We sit down with Johnny Stevenson, co-founder of SoundSafe AI, to explore the evolving world of AI audio safety, his creative journey with Invasivemedia, and his work alongside Chicago music artists. He opens up about the real challenges of building ethical technology in today’s fast-moving digital landscape—and what it truly means to protect creators in the age of AI.

We’re also joined by Hamad Dada, co-founder of SoundSafe AI, who takes us back to his roots in Montreal. Growing up in a cultural melting pot, Hamad balanced a deep love for the arts—painting, design, and electronic music—with a career in engineering and telecom. That fusion of creativity and technical expertise ultimately paved the way for ventures like SoundSafe AI.

This episode is a masterclass in how diverse passions can converge to build groundbreaking, responsible technology. From innovation to ethics, we dive deep into what it takes to create AI systems that truly safeguard both creators and listeners.

🎧 Listen to the full story on The SZ Show.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring story behind SalaamFest — how it started, what it represents, and the community it’s building. We talk about empowering small businesses, especially those driven by passion and purpose, and explore how events like SalaamFest give them the platform they deserve. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, community collaboration, and the heart behind this growing movement.

Follow @salaamfestusa and @thesz.show to stay connected with the journey and upcoming episodes.

From helping local coffee and dessert carts make their first big debut at bustling bazaars to mentoring up-and-coming Muslim entrepreneurs, the founders of SalaamFest have worked tirelessly to create opportunities for growth while keeping faith at the center of it all. This episode explores how community leaders and volunteers came together to support initiatives like fundraising for mosques, including partnerships with organizations such as the Ojala Foundation and AmCivic, working toward civic engagement and activism in Chicago’s northwestern suburbs.

Featuring the SalaamFest Team: Ather Khan, Rohaan Ali, Ahsan Ahmed, and your favorite podcast host of the SZ Show, Salman Zubairy

In this episode of The SZ Show, we explore the heart of community organizing in Chicago—what it looks like on the ground, why it matters, and how everyday people are building real change from the grassroots up. From mutual aid to local activism, discover the challenges and victories that shape our neighborhoods and inspire future leaders.

Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes clips and updates: @thesz.show 🎙️ #CommunityOrganizing #ChicagoVoices #TheSZShow

The SZ Show | Episode 13: The Power of Community & Psycho-Social Implications w/ WZRD Chicago 88.3 FM In this episode of The SZ Show, we dive deep into the power of community and its psycho-social impacts with a special guest from WZRD Chicago 88.3 FM, an independent freeform radio station dedicated to authentic storytelling and artistic expression.

We explore:

✅ How immigration shapes identity and belonging

✅ The effects of capitalist healthcare on marginalized communities

✅ The role of tawakkul (trust in Allah) in overcoming societal challenges

✅ The importance of independent media in amplifying unheard voices

📻 Whether you're passionate about social justice, immigration, or the intersection of faith and resilience, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

🔗 Listen to The SZ Show on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sz-show/id1657897064

📌 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

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#TheSZShow #Podcast #ImmigrationStories #CapitalistHealthcare #Tawakkul #FaithAndResilience #WZRDChicago #IndependentMedia #CommunityPower

Welcome to another inspiring episode of our podcast! Today, we sit down with Ricky Rivera, a passionate videographer and Hispanic Muslim revert, to delve into his transformative journey to Islam. Ricky shares his personal struggles and triumphs as he navigated life in the Chicago public education system, ultimately finding purpose and meaning through his relationship with deen.

Join us as Ricky talks about: His early life and experiences in Chicago’s public schools. The pivotal moments that led him to embrace Islam. His views on the importance of Islam in finding purpose and direction. Advice and insights for other reverts and those interested in learning more about Islam. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation filled with valuable lessons and inspiring insights.

Subscribe to our channel for more episodes featuring personal stories of faith, creativity, and the quest for purpose. Watch Now and Join the Conversation! Instagram: @thesz.show Tiktok: theszshow

Join us for Episode 11 of our Japanese-Turkish-English Podcast as we delve into the fascinating topic of Islam in Japan with our special guest, Imam Muhammet. In this episode, we explore the unique journey of Islam's presence and growth in Japan, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs faced by the Muslim community.

Imam Muhammet, a respected leader and scholar, shares his insights on the history, culture, and contemporary issues surrounding Islam in Japan. From the early days of Muslim immigrants to the current efforts in building a cohesive community, we discuss the evolving landscape of religious diversity in a predominantly non-Muslim country.

This episode offers a rich blend of perspectives, featuring conversations in Japanese, Turkish, and English, making it accessible and engaging for a diverse audience. Whether you're interested in religious studies, cultural integration, or simply curious about the Muslim experience in Japan, this episode promises to be an enlightening and thought-provoking listen.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how Islam is practiced and perceived in Japan, and the unique contributions of the Japanese Muslim community to the broader societal fabric. Don't miss this compelling conversation with Imam Muhammet on our tri-lingual podcast!

In this powerful episode, we delve into the intricate layers of Palestinian identity, exploring the profound connection between faith, culture, and the resilience of a community grappling with the ongoing challenges in Gaza, the West Bank, and Palestine at large. Join us as we amplify voices that often go unheard, shedding light on the lived experiences of being Palestinian and Muslim in today's world.

Check out @iammoeemullaa also known as Ahmed M Sbeih, at https://www.instagram.com/iammoeemullaa/

Check us out at instagram.com/thesz.show

Our featured guest is an influential figure deeply rooted in the Palestinian diaspora. He shares personal stories of navigating life, faith, and the challenges of preserving cultural identity. We'll explore the ways in which being grounded in faith plays a pivotal role in shaping the narratives and collective consciousness of the Palestinian people. But the conversation doesn't stop there. We also pivot to the vibrant world of Chicago Rap, exploring the intersection of music and activism.

Discover how hip-hop becomes a powerful tool for expressing solidarity and advocating for change. As we discuss the pressing issues in the region, we will not shy away from addressing the current crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. This episode aims to inspire empathy, understanding, and a call to action as we stand in solidarity with those affected by the ongoing struggles in Palestine. Tune in today! Out on all platforms.

Chicago podcast, resistance podcast, Muslim podcast, Islam, The SZ Show

This episode is recorded entirely in a mix of urdu and english. Instagram: @thesz.show

Join us for an eye-opening episode of "Capturing Success," where we delve into the vibrant world of photography and the remarkable business boom within the Muslim and South Asian communities in Lombard, Illinois. Our host, Salman Zubairy, sits down with inspiring entrepreneurs who have harnessed the power of visual storytelling to showcase the evolution of their businesses and the rich tapestry of their cultural heritage. In this episode, we'll hear firsthand accounts from photographers, business owners, and community leaders who have contributed to the rising tide of economic prosperity in Lombard. Through powerful narratives and captivating images, we'll explore the fusion of art, entrepreneurship, and cultural identity.

Our guests will share the challenges they faced and the strategies they employed to build thriving enterprises. They'll discuss how photography has played a pivotal role in their branding, marketing, and communication efforts. We'll learn about the art of capturing authentic moments that resonate with both local and global audiences, fostering connections that transcend borders. Additionally, we'll explore the unique ways in which Muslim and South Asian businesses have nurtured a strong sense of community, creating a network of support and collaboration that has propelled their collective growth. We'll celebrate the impact of inclusive business practices that have not only contributed to the local economy but also fostered a sense of unity in a culturally diverse environment. During the episode, we'll also touch upon how these entrepreneurs have integrated modern technology and social media into their photography and business strategies. From leveraging the power of Instagram to connect with potential clients worldwide to using innovative photography techniques to enhance product displays and e-commerce, their entrepreneurial acumen knows no bounds.

Moreover, our guests will share their insights into the evolving landscape of photography in the digital age, the importance of continuous learning, and the role of mentorship in nurturing future talent within the community. Listeners of "Capturing Success" will walk away inspired by the stories of triumph, resilience, and creativity that have shaped Lombard's Muslim and South Asian business boom. We hope that this episode will not only shed light on the business prowess within these communities but also foster a greater understanding of the power of photography in transcending cultural boundaries and driving economic growth. So, tune in to this captivating episode as we embark on a visual journey through the lens of Lombard's dynamic Muslim and South Asian entrepreneurs, proving that success is truly an art form worth capturing.

In this thought-provoking episode of The SZ Show, we delve deep into the intricate dynamics of cycles of violence and issues around national origin. Hosted by your engaging and insightful host, Salman Zubairy, we embark on a journey to explore the role of factors such as cultural norms, and intergenerational trauma, we gain a deeper understanding of what shapes violence and its lasting impact.In addition, we explore potential solutions and initiatives that can break these destructive cycles. We also discuss the importance of fostering cross-cultural understanding, promoting dialogue, and addressing systemic issues to create lasting change.Tune in to Episode 7 of The SZ Show, where we confront the challenging questions surrounding cycles of violence and national origin. Join us as we shed light on this crucial topic, encouraging listeners to engage in meaningful conversations and work towards a more peaceful and inclusive future for all.