The Thinking Youth

Is the Sunni–Shia Debate… FINALLY Over? Sectarian divisions have long shaped Muslim discourse. But in an age of global crises and unprecedented pressure on the Ummah, the real question is this: how do Muslims today, and especially Muslim youth, navigate these differences while facing the realities of the modern world?In this unflinching conversation, Imam Tom joins us to confront the questions that are too often left untouched:• How do we approach the Sunni–Shia divide and broader intra-Muslim debates?• Why is Imam Hussein (RA) so rarely spoken about in Sunni mosques? What do we lose by neglecting his martyrdom?• Can Muslims confront the painful episodes of Islamic history with honesty and justice?• Why do we invest more in interfaith dialogue than in intra-faith conversations?• Who should we take knowledge from, and has the “don’t take from xyz scholar” discourse gone too far?• Can we pursue a unity of purpose without agreeing on every detail?At the heart of this discussion lies another crucial question: how do we interact across our differences in a way that does not compromise our Ummatic principle; love for the Sahabah, reverence for Ahlul Bayt, respect for the scholars, the pursuit of justice, and above all the call to Tawheed and love for the Messenger ﷺ?From Sufi–Salafi debates, to the notion of a “Salafi Mawlid,” to the lighter question of whether chocolate from an “innovator” is really off-limits, this conversation blends seriousness with candid moments while always returning to the central concern: what kind of Ummah are we striving to build? This is not simply another debate. It is a call to reflect deeply, to stand consistently on principle, and to imagine a stronger, more united Ummah in a divided world.Follow us on:IG: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingyouthpod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thinkingyouthpodSubscribe to our Youtube channel for more: https://www.youtube.com/@thethinkingyouthSubscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheThinkingMuslimDisclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on The Thinking Youth we are joined by Aber Kawasor a wide-ranging conversation on faith, politics, organizing, and the future of progressive movements in America.Aber Kawas is a community organizer, democratic socialist, and candidate for the New York State Senate. In this episode, we discuss what motivates her political work, the role of Muslim ethics in public service, the impact of the genocide in Gaza on American politics, and whether a new political realignment is emerging across the country.We also explore the influence of money in politics, AIPAC's role in electoral races, the rise of the "Mamdani Moment," state-level policymaking, voter perceptions, and Aber's personal experience navigating the ICE deportation process. The conversation concludes with advice for young people looking to enter politics and the books that have most influenced her worldview.Whether you're interested in grassroots organizing, electoral politics, or the intersection of faith and public life, this episode offers an insightful look into the ideas shaping a new generation of political leaders.Let us know what you think of the discussion in the comments below! Follow Aber Kawas here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aberkawas/?hl=en-gbFollow us on: IG: / thinkingyouthpod TikTok: / thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / @thethinkingyouth Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: / @thethinkingmuslim Subscribe to Mosaab's Substack: https://notmosaad.substack.comSubscribe to Arhaam's Substack: https://substack.com/@mohammadarhaamm...Disclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Thinking Youth, we sit down with Mahfuz Talukder for a deep and wide-ranging conversation on the changing global order, the decline of unipolar Western dominance, and the emergence of China as a civilisational and geopolitical superpower. As the balance of power shifts eastward, we explore what this transformation could mean for the Muslim world politically, economically, and strategically. Especially on today's key visit of US President Trump to China... the world is watching closely. Together, we examine whether the world is entering a catastrophic shift and whether Muslim-majority nations are prepared to navigate it with clarity and long-term vision. The discussion explores China’s growing influence, the opportunities this presents for Muslim states, and the difficult moral and political questions that inevitably arise alongside strategic alliances.We also confront some of the most pressing issues of our time: the treatment of Uyghur Muslims, the question of Taiwan, Xi Jinping’s long-term ambitions, and whether China’s current restraint on the global stage is temporary or strategic. Beyond statecraft and diplomacy, the conversation reflects on hard power, economic leverage, civilisational confidence, and the realities of building alternative alliances in a rapidly changing world.As global instability intensifies and old assumptions begin to collapse, this episode asks a critical question: are we witnessing the beginning of a new world order - and if so, what place will the Muslim world occupy within it?Comment your thoughts below !Follow NewsBaba on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@mahfuztalukderSubscribe for more conversations on geopolitics, strategy, and the ideas shaping our world.Follow us on: IG: / thinkingyouthpod TikTok: / thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / @thethinkingyouth Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: / @thethinkingmuslim Subscribe to Mosaab's Substack: https://notmosaad.substack.comSubscribe to Arhaam's Substack: https://substack.com/@mohammadarhaamm...Disclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Thinking Youth, we are joined by Sami Hamdi to dive into some of the most pressing emotional and spiritual challenges facing young Muslims today.We begin with a powerful introduction before addressing the reality of open hatred and Islamophobia, including how to respond when individuals like Valentina Gomez and others publicly express hostility toward Muslims. This segment focuses on speaking with wisdom, strength, and purpose when addressing wider audiences.As the conversation deepens, we explore the concept of a mindset shift granted by Allah (Swt). What does it mean to be spiritually aware? And how often are we blind to guidance that’s right in front of us? This section invites reflection on faith, growth, and self-awareness.Finally, we turn inward to examine the role of parents in shaping who we are today - from our beliefs and values to our political perspectives. How should we navigate disagreements? What does Islam teach us about maintaining respect while thinking independently?This episode is a call to reflect, grow, and engage thoughtfully with both the world around us and our inner selves. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!Follow Sami Hamdi here:X: https://x.com/SALHACHIMIInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/salhachimi/?hl=enSubscribe for more conversations on geopolitics, strategy, and the ideas shaping our world.Follow us on: IG: / thinkingyouthpod TikTok: / thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / @thethinkingyouth Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: / @thethinkingmuslim Subscribe to Mosaab's Substack: https://notmosaad.substack.comSubscribe to Arhaam's Substack: https://substack.com/@mohammadarhaamm...Disclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Middle East and the Muslim world is shifting, and most of the conversation around it still misses what actually matters. In this episode, we sit down with Mahfuz Talukder, known as NewsBaba, a fast rising geopolitical analyst with nearly 500,000 followers on TikTok and hundreds of millions of views, to break down what is really going on behind the headlines.We look at the Strait of Hormuz, US–Iran tensions, Israel’s position, and the idea of a “Muslim NATO,” but more importantly, we step back and ask a deeper question. How should we even be thinking about politics in the first place?Too much of today’s political conversation is driven by emotion, reaction, and simple binaries. Who is right, who is wrong. Who we support, who we oppose. But geopolitics does not work like that. It is not about what we feel. It is about incentives, power, strategy, and decisions made by states acting in their own interests.That is where the gap is.Activism matters. Raising awareness matters. But it is not enough on its own. We have to go a step further into analysis. Into understanding why things happen, not just reacting to them after the fact.How many Muslim analysts can we actually name?How many Muslim strategic thinkers are shaping how we understand the world?This is something we are missing, and it has real consequences. Because if we want to see meaningful change in the Muslim world, in the Middle East, and globally, then we need to be able to think clearly about the world as it is. Not how we want it to be.This conversation is an attempt to move in that direction. To step away from noise, bias, and surface level takes, and to start thinking in a more grounded, structured way about geopolitics and power.In this episode:Strait of Hormuz and its global importanceUS–Iran tensions and regional strategyIsrael’s role and strategic pressureThe idea of a Muslim NATOWhy political analysis is missingWhy emotion is not enough in geopoliticsFollow NewsBaba on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@mahfuztalukderSubscribe for more conversations on geopolitics, strategy, and the ideas shaping our world.Follow us on: IG: / thinkingyouthpod TikTok: / thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / @thethinkingyouth Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: / @thethinkingmuslim Subscribe to Mosaab's Substack: https://notmosaad.substack.comSubscribe to Arhaam's Substack: https://substack.com/@mohammadarhaamm...Disclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iran on the BRINK of a US Ground Invasion (Date of Recording: March 7th)In this episode of Thinking Youth Podcast, we speak with Sharghzadeh about the escalating conflict surrounding Iran, the human cost of war, and the intense divisions within the Iranian diaspora.While global media focuses on geopolitics, sanctions, and military strategy, ordinary people inside Iran are living through drone strikes, missile attacks, and uncertainty about what comes next. Sharghzadeh shares what life looks like in Tehran today, the messages he receives from people on the ground, and why the conversation about Iran is far more complex than the narratives dominating Western (or Eastern) media.The discussion explores the moral dilemma facing many Iranians today: opposing their government while still rejecting foreign bombing and war against their country. It also examines why some diaspora voices appear to celebrate attacks on Iran, the political movement surrounding Reza Pahlavi, and the growing polarization shaping Iranian political discourse.Beyond the headlines, the episode asks deeper questions about human dignity, propaganda, and the danger of reducing entire nations to abstract geopolitical conflicts. As Sharghzadeh puts it, “innocent people are people, and haqq is haqq.”The conversation also touches on the possibility of a wider regional war, the rhetoric surrounding a potential US ground invasion, and what the world often misunderstands about Iranian society and its people. As Kharg Island get's attacked, who knows what happens next? In this episode we discuss:- What daily life looks like in Tehran during missile strikes- Why some diaspora activists celebrate attacks on Iran- The moral dilemma of opposing a government while opposing war- Reza Pahlavi and the politics of regime change- Islamophobia and polarization in diaspora political movements- The risk of a broader regional war or ground invasion- What the world often misunderstands about Iran and its peopleFollow us on: IG: / thinkingyouthpod TikTok: / thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / @thethinkingyouth Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: / @thethinkingmuslim Subscribe to Mosaab's Substack: https://notmosaad.substack.comSubscribe to Arhaam's Substack: https://substack.com/@mohammadarhaamm...Disclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Thinking Youth Podcast, we sit down with journalist Mohammed Saleh to examine one of the most debated geopolitical developments shaping the Muslim world today.How organic is the rise of Emirati influencers online?Is state sponsored influence new in the UAE?And how have connections formed between the UAE, Israel, and segments of the Western Far Right?This conversation explores strategy, influence, and power beyond headlines. From coordinated messaging to regional realignments, we analyse whether what we are witnessing is coincidence or coordination.We discuss the growth of Emirati influencer networks, state linked disinformation strategies, regional foreign policy shifts, and the broader implications for the Ummah.The episode also examines the contrast between Dubai’s global image and Abu Dhabi’s political positioning, the idea of the UAE as a strategic political actor, and the boundaries of expression within the state.Most importantly, we ask a forward looking question. What would it mean for the Muslim world if regional powers pursued legitimacy through reform rather than confrontation?This is a serious conversation about power, alliances, and long term consequences.Watch until the end as we explore whether a different political path could reshape regional dynamics.Follow us on: IG:  / thinkingyouthpod  TikTok:  / thinkingyouthpod  Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more:  / @thethinkingyouth  Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast:  / @thethinkingmuslim  Subscribe to Mosaab's Substack: https://notmosaad.substack.comSubscribe to Arhaam's Substack: https://substack.com/@mohammadarhaamm...Disclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Thinking Youth, we sit down with attorney and activist Musab Abdali, who works with the Oak Cliff Empowerment Center serving one of Texas’ most underprivileged communities. Together, we explore the challenges and opportunities facing Islam in America - from the role of dawah in inner-city neighborhoods to the impact of class, capitalism, and community-building on our faith and spirituality.We also reflect on the legacy of Malcolm X and consider what his insights could teach Muslims today about unity, division, and claiming greatness in the Muslim American community. Musab shares personal experiences, wisdom, and the books that have shaped his journey, offering a unique perspective on the future of Islam in the U.S. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Thinking Youth Podcast, we speak with Dr. Daanish Mahmood about productivity, procrastination, addiction, discipline, and faith.We start by diagnosing why so many people feel lazy, unmotivated, and constantly behind despite knowing exactly what they need to do. Dr. Daanish explains how procrastination is rooted in fear, how modern apps are deliberately designed to hijack attention, and why endless scrolling quietly destroys discipline and focus.The conversation then moves into practical systems that actually work. Daily planning, breaking tasks into frictionless steps, designing an inviting workspace, managing decision fatigue, habit cues, caffeine timing, and making good habits easier than bad ones. This is not motivational talk. It is behavioural strategy grounded in real life.We also explore discipline through faith. The role of Fajr in building consistency, why Islam is a religion of structure, and how the Quran is meant for everyone through reflection and tadabbur, not only for scholars. The discussion highlights how routine, identity, and worship shape long-term change.Difficult topics are addressed directly. Pornography exposure at a young age, addiction cycles, shame, relapse, and why Islam never closes the door on transformation. Dr. Daanish speaks openly about recovery, salah, and how real change happens gradually, not overnight.We close with mental health. Anxiety, depression, therapy, and faith are not in opposition. Seeking professional help is encouraged, and waiting until things become unbearable is often the real problem.This episode is for anyone struggling with distraction, burnout, bad habits, or a loss of structure and purpose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are Muslims losing agency over their own identity? Who defines what is anti-Islam? Today we are seeing the system label and choose who it considers a "good Muslim" and who it considers a "bad Muslim" in a way that strips agency from Muslims. We are very good at identifying confrontational Islamphobia, but are we identifying the silent secularization of Islamophobia?This discourse happens as New York City elects its first Muslim mayor. Zohran Mamdani — an excellent political communicator, state elected official, and known for his pro Palestine rhetoric — is set to take office in the coming days. What does the Good Muslim/Bad Muslim mean in terms of representation of Muslims in politics?With us, we have former Zohran intern Hadeeqa Malik, a Muslim student who was suspended for alleged Islamophobia. Her offense was calling on Muslim NYPD officers to respect their names and stand for Palestine. We explore what the Zohran win means for NYC and Muslims at large.You can support Hadeeqa's fight for justice here: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/hadeeqa/Follow us on: IG: / https://www.instagram.com/thinkingyouthpod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / https://www.youtube.com/@thethinkingyouthSubscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: /https://www.youtube.com/@TheThinkingMuslimDisclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Usama Ghanem is a 22 year old student at King’s College London. In just a few days, the university intends to revoke his visa and remove him from the country. His “crime” is simple. He spoke out against the genocide in Gaza and criticised his university’s financial ties to companies enabling it.For this, he was doxxed, targeted, beaten by security during a peaceful protest, and is now facing deportation.In this episode, Usama walks us through the full story. From the moment he challenged KCL’s decision to reward the very company linked to the killing of a Palestinian Alumnus, to the harsh retaliation that followed. He explains how universities across the UK are cracking down on Muslim students, how rules are being ignored, and why speaking truth in this moment carries real personal risk.We also talk about faith, courage, and conviction. Usama reflects on how Allah strengthens the hearts of those who stand firm, and why he is certain—both about his own case and about the justice of the cause—that victory is near.To learn more or support Usama’s case, visit CAGE’s campaign page:https://www.cage.ngo/campaigns/kcl---reinstate-usama-nowB-roll footage in this episode includes media from:https://www.instagram.com/solidarity.diary/?hl=enThis is a story about repression, resistance, and the price of speaking the truth.Watch until the end.Follow us on: IG: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingyouthpod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thinkingyouthpodSubscribe to our Youtube channel for more: https://www.youtube.com/@thethinkingyouthSubscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheThinkingMuslimDisclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch this when you’re sad, when you’re hurt, when you’re worried, when your heart feels heavy.Learn how to start the journey of being strong when you’re heartbroken, how to find peace again, and how to build true resilience through faith. In this powerful and emotional episode, Imam AbdulRahman Khattab shares how to reconnect with Allah when life feels unbearable, how to trust His plan when everything falls apart, and how to find strength when you feel like giving up. He takes us through the stories of believers who never gave up, from the youth who changed empires in Makkah to the barefoot man in Gaza who stands before a tank with nothing but faith. We talked about Musa (AS) and what it means to be chosen through trials, about the bravery it takes to stand firm in the darkest moments, and about the quiet power of Sumud, unshakable steadfastness.This is not just a conversation; it’s a journey through pain, patience, and the power of believing that the One standing with you is the Unbreakable. Have you ever felt like your duas aren’t being answered? Have you ever felt fake, or felt like a hypocrite?If you’ve ever felt lost, anxious, heartbroken, or far from Allah, this is the reminder you’ve been searching for. While these issues are complex, complicated, and more than just about slogans and immediate solutions, we hope this eases the hearts of those that watch. And a message to everyone who wants to take that leap of resilience. Every young Muslim should watch this.Follow us on: IG: / thinkingyouthpod TikTok: / thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / @thethinkingyouth Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: / @thethinkingmuslim Help us expand our Muslim media project here: / https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipDisclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Thinking Youth Podcast, we sit down with Danial Farrukh - former national director of Young Muslims, an author and community organiser. In this episode we unpack what it truly means to be a leader in today’s world. We explore the courage it takes to step out of your comfort zone, stand on the right side of history, and embody the principles you preach. Danial reflects on the essence of sacrifice - reminding us that Allah does not need our sacrifices, but that through them, we shape our own character, conviction, and legacy.Follow us on: IG: / thinkingyouthpod TikTok: / thinkingyouthpod Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more: / @thethinkingyouth Subscribe to the Thinking Muslim Podcast: / @thethinkingmuslim Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.