The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam

How Studying Erykah Badu Helped an Independent Artist Secure a Record Deal

From Sudan to Stardom: This episode features a conversation with Alsarah, the East African retro-pop artist, poet, whose journey from Khartoum to musical success is as inspiring as her soulful sound. She opens up about her roots in Sudan, navigating cultural identity as a Muslim, and how her family's resilience shaped her creative path. Discover how her deep connection to East African traditions and life experiences fueled her rise in the music world and led her to form her own rock band, Alsarah & The Nubatones.
From her early days exploring Sudanese music to embracing African American sounds like gospel, jazz, and blues, Alsarah shares how she built her career as an independent artist from studying greats like Erykau Badu, Learn how she financed her albums, negotiated licensing deals, and took bold steps to preserve her authentic voice amidst industry norms. This episode also dives into her activism for Sudan, her reflections on revolution, and her ability to craft music that transcends borders and genres. Whether you're a fan of cultural exploration, Islam, or simply enjoy authentic artistry, this episode is for you!
Don't miss her heartfelt insights, her latest album "Seasons of the Road," and how she landed a record deal.
Be sure to Rate and Review on Apple Podcast and subscribe to stay tuned for more inspiring tales from artists redefining success and pushing boundaries.
#sudanesemusic #ethnomusicology #eastafricanculture #eastafricamusic
CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro
02:06 - East African Retro Pop Overview
03:59 - Her Genesis Story
10:05 - Moving to America
12:12 - What is "Tarab Music"
13:20 - Discovering African American Music
16:16 - Graduating from Wesleyan University
18:49 - Moving to New York City
22:06 - Starting Her Band Journey
24:34 - Securing A Record Deal
30:09 - Releasing a New Album After 9 years
34:40 - Sudan’s Future Perspectives
35:54 - Alsarah's Music Journey
39:54 - Artists She Wants go on Tour With
42:12 - Outro

How She Built a 156-Unit Real Estate Portfolio in Just 4 Years (Step-By-Step Checklist)

In this episode of The Oasis, Haqq sits down with Yamu Camara, data scientist turned 7 figure real estate investor and Co Founder of DeenVest Capital.
Yamu walks us through her early beginnings in Gambia, where she dealt with abuse and ostracization to landing a fellowship in America and becoming a 7 figure real estate investor.
If you are interested in learning how to get into real estate with minimal funds and the step by step process this episode is for you.
Yamu Takes us through her full process and provides a checklist of the following:
⚫️ Websites to Find Properties
⚫️ Which Banks To Secure Funding
⚫️ How Much Money You Need To Get Started
⚫️ What You Need To Look For Once You Find a Property
⚫️ What Locations Are Good To Invest In
⚫️ Why You Are Losing Money Keeping It in The Bank
Make sure you Rate, Review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcast and wherever you listen to your podcast.
Stay up to date with Yamu Camara and get more real estate & investing tips Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildingwealthfromrentals/
DeenVest Capital: https://deenvestcapital.com/
The Oasis with Haqq Islam Podcast
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I Met My Wife At Umrah:This is Our Story

This episode of The Oasis features a candid and enriching conversation with Ishmael Muhammad and India Y. Ali, a power couple whose journey began during a spiritual pilgrimage to Umrah.
From their first meeting in Mecca to their heartfelt three-hour conversation in Egypt, they share how their love blossomed into a beautiful partnership. Growing up Muslim in Texas, Ishmael reflects on the values that shaped his identity, while India reveals her journey from attorney to co-founder of a community-focused law firm.
Together, they discuss how their shared faith in Islam and commitment to service have strengthened their bond and their mission to empower their community. Whether you're a fan of inspiring love stories, a "90 Day Fiancé" enthusiast, or someone seeking insight into how cultural identity and personal growth intersect with love, this episode is for you.
From navigating life and business together to expanding their vision across borders, Ishmael and India showcase an extraordinary partnership that builds on love, trust, and purpose. They even touch on the importance of estate planning, combating gentrification, and creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
Get ready for a story of love, resilience, and vision that will leave you inspired.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories and thought-provoking conversations. #marriageadvice #umrahexperience #umrahjourney #familydynamics #candidconversationsmarriage
CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro
01:26 - Growing up in Texas
04:53 - College Basketball Journey
08:33 - Transition to Real Estate Career
12:21 - How He Met His Wife
17:10 - Vision for the Law Office of India Y Ali
20:53 - His and India’s Love Story
29:50 - Understanding Trusts
32:53 - Working Together in Business
37:03 - Expansion to Ghana
39:55 - Final Thoughts and Reflections
40:38 - Advice for Married Couples in Business
43:30 - Closing Remarks

Entrepreneur Shareef Abdul Malik on Polygamy: ‘Most Brothers Are Doing It Wrong’ — FULL STORY

Shareef Abdul Malik, Entrepreneur, community leader, and a man whose faith guides his every move. This episode features a conversation with Shareef Abdul Malik as he discusses how Islam and cultural identity have shaped his inspiring entrepreneurial journey. From starting We Buy Black to evolving into Naspora, Malik shares how his passion for uplifting communities and his commitment to creating opportunities for others are rooted in his deep faith and values.
Discover how he navigated challenges, embraced personal growth, and pioneered initiatives that empower the underserved, including his ambitious goal of selling 40 million Naspora boxes filled with products from Black and Muslim-owned businesses. Whether you're intrigued by stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, or the intersection of faith and business, this episode is for you.
Tune in to hear Shareef's reflections on manhood, getting married at 17, marrying a second wife and his unwavering dedication to building a legacy through service. Don’t miss this powerful conversation — make sure to like, comment, and SUBSCRIBE to stay connected with more transformative stories!
#youthmentorship #nasporamission #nasporaplatform #nasporavision #culturalunity #entrepreneurship #buyblack #islamicvalues #naspora #muslimbusiness
CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction
00:41 - Early Life
06:27 - Howard University Experience
08:57 - First Taste of Entrepreneurship
10:58 – Highschool Marriage
18:17 - Leaving College
19:46 - Starting We Buy Black
22:01 - Importance of Education for His Wife
25:41 - Founding We Buy Black
31:37 - Transition from We Buy Black to Naspora
35:04 - Unboxing the Naspora Box
40:00 - Defining Manhood
45:55 - Advice for the Next Generation
51:36 - How You Can Suppor Naspora
53:53 - Outro
The Oasis with Haqq Islam Podcast Subscribe to Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@haqqislamoasis Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-oasis-with-a-haqq-islam/id1740666577 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haqqislamoasis/?hl=en Follow on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haqqislamoasis Oasis Podcast Website: https://www.theoasispodcast.com/
Support Naspora https://naspora.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooEtjFnWcm2NAbucssaJ5kgJ6nwzfohovQV_35q4gG5kKFvPFh1

She Turned Her Father’s Harlem Store Into a Modest Fashion Movement

Step into this heartfelt episode of The Oasis where Haqq sit's down with Kadjahtou Balde, the passionate force behind Modify Thrift- A Harlem based pre love thrift shop. Kadjahtou's story begins long before she ever opened her own shop—it starts with her father, a Harlem staple who ran his store in the neighborhood for years. When she stepped in to carry that legacy forward, she wasn’t just taking over a business she was continuing her family's legacy.
In this intimate conversation, she opens up about the moment she asked herself, What can we build with low overhead that still allows us to thrive? That question sparked the birth of Modify Thrift, a unique space offering modest, sustainable, pre-loved clothing for all women Her mission is rooted in sustainability, accessibility, creativity, and honoring the community that raised her.
You’ll hear how her upbringing shaped her identity, how sustainability became a core value, and how she turned her father’s Harlem hustle into a modern, purpose-driven business. This episode dives deep into themes of family legacy, faith, resilience, entrepreneurship, and reimagining what thrift culture can be. If you’re navigating your own path, dreaming of building something meaningful, or simply love a good story of grit and growth—you’re going to feel right at home here.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and SUBSCRIBE
#thriftshopping #harlemcommunity #modestfashion #muslimfashion #fashionhub
CHAPTERS:
01:07 - Intro
01:59 - Her Early Life
04:02 - College Experience
06:20 - First Job Insights
09:47 - Her Dad’s Business Journey
15:35 - Understanding Modify Thrift
17:43 - Dad's Reaction to Thrift Store Idea
21:10 - The Light Bulb Moment
24:09 - Green Light from Dad
27:50 - Meaning of Modify Thrift
30:34 - Sharing Her Journey Publicly
32:30 - Her Dad's Coolness
34:04 - The Modest Closet Refresh
42:09 - Curating Your Clothes
45:36 - Personal Insights
48:40 - Balancing Responsibilities
50:54 - The Muslim Community Impact
53:25 - What's Next for Modify
 
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How Men Can Still Lead in Marriage — Even When the Wife Is the Breadwinner

In this episode Bilal and Shaeeda stars of 90 Day Fiancé and friends to the room, open up about what it really takes to create balance in modern relationships. From navigating gender roles and cultural expectations to elevating each other in marriage and family life, they share how mutual support and understanding can transform a partnership.
Grounded in their Islamic faith, Bilal and Shaeeda discuss what Islam teaches about the structure of marriage and how couples can find harmony between leadership, love, and respect. Bilal offers real advice to young brothers on how a man can lead and support his family—even when his wife earns more, while Shaeeda reflects on her journey to motherhood after 35 and the joys of blending family life with her creative pursuits.
Together, they explore the power of shared values, humor, and teamwork in overcoming challenges, while touching on how social media and cultural identity shape modern love. Whether you’re inspired by faith, passionate about relationships, or simply seeking better balance in your own life, this conversation is a refreshing and insightful listen.
#familysupport #genderroles #familygrowth #islamicperspectivesonmarriage #empoweringwomeninrelationships
CHAPTERS: 01:08 - Intro
01:59 - Pregnancy After
35 03:33 - DMing Your Husband
06:25 - Being a Mom After
40 07:11 - Blending Families
08:17 - Gender Roles in Relationships
09:55 - Special Guest
18:33 - Money Management
24:33 - Money and Women
27:10 - Balancing Life and Relationships
32:36 - Who Comes Up with The Social Content
36:21 - Update on TV Show Love InshaAllah
40:07 - What’s Next 42:16 - Final Words
 
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Why We’re So Lonely: The Imam Changing How Millennials & Gen Z See Faith and Love

This episode features a heartfelt conversation with Imam Khalid Latif, the visionary leader of the Islamic Center of New York City. Known for his groundbreaking work in interfaith dialogue and community development, Imam Khalid shares his transformative journey from a third culture kid with Kashmiri roots to becoming a leading advocate for spiritual leadership and social justice.
Throughout the episode they discuss the profound concept of transformative love as the cure for a lonely generation, touching on the damaging effects of transactional relationships, the rise of artificial connections, and the importance of meaningful human bonds. With insights into the challenges faced by millennials and Gen Z, the discussion also delves into the intersection of cultural identity, the role of Islam in fostering community, and the resilience required to overcome societal inequities.
Imam Khalid's personal story is filled with inspiration, from his experiences at NYU and Princeton to founding Pillars of Peace, an organization supporting survivors of domestic violence. Learn how he balances advocacy, artistry, and spirituality while building a new chapter for his community in the West Village—a space designed to heal, empower, and unite.
Don’t miss this compelling discussion that will leave you reflecting on the power of love and community in a rapidly changing world.
Be sure to like, comment, and SUBSCRIBE to our channel for more inspiring conversations that elevate diverse voices and perspectives.
#humanconnection #aifriendship #youthengagement #humanconnection #pastoralcare
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
02:56 - Kashmir Conflict
07:37 - First Muslim Chaplain at NYU
12:12 - First Muslim Chaplain at Princeton
19:20 - Teaching Spiritual Leadership
22:05 - Essence of the Islamic Center
26:35 - Importance of Art in Religion
32:44 - Concept of Love
38:30 - Understanding Loneliness
43:46 - Prophet's Wives Attraction
49:16 - Interfaith Dialogue Importance
58:57 - Pillars of Peace
1:02:55 - Relationship with Allah
1:05:39 - Future of ICNYC
1:08:31 - How to Support ICNYC

Why Most Boxers Go Broke and How Julian “J Rock” Williams Avoided It

Step into the inspiring story of Julian “J Rock” Williams in this episode of The Oasis. From the streets of Philadelphia to becoming a world champion boxer, Julian opens up about how his passion for boxing began at just 12 years old—and how his faith in Islam has shaped every step of his journey.
This powerful conversation dives into Julian’s drive, discipline, and resilience, revealing the challenges and triumphs behind a life dedicated to the ring. He shares how mentors guided him early on, the sacrifices he made to pursue greatness, and how his faith taught him patience, gratitude, and humility through the highs and lows of his career.
Julian also reflects on hearing from older boxers who lost their fortunes—and how those lessons inspired him to be smarter with his money, leading him to invest in real estate to secure his future. Plus, he recounts the story of his most challenging fight, offering an inside look at the mental and emotional battles that come with championship-level boxing.
Whether it’s his reflections on family, cultural identity, or the discipline it takes to stay at the top, Julian’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and personal growth. If you’re a fan of stories about faith, ambition, and overcoming adversity, this is a must-watch episode.
#boxingjourney #muslimboxers #boxingjourney #boxingjourney #boxingjourney
 
CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro
08:32 - How to Become a Professional Boxer
11:57 - Islam and Faith
15:31 - His Most Challenging Fight
21:20 - His Wife's Impact
26:50 - Future Plans: What’s Next
32:10 - J-Rock's Future Prospects
33:40 - Aspirations for His Daughters
37:30 - Advice for 18-Year-Old J-Rock
40:38 - J-Rock on Palestine
42:53 - Closing Thoughts
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What Traveling 50+ Countries Taught Me About Courage & Sitting at the World’s Most Powerful Tables

In this episode Haqq Islam sits down with the extraordinary Abir Ibrahim, a development economist, public historian, and author of *“Love Letters to Sudan.” Together, they explore Sudan's complex cultural identity, history, and legacy as the cradle of civilization. Abir shares her journey of balancing a multifaceted identity shaped by Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.
This engaging conversation dives deep into Sudan’s ancient history—its rich Kushite civilization, its role in world history, and the societal challenges that have stemmed from colonial fragmentation. Abir opens up about growing up in a family with ties to literary revolutions, her time working in the development sector, and her groundbreaking travels across 50+ countries. She also reflects on her first job in the field—as a Peace Corps volunteer in Tanzania and how that transformative experience sparked her lifelong commitment to development work, cultural connection, and empowering communities across the globe.
Beyond history and heritage, Abir reflects on what it means to find the courage to step outside what’s familiar and beyond family expectations, to take up space in rooms that once felt intimidating or out of reach. She shares how embracing her voice and purpose has allowed her to stand confidently at powerful tables and encourage others to do the same, reminding listeners that they, too, have something valuable to offer wherever they go.
Abir also discusses her upcoming book, Stolen Genius, which highlights African innovations and their impact on the world, challenging narratives of erasure and reclaiming stories of brilliance and creativity.
Whether you’re curious about African history, cultural resilience, or stories of empowerment, this episode is for you.
 
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Abir Ibrahim Website: abiribrahim.com
 

Can This Fragrance Shop Help You Find Love?NBA Legend Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf Gets His Perfect Scent Here

In this episode, Haqq sits down with Aarfat Khazi, the owner of the New Jersey fragrance store, The Misk Shoppe. It also happens to be the same place where NBA legend Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf gets his signature scent.
Aarfat shares how losing his job in IT unexpectedly set him on a new path into the world of fragrance. From humble beginnings, starting with pop-ups and an online store. The Misk Shoppe has grown into a thriving fragrance business that now serves customers from around the world.
The conversation explores why fragrance holds such a special place in Muslim culture, dives into the rich history of Oud, and offers a breakdown of different types of scents. Aarfat gives a glimpse into his world, showing how fragrance is more than just smell—it’s tied to memory and emotion in powerful ways.
He also brings in his collection of specialty Ouds and fragrances for an in-studio scent experience. And there’s a surprise appearance from Producer Jazlyn “Quincy Jazz” Porter, who gets gifted her own custom fragrance, though Aarfat and Haqq have some playful ideas about what it might do beyond just smelling good.
Tune in to this episode if you're a fragrance lover curious about the world of perfumery, or an aspiring entrepreneur looking for inspiration on how to pivot and grow with purpose. Aarfat’s journey proves that if you have a passion for something and work hard, you can build something truly meaningful.
Visit The Misk Shoppe, located near Princeton University: 344 Georges Rd, Dayton, NJ 08810
Don’t miss out—like, comment, and SUBSCRIBE to join the conversation and keep discovering more captivating stories like this!
#scentmemories #perfumeculture #floralscents #oudfragrance #citrusnotes #scentmarketing #personalscents #oudcollection #oudfragrance #culturalscents
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - INTRO
02:23 - Why Muslims Smell Good: Cultural Significance
04:14 - Life In India
09:46 - Meeting My Wife
12:38 - Love at First Sight
21:04 - Selling Perfume Online
23:14 - Understanding Scents
24:05 - The History of Oud
27:48 - Clientele: Building a Customer Base
31:10 - Social Media: Marketing Strategies
31:53 - Business Operations: Who Runs It
40:15 - Meeting Mahmoud: A Key Connection
43:50 - Introducing Producer Quincy Jazz
44:43 - Can Fragrances Help You Find Love?
46:37 - Fragrance for Gaddafi
48:59 - Fragrance for Mahmoud
55:50 - Scents and Meditation
56:40 - The Power of Scent
57:15 - Scent and Memory
57:38 - Outro