The Path We Choose

By Umer FarooqueEducation Self-Improvement

The Path We Choose episodes

June 25 Why Faith Alone Can Change Everything | Episode 26 | Shahrez Hayder & Mohammed Al-Ubaidy
This episode is proudly presented by Ketkoot Iraqi Chargrilled Chicken! The go-to spot for bold Iraqi grilled chicken, whole chicken feasts, and delicious community meals in Mississauga and beyond.

https://linktr.ee/ketkoot

Apply for Shahrez's Inner Circle Mentorship Program:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/12Ruwll04qJ-y5y7YfWpnCToaDSo39jWRWVjzXgIsUBM/viewform?edit_requested=true

What if absolute certainty in your faith could transform the way you make decisions, act, and live? In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Shahrez Hayder and Mohammed Al-Ubaidy to explore the powerful concept of Yaqeen — unwavering certainty in Allah — and how it shapes mindset, actions, and resilience.

Together, Shahrez and Mohammed discuss practical ways to cultivate spiritual certainty, align your actions with faith, and navigate life with clarity, even during doubt or uncertainty. They also cover how trust, intention, and actionable faith can guide personal growth, decision-making, and everyday challenges.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• What Yaqeen truly means in Islam and daily life
• How certainty impacts your choices and results
• Practical methods to strengthen your faith and trust
• How to respond to doubt, fear, and uncertainty
• Aligning your heart and actions with your beliefs
• How consistent effort and faith work together to transform your life

Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, guidance in decision-making, or practical faith-based wisdom, this episode provides actionable insights to live with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Follow Shahrez Hayder:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6lQ9HiGlPickzSPsOZQ2Bw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrez.muslim/

Follow Mohammed Al-Ubaidy:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reachmohammed/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moe.ady.3/
Website: https://themirror-book.com/

Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):

Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/

Subscribe to The Path We Choose for thoughtful conversations on faith, certainty, personal growth, and the steps that guide meaningful living.
1 hr 33 min
June 20 The Immigrant Hustle That Built a Global Brand | Matt Preschern | Ep. 25
This episode is proudly presented by Ketkoot Iraqi Chargrilled Chicken! The go-to spot for bold Iraqi grilled chicken, whole chicken feasts, and delicious community meals in Mississauga and beyond.

https://linktr.ee/ketkoot

How do you go from starting with nothing in a new country to leading global teams at some of the world’s largest companies? In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Matt Preschern to explore his inspiring journey as an immigrant building his career from scratch to becoming a global CMO.
Matt shares how grit, discipline, and relentless learning helped him overcome challenges, break barriers, and rise to leadership in multinational organizations. This conversation goes beyond career advice — it’s about mindset, resilience, personal growth, and turning struggles into stepping stones for success.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• How Matt built a global career from scratch
• Lessons from his immigrant experience and hustle
• How discipline and consistency outshine luck
• How to overcome cultural and professional challenges
• The mindset shifts that created opportunities
• Leadership lessons from top global organizations
• Turning failures into lessons for growth
Timestamps:
(00:00:00) Introduction: The Immigrant Who Saw America's Promise at 16
(00:04:34) From Minimum Wage to UPS: The Research Assistant Who Became a VP
(00:09:31) The Athlete's Edge: Why Sports Taught Him Everything About Business
(00:13:33) The In-Flight Incident: When Everything Changed at 30,000 Feet
(00:18:28) The Choice: Letting Crisis Define You or Transform You
(00:23:44) Three Years Sober and 50 Pounds Lighter: The Health Awakening
(00:24:03) Returning to Faith: The Church He Left 40 Years Ago
(00:32:31) Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
(00:33:19) The Power of Positive Energy: Why Luck is Something You Create
(00:42:44) Toxic Relationships and Self-Respect: The Boundaries That Changed Everything
(00:40:24) The Relationship with No: Why Rejection is an Invitation
(00:46:37) Pressure is a Privilege: Diamonds Are Made Under Heat
(00:49:38) The Journey of Recovery: Action Beats Inaction Every Time
(00:54:24) Confronting the Dark Moments: Taking Accountability for Your Life
(00:56:34) Blood Pressure, Micro Strokes, and the Day He Quit Drinking
(01:08:43) Quiet Strength and the Ego Trap: Why the Best Leaders Don't Need to Prove Anything
(01:15:19) The 24-Hour Rule: Responding Instead of Reacting
(01:17:39) Final Wisdom: You Are the CEO of Your Own Life
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, professional, or anyone navigating a career pivot, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to take bold steps toward your goals.
Follow Matt Preschern:
Website: https://storytimewithunclematt.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-preschern
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):
Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose for real, human conversations on ambition, mindset, leadership, and the immigrant journey to success.
1 hr 21 min
June 15 The Truth About Mistakes, Accountability, and Allah | Shaykh Rasoul & Shahrez Hayder | Ep. 24
This episode is proudly presented by Ketkoot Iraqi Chargrilled Chicken! The go-to spot for bold Iraqi grilled chicken, whole chicken feasts, and delicious community meals in Mississauga and beyond.

https://linktr.ee/ketkoot

Apply for Shahrez's Inner Circle Mentorship Program:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/12Ruwll04qJ-y5y7YfWpnCToaDSo39jWRWVjzXgIsUBM/viewform?edit_requested=true

How do we navigate life knowing we’ll never be perfect, yet still strive to improve? In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Shaykh Rasoul to explore the Islamic perspective of faith, intention, and personal growth — the idea of “not sinless, but sin less.”
Shaykh Rasoul breaks down how true surrender to Allah, understanding His attributes, and practicing Tawakkul can transform your life. From navigating daily challenges to making decisions guided by Shariah, Istikhara, and personal consultation, this conversation highlights the balance between action and trust in Allah. He also addresses sensitive topics like interpreting Hadith, accountability in relationships, and building harmony in family life while staying true to Islamic principles.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• Why perfection isn’t the goal — strive to sin less instead
• How intention shapes every action and decision
• Understanding Allah’s 99 Names to strengthen your faith
• The 5-step process to decision-making in Islam
• How to practice Tawakkul while taking action
• Interpreting Hadith correctly and avoiding misconceptions
• Building compassion, fairness, and balance in personal and family life
Timestamps:
(00:00:00) Introduction: The Purpose is Not to Be Sinless, But to Sin Less
(00:01:27) The Right to Be Happy: Celebrating Eid While Brothers and Sisters Suffer
(00:05:18) Why Does Evil Exist? Understanding Allah's Attributes and Free Will
(00:07:55) Compassion vs Despair: Intention is Everything
(00:10:40) The Spiritual Bank: How Good Deeds Compound Like Condensation
(00:12:20) The Five Steps of Decision Making in Islam
(00:14:37) Qadar and Free Will: Two Realms Operating Simultaneously
(00:17:17) The 99 Names of Allah: Knowing Who You Surrender To
(00:21:40) Anxiety and Certainty: The Nervous System vs Faith
(00:32:02) The Hadith Controversy: Why Rejecting Sunnah Destroys Islam
(00:37:53) Hadith and Patriarchy: Context, Accountability, and Misuse
(00:46:26) Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
(00:47:14) Marriage and Leadership: The Pilot and Co-Pilot Model
(00:49:04) Who to Marry: Taking the One With Deen
(01:00:30) Hadith Kutsi and the Power of 'I Am How My Servant Thinks of Me'
(01:18:23) The Colonization of Islamic Scholarship
(01:23:26) We Don't Need Millionaires, We Need Billionaires
(01:24:52) The Teacher and the Student: Surrender to Learn
(01:25:47) Closing: Making the Deen Accessible and Lighthearted
Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, guidance in daily life, or clarity in decision-making, this episode provides actionable insights to align your actions with faith and deepen your understanding of Islam.
Follow Shaykh Rasoul:

Website: https://shaykhrasoul.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaykhrasoul/?hl=en
Follow Shahrez:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shahrez.muslim
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrez.muslim/
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):

Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose for deep, thoughtful conversations on faith, personal growth, and practical guidance for living in alignment with Allah’s wisdom.
1 hr 27 min
June 09 What They Don’t Teach You About Success in School | Hussein Farhat & Shahrez Hayder | Ep. 23
Why do we spend years in school learning facts, but never learn the skills that actually lead to success? In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Hussein Farhat and Shahrez Hayder to explore the real lessons school never taught — about mindset, discipline, personal growth, and navigating life beyond grades.
They discuss why traditional education misses the skills that matter most: building confidence, taking risks, managing failure, understanding human behavior, and developing the habits that lead to real-life achievement. Through stories and actionable advice, this episode uncovers the gap between formal learning and practical success.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• The skills school never teaches that actually matter
• How to develop habits for long-term growth
• Why mindset matters more than grades
• How to navigate real-world challenges with confidence
• The importance of self-discipline and focus
• Lessons from failure that school never covers
• How to create opportunities rather than waiting for them

Timestamps:
(00:00:00) Introduction: Two Paths to Success Through Faith
(00:08:06) The First Sale: When Effort Finally Meets Results
(00:10:29) The Athlete's Advantage: Why Sports Build Successful People
(00:23:33) Identity is Everything: Becoming Who You Want to Be
(00:16:47) Mastering Lust: The Discipline That Changes Everything
(00:30:26) The Fake Natty Controversy: Handling Hate and Proving Doubters Wrong
(01:15:17) Competition as Collaboration: Iron Sharpens Iron
(01:00:49) Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
(01:25:45) The Day-to-Day: Structure vs Surrender to Allah
(01:44:18) From Homeless to Millionaire in 14 Months: The Power of Tawakkul
(01:36:34) Success Redefined: Fulfillment Over Happiness
(01:47:01) The Inner Child: Your Gift to the World
(01:58:21) People Who Pay, Pay Attention: The Investment Mindset
(02:01:55) Final Words: Take Action From Where You Want to Be
Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or lifelong learner, this episode offers practical guidance and insight to help you take control of your success.
Follow Hussein Farhat:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hussein.fht/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1XWL44wzgDWixNaSoLVtQ
Website: https://husseinfarhat.com/
Follow Shahrez Hayder:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):
Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose for real, practical conversations about success, mindset, and the lessons life teaches that school never will.
2 hr 4 min
June 02 How to Manifest Anything Through Faith | Muhammad Al-Ubaidy & Shahrez Hayder | Pt. 1
This episode is proudly presented by Ketkoot Iraqi Chargrilled Chicken! The go-to spot for bold Iraqi grilled chicken, whole chicken feasts, and delicious community meals in Mississauga and beyond.
https://linktr.ee/ketkoot
Why does working yourself to exhaustion sometimes keep you stuck in the exact same place? Why does chasing success feel like pushing opposing magnets together?
In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with high-performance strategists Muhammad Al-Ubaidy and Shahrez Hayder to explore the connection between faith, neuroscience, and subconscious programming. They break down how mental conditioning shapes reality, stress, and opportunities — and how aligning your heart, mind, and actions can transform your life.
Muhammad and Shahrez challenge the modern hustle culture, redefining manifestation through a spiritual lens. They share how generational trauma, lifestyle habits, and toxic environments cloud the mind, and provide practical strategies to reverse this. From the 4 stages of consciousness to biological indicators of chronic anxiety, they explain how true surrender (Tawakul) can unlock a state of peak performance where opportunities flow naturally.
If you follow podcasts like The Diary of a CEO, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, or The Tim Ferriss Show, or authors like Dr. Joe Dispenza and James Clear, this episode will deepen your understanding of faith, human potential, and success.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• The Islamic perspective on turning a God-given idea into reality
• The Law of Parallels: why chasing Rizq (sustenance) doesn’t work
• How to clear childhood programming between ages 0–7 to reclaim your natural state
• Why chronic anxiety signals misalignment with your Lord
• The Headlight Principle for handling high-pressure situations
• How modern lifestyle habits limit visualization and manifestation
• How Nikola Tesla’s philosophy aligns with mindful presence (Murakaba)
Timestamps:
(00:00:00) Introduction: The Moment Where Reality Changes
(00:03:11) The Heart of Manifestation: Connecting to Allah Through His Names
(00:13:31) The Magnet Metaphor: Understanding Parallel Realities and Alignment
(00:23:40) Breaking the Idols: Consciousness, Beliefs, and the Subconscious Mind
(00:41:33) Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
(00:42:21) The Four Stages of Learning: From Incompetence to Mastery
(00:57:05) The Trifecta: Taqwa, Tawakkul, and Murakaba
(01:04:10) Living in the Present: Anxiety, Surrender, and Finding Peace
(01:02:25) Babies and Presence: Learning Islam from Pure Consciousness
(01:21:04) Visualization and Creativity: Your Divine Right to Co-Create
Whether you’re pivoting a business, managing stress, or rebuilding daily discipline, this episode gives a practical, soul-centered roadmap beyond typical self-help advice.
Follow Muhammad Al-Ubaidy:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reachmohammed/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moe.ady.3/
Website: https://themirror-book.com/
Follow Shahrez Hayder:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):
Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose for real, thoughtful conversations on faith, manifestation, personal growth, and the path we choose.
1 hr 32 min
May 21 He Got Tired of Waiting, So He Fixed Montreal Himself | Saad Tekiout & Shahrez Hayder
He Got Tired of Waiting, So He Fixed Montreal Himself | Saad Tekiout & Shahrez Hayder

In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Saad Tekiout and Shahrez Hayder to explore the story behind the Montreal man who went viral for fixing potholes across the city himself.
What started as one simple act of service quickly became something much bigger. Saad began repairing potholes for friends, family, and people across Montreal before the videos ever went viral. For him, it was never about attention. It was about solving a problem he saw in his city and helping people who were tired of waiting for someone else to step in.
This conversation goes beyond potholes. Saad shares why he sees Montreal, Quebec, and Canada as his community, why he believes helping others is the same as helping yourself, and why small actions can create a much larger ripple effect. Shahrez also joins the conversation to discuss masculinity, responsibility, purpose, leadership, and what it means to take action instead of just complaining.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why Saad started fixing potholes in Montreal
• How one simple act turned into a city-wide movement
• Why real leadership starts with taking responsibility
• What it means to serve your community without waiting for permission
• How small actions can create a domino effect
• Why Saad believes the mission is bigger than potholes
• The connection between purpose, masculinity, and action
Whether you’re from Montreal, interested in community change, or simply inspired by people who choose action over excuses, this episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest movements start with one person deciding to fix what’s in front of them.
Timestamps:
(00:00:00) Introduction: The Man Who Fixed Montreal's Potholes Himself
(00:01:37) The Path of a Regular Citizen: Why He Started Filling Potholes
(00:03:14) Masculinity Defined: Being Unapologetically Yourself
(00:06:16) Helping Your Community: The Village Mentality
(00:08:21) The Inner Child and Finding Your Purpose
(00:12:09) Taking Action Without Seeking Permission
(00:14:57) The Government Response and Standing Your Ground
(00:16:34) Beyond Potholes: Building a Movement for Change
(00:17:43) Business Values: Sincerity and Putting Customers First
(00:19:15) Focusing on Positives: The Power of Selective Attention
(00:29:58) The Homeless Crisis: Addressing Root Causes
(00:36:23) Discipline and Purpose: Never Getting Tired of Success
(00:43:58) The School System: Finding Your Own Path
(00:47:29) The Report Card Theory: Double Down on Your Strengths
(00:59:16) Taking Action: What Stops People and How to Overcome It
(01:05:56) Dress for the Job You Want: The Power of Appearance
(01:03:41) Final Message: You Are What You Do, Not What You Say
Follow Saad Tekiout:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marquize.7/
Follow Shahrez Hayder:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):

Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose for real conversations on purpose, responsibility, leadership, community, and the decisions that shape who we become.
1 hr 15 min
May 04Why "Knowing" Islam Isn’t Changing Your Life | Muhammad Al-Ubaidy & Shahrez Hayder
Why "Knowing" Islam Isn’t Changing Your Life | Muhammad Al-Ubaidy & Shahrez Hayder

Why do so many people have faith and belief but still struggle to take action?
In this powerful episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Muhammad Al-Ubaidy and Shahrez Hayder to explore the real gap between faith, discipline, and consistent action.
This conversation breaks down why people often feel stuck between what they believe and what they actually do. From procrastination and lack of discipline to fear, overthinking, and misalignment this episode dives deep into the psychology behind taking action and building consistency.
If you follow top North American podcasts like The Diary of a CEO, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, The Tim Ferriss Show, or authors like James Clear, Simon Sinek, Brené Brown, and Ryan Holiday, this episode connects deeply with conversations around self discipline, mindset, productivity, and personal growth.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• Why having faith without action leads to frustration
• The real reason people struggle with discipline and consistency
• How to overcome procrastination and overthinking
• The mindset shift needed to take consistent action
• How to align your beliefs with daily habits
• Building self discipline and mental strength
• Turning intention into real results and progress
Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, professional, or someone trying to improve their life, this episode gives you practical insights to close the gap between belief and execution.
Timestamps:
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: The Heart vs. The Mind - Finding Truth Within
00:01:10 The Heart as the Gateway to the Divine
00:03:14 Fixing the Inner to Transform the Outer Reality
00:05:25 The Mind is Contractionary, The Heart is Expansionary
00:28:50 Living in the Present Moment: The Experience of Life
00:41:13 The Trifecta: Taqwa, Tawakkul, and Murakaba
00:50:19 Understanding Shaitan: Know Your Enemy to Defeat Him
00:40:25 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
01:02:54 The Levels of Nafs: From Guilt to Unconditional Love
01:15:56 Actions Follow the Heart: Becoming an Absolute Muslim
01:29:20 The Power of Theta State: Manifesting Through Surrender

Follow Muhammad Al-Ubaidy:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reachmohammed/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moe.ady.3/
Website: https://themirror-book.com/
Follow Shahrez Hayder:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):
Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose (TPWC) for powerful conversations on self discipline, faith, mindset, productivity, personal growth, and high-performance habits.
1 hr 37 min
April 27Why Women Test Men: Psychology, Attraction & Relationship Dynamics Explained | Shahrez Hayder
Shahrez Hayder on Women Psychology, Attraction & Relationship Dynamics
Why do women test men in relationships and what does it really mean?
In this powerful episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Shahrez Hayder to break down the psychology behind attraction, relationship dynamics, and behavioral patterns between men and women.
This conversation explores why women often test men’s confidence, emotional stability, and leadership, and how most men misunderstand these situations leading to confusion, frustration, and failed connections. Shahrez explains how these “tests” are not manipulation, but signals rooted in psychology, attraction, and emotional security.
If you follow top North American podcasts like The Diary of a CEO, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, The Tim Ferriss Show, or authors like Brené Brown, Esther Perel, and Mark Manson, this episode connects deeply with conversations around modern relationships, dating psychology, and emotional intelligence.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• Why women test men in dating and relationships
• The psychology of attraction and emotional security
• Why most men fail these tests (and how to improve)
• How to build confidence and emotional stability
• The role of masculine energy and leadership
• How to respond to relationship challenges the right way
• Building stronger, more authentic connections
Timestamps:
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: What Masculinity Really Means
00:01:03 The Unshakable Man: Faith as the Foundation
00:05:24 Understanding Women: The Bridge to Jannah
00:07:40 The Test Never Ends: Why Women Challenge Men
00:12:32 Biochemistry of Love: Oxytocin, Cortisol, and Safety
00:14:19 The Triangle: Allah, Man, and Woman
00:15:12 Words Have Weight: The Power of a Man's Speech
00:16:01 The Hockey Stick Effect: When Attraction Suddenly Dies
00:16:40 Women Are Loyal to How They Feel About You
00:30:12 What Women Misunderstand About Men
00:35:56 Default Settings: All Women Are the Same, But Different
00:37:08 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
00:38:03 Don't Save Her: Accepting vs Fixing Women
00:25:26 Men Build Connection Through Time, Women Through Space
00:21:32 Quality Over Quantity: The Prophet's Example
00:46:30 Insecurity vs Gira: Protecting Ego or Protecting Her
00:54:37 Confidence Doesn't Make Noise: The Silent Strength
00:56:55 The Power of Honesty: Never Lie to Your Woman
00:45:09 Spirituality and Women: Speaking to Her Soul
01:08:17 What Men and Women Must Unlearn
01:11:52 Redefining Respect: Who Are You Really Trying to Please
01:14:26 The Qawam Identity: Becoming the Protector and Provider
01:16:55 Cortisol and Masculinity: How Men Affect Women's Health
Whether you're navigating dating, building a relationship, or trying to understand modern relationship psychology, this episode offers practical insights to improve your confidence, communication, and emotional awareness.
Follow Shahrez Hayder:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/
Instagram (Alt): https://instagram.com/shahrez.muslim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shahrez.muslim
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):
Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose (TPWC) for conversations on dating psychology, relationships, attraction, emotional intelligence, self improvement, and high-performance mindset.
1 hr 18 min
April 20You’ve Been Programmed Since Birth | Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui
You’ve Been Programmed Since Birth | Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui
Are your thoughts and behaviors shaped by subconscious programming you don’t even realize?
In this episode, Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui explains how the mind is conditioned from an early age and how that programming influences beliefs, habits, emotions, and life decisions. The conversation explores why people repeat patterns, how subconscious beliefs are formed, and what it takes to create real change.
If you follow content similar to Huberman Lab, The Diary of a CEO, or The Mel Robbins Podcast, or authors like Daniel Kahneman, Brené Brown, James Clear, and Joe Dispenza, this episode connects with ideas around psychology, behavior, and personal growth.
In this episode you’ll learn:
• What subconscious programming is
• How early experiences shape belief systems
• Why behavior patterns repeat
• How to break negative conditioning
• The importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence
• How to rewire your thinking for growth
• Practical ways to change habits and mindset
Chapters:
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Loss, Purpose, and the Path to Fearless Advocacy
00:01:26 The Path That Chose Me: Identity, Belonging, and Academic Awakening
00:06:47 Nationalism vs. Cultural Identity: Understanding the Dangerous Line
00:10:08 The Left-Right Illusion: Exposing the Political Spectrum Facade
00:18:26 Colonialism, Imperialism, and Settler Colonialism Explained
00:21:33 Syria, Iran, and the Regime Change Playbook
00:26:08 The Power of Speaking Up: Why Advocacy Always Matters
00:36:06 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
00:39:34 Death, Faith, and Fearlessness: The Moment Everything Changed
00:46:00 Success, Freedom, and Measuring What Truly Matters
00:52:08 Media Manipulation: Decoding the Narrative You're Fed
00:56:25 Selective Empathy and Orientalism: Why Some Lives Matter Less
01:14:59 Zionism Exposed: The Ethno-Religion Lie and Jewish Supremacy
01:07:06 Consumption as Resistance: Boycotts, BDS, and Decolonizing Your Life
01:36:50 Dignity Over Life: The Lesson from Palestine 1936
Follow Dr. Sabreena:
Website: https://drsabreena.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsabreena_gs/
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/sabreenags
Follow Umer Farooque & TPWC:
Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose for conversations on psychology, subconscious mind, behavior change, emotional intelligence, and personal growth
1 hr 42 min
April 14Shahrez Hayder on Islam as a System for Life
In this powerful episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Shahrez Hayder to break down a truth most people misunderstand:
Feeling stuck is not failure. It’s a test.
This conversation dives into why people feel trapped in their careers, relationships, or personal growth journeys—and how these moments are actually shaping a stronger mindset, clearer direction, and deeper resilience.
Shahrez shares real insights on overcoming self-doubt, building clarity, and taking action even when life feels uncertain.
If you follow conversations from podcasts like The Diary of a CEO, The Tim Ferriss Show, or On Purpose with Jay Shetty, or authors like Brené Brown, James Clear, Mel Robbins, and Simon Sinek—this episode will resonate deeply with you.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• Why feeling stuck is part of growth
• How to overcome self-doubt and overthinking
• The mindset shift needed for real personal development
• Why challenges are actually life’s tests
• How to build mental strength and resilience
• Taking action during uncertain times
• Turning confusion into clarity and direction
Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, professional, or navigating a life transition, this episode gives you practical tools to move forward with purpose.

Timestamps:
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Asking Allah for Greatness and Embracing Tests
00:01:06 The Path That Chose Me: Allah's Path is the Only Way
00:02:11 From Homelessness to Purpose: My Journey Through Tests
00:09:35 The Doors of Destiny: Understanding Free Will and Qadar
00:19:38 Summoning Your Rizq: Identity, Manifestation, and Becoming the Magnet
00:23:18 The Test of Fame, Ego, and Staying Humble
00:31:00 Women Are Powerful: The Role of Women in Islam and Society
00:35:16 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling
00:36:04 The 99 Names of Allah: Inheriting Divine Attributes
01:03:44 Facing Death and Finding Faith: My Darkest Moments
01:20:23 The Purpose of Life: Worship Allah and Create More Worshipers
01:25:47 Unifying the Ummah: Brotherhood, Business, and Breaking Labels
01:34:25 Closing Reflections: Living with Gratitude and Serving Allah Daily

Follow Shahrez Hayder:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/
Instagram (Alt): https://instagram.com/shahrez.muslim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shahrez.muslim
Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):
Website: https://thepathwechoose.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/
TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/
Subscribe to The Path We Choose (TPWC) for powerful conversations on self improvement, mindset, personal growth, overcoming challenges, and building a life with direction.
1 hr 37 min

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Exploring who we become through the path we choose.

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The Path We Choose

The Path We Choose episodes

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