh

Sawsan Abdillahi

There’s a world just beyond the veil, where shadows linger and whispers echo, where a flicker of doubt or fear can pull us into places we’d never thought we’d go. For Aliatou, the allure of this world wasn’t born of fear, but of curiosity—a desire to reconnect with her ancestral roots. In her search for deeper meaning, seeking to understand the traditions of her ancestors, she taps into something ancient and powerful. But as she ventures into the unknown, the line between the curiosity for her heritage and the dangerous forces she invited into her life begins to blur.

Part 1 of Aliatou’s journey explores her fascination with the unknown and her descent into the world of Santeria. It’s a tale of curiosity, spiritual struggle, and the danger of seeking answers in places where light cannot reach. As she opens herself to the unseen, the forces she encounters begin to change her in ways she never imagined, setting the stage for the darkness that lies ahead.

SPONSORS:

Join The Digital Sisterhood for a journey of the heart and soul—our very first Umrah trip! From November 23rd to December 1st, 2025, we’re traveling to the blessed cities of Makkah and Madinah in collaboration with Dar El Salam Travel, trusted for over 35 years in delivering seamless and spiritually enriching pilgrimages.

Walk in the footsteps of the Prophet ﷺ, pray in Masjid Al-Nabawi, and visit the sacred sites that hold the echoes of our deen’s most powerful moments. Our stress-free package includes guided ziyarahs, daily breakfast, all transportation, and even ihraam for men and prayer rugs for women—so you can focus entirely on your spiritual journey.

Spots are limited! The first 10 sign-ups can reserve their place with just a $50 deposit. Land packages start as low as $1,895 USD for quad rooming, with other options available.

Experience Umrah with a sisterhood that feels like home. Secure your spot today—visit https://dstworldtravel.com/tdsumrah/ or visit our link in bio to book now!

_

Sudan needs our help—let’s make a difference this Ramadan.

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatu, this Ramadan, The Digital Sisterhood is partnering with Human Concern International to provide urgent food aid to Sudan. Right now, over 24.7 million people—nearly 14 million of them children—are in crisis, struggling with extreme hunger.

Last year, HCI helped over 9,000 people in Sudan. This year, we can do more. 

The famine is spreading, and families are starving. But together, we can change that.

Ramadan is a month of mercy, and charity only increases our blessings. 

Be part of a lasting impact—donate now.

Visit https://www.launchgood.com/v4/campaign/stand_w_sudan_w_digital_sisterhood to give,

and listen to our episode “Sudan’s Collective Grief Is Never Ending” to hear first hand stories from the women on the ground.

Credits:

Host: Cadar Mohamud

Guest: Aliatou

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Lead Producer: Khweya Bezeid

Episode Producer : Lamisah Jahan

Writer: Naomi Wrista, Cadar Mohamud

Sound Design: Youssef Douazou

Marketing & Design: Wasima Farah

Honourable mentions:

Safia Mohamed

Noura A Sheikh

Sawsan Abdillahi

What happens in the moments after we leave this world? What does it truly mean to return to our Creator? In this episode, we take you on a journey through the unseen reality of death—not the supernatural unknown, but the inevitable path every soul will take.

We sit with someone who prepares bodies for burial, uncovering the sacred and intimate process of washing, shrouding, and saying farewell. Through reflection and deep conversation, we explore what it means to die, what it means to be remembered, and what awaits us beyond this life.

This is more than an episode—it’s a reminder. La ilaha illah Allah.

Because at the end of it all, that’s what remains.

SPONSORS:

_

This episode is brought to you by REEF Perfumes!

Good news—REEF Perfumes is now in North America! No more traveling overseas just to restock your signature scent. Each fragrance is a journey, immersing you in the rich and captivating aromas of the Middle East.

From the deep warmth of saffron and oud to bright and refreshing citrus notes, REEF has something for everyone. You can experience their luxurious collection in person at the Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minnesota, or The Fashion Outlets of Chicago near O’Hare Airport, with more locations coming soon across the U.S. and Canada.

Can’t visit in person? No problem! Shop online at www.reefperfumesna.com and follow them on social media @reefperfumesna to stay updated.

And here’s something special—The Digital Sisterhood listeners get an exclusive 20% discount! Just use code THANKYOUTDS20 at checkout for an extra 20% off, with no minimum purchase required.

_

Sudan needs our help—let’s make a difference this Ramadan.

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatu, this Ramadan, The Digital Sisterhood is partnering with Human Concern International to provide urgent food aid to Sudan. Right now, over 24.7 million people—nearly 14 million of them children—are in crisis, struggling with extreme hunger.

Last year, HCI helped over 9,000 people in Sudan. This year, we can do more. 

The famine is spreading, and families are starving. But together, we can change that.

Ramadan is a month of mercy, and charity only increases our blessings. 

Be part of a lasting impact—donate now.

Visit https://www.launchgood.com/v4/campaign/stand_w_sudan_w_digital_sisterhood to give,

and listen to our episode “Sudan’s Collective Grief Is Never Ending” to hear firsthand stories from the women on the ground.

Credits:

Host: Cadar Mohamud

Guest: Br. Ahmed Hraichie (The Muslim Undertaker)

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Lead Producer & Editor: Cadar Mohamud

Writer: Cadar Mohamud

Asistant Producer: Khweya Bezied

Sound Design: Youssef Douazou

Marketing & Design: Wasima Farah

Honourable mentions:

Safia Mohamed

Noura A Sheikh

Sawsan Abdillahi

With a recent chronic illness diagnosis, Maryam, a cancer survivor, shares her journey towards Allah through the pain and finding her ease in her hardship

Sometimes to fight for your faith is truly a fight of survival in systems that were not designed to welcome you. In part 2 of this story, our guest Sara recounts her painful experiences of being incarcerated as a teenager in France and her reflections on what it truly means to experience ease after immense hardships. 

** Our guest’s name has been changed to maintain confidentiality. 

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Host: Cadar Mohamud 

Lead Producer: Hanna Adan 

Writer: Sara Emira

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Sound Designer: Youssef Douazou 

Marketing & Design Team: Sawsan Abdillahi, Wasima Farah, Khadija Musa, Mariya Shan

Cover Artist: Fatimah Nadeem

There’s no doubt that faith is a journey and fighting to protect one’s faith is an honorable struggle. But what happens when you embark on a journey without a guide - or even worse, a guide who has gone astray? 

This week’s episode sheds light on the grim reality of what happens when our vulnerable youth find comfort in the arms of strangers with ill intentions. Our guest Sara vulnerably shares her story of being groomed and radicalized in her early teens and how it turned her life upside down upside down forever. 

** Our guest’s name has been changed to maintain confidentiality. 

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Host: Cadar Mohamud 

Lead Producer: Hanna Adan 

Writer: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Sound Designer: Youssef Douazou 

Marketing & Design Team: Sawsan Abdillahi, Wasima Farah, Khadija Musa, Mariya Shan

Cover Artist: Fatimah Nadeem

In this episode, we hear from Intisar, a sister who shares her personal story of faith and struggle and discusses the daily battles she encounters, trying to reconcile her emotions with her faith in Allah SWT. Her story highlights the ongoing effort to stay true to her beliefs despite inner conflicts and societal expectations.

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Come join us on a retreat this May 19-25th to Marrakech, Morocco, or May 26 - June 1 in Granada, Spain on what promises to be the journey of a lifetime. This won't just be a trip; it's a life-changing experience waiting to unfold.

Visit go.sistersgetaway.com/tds to sign up. We have limited seats available so book your trip today!

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Host: Cadar Mohamud 

Associate Producer: Khweya Bezeid

Lead Producer: Hanna Adan 

Writer: Lamisah Chowdury

Production Manager: Maaheen Khan-Bashir

Sound Designer: Youssef Douazou 

Marketing & Design Team: Sawsan Abdillahi, Wasima Farah, Khadija Musa, Mariya Shan

Cover Artist: Limma Ali 

✨RESOURCE LINKS FROM INTISAR ✨

1) Brother Wahwed Jensen and his Beyond the Rainbow Podcast - for Muslims struggling and not actively practicing the lifestyle 

https://awaybeyondtherainbow.buzzsprout.com

2) https://muslimmatters.org/author/mobeenwaheed/

3) The Straight Struggle Discord group:

https://disboard.org/server/686461916939288584

4) I hope Dr Hakim is available… his website is old and he himself is sharing too so I could make a few recommendations. 

- Yaqeen institute link to that topic from a couple of years ago:

 https://youtu.be/wb_aqp3yAho?si=7lu0roc2MspKTrot

5) Hikma Healing https://www.hakimarchuletta.com

6) Muslim Somatic Therapy https://www.forwardtohealth.com/about

7) Same sex attraction Muslims community group:

https://disboard.org/server/686461916939288584

you can also email Intisar personally at, [email protected] for any questions.

thank you for listening with an open heart!