The Path We Choose

Umer Farooque

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Self-Improvement
Updated weekly

Exploring who we become through the path we choose.

6 days ago

The Hidden Cost of Chasing Dunya | Khalid Mehmood Abbasi | Ep. 29

In this thought-provoking episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Khalid Sahib to explore how a true human purpose often diverges from societal expectations and traditional life cycles. Khalid Sahib dives deep into why most people follow corporate, marital, and modern trends blindly while failing to nurture the unique spiritual potential installed within their conscience. The conversation uncovers how human nature, the Quran, and the struggles of the prophets reveal patterns for living a targeted life over a routine lifestyle. Khalid Sahib explains why reproducing inherited social norms isn’t enough, how to break free from surface-level thinking through trials, and why establishing a deep connection with the Quran and Sunnah is crucial for practical guidance. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why the masses follow social trends and rarely think out of the box • How mental shocks and life experiences mature a person's intellect toward perfection • The role of the Sunnah in defining structural clarity and ease in religious practices • Why reading the Quran with contextual comprehension is crucial for true guidance • How to build a balanced life purpose while fulfilling familial and financial obligations • Lessons from the life of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) regarding personal struggle and Jihad of thought Whether you’re a student, a young professional seeking clarity, or someone navigating the noise of sectarian divisions, this episode challenges you to critical thinking, align your lifestyle with authentic faith, and create an impact that transcends worldly milestones. Follow Khalid Mehmood: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khalidmehmoodabbasiofficial/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KhalidMehmoodAbbasiOfficial Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose: 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 faith, identity, purpose, and the path we choose.
6 Jul

Is the Quran Not Enough? | Sheraz Butt | Ep. 28

Is the Quran enough on its own, or can it never be separated from the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ? In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Sheraz Butt for a deep conversation on faith, the Quran, Sunnah, social media da’wah, and the way Islam is understood today. Sheraz explains why he believes there is a growing mindset trying to separate the Quran from the Sunnah, and why that creates confusion for Muslims trying to understand their deen. He speaks about the danger of taking Islam out of context, choosing only the parts of religion that feel convenient, and treating deen like something we can customize. This conversation also goes into Sheraz’s personal journey with the Quran, why learning Arabic changed the way he understood Allah’s words, how social media can be used to multiply good deeds, and why every person with a platform has to be careful with what they say. The episode also touches on ego, fame, Shaitan’s attacks, staying humble, standing up for truth, and the constant battle of trying to live sincerely for Allah while being seen by people. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why Quran and Sunnah cannot be separated • The danger of taking Islam out of context • Why Islam is not something we pick and choose from • How learning Quranic Arabic changes your understanding • Why social media da’wah is a responsibility • How fame and recognition can become a test • Why sincerity matters more than public image • How Shaitan attacks through ego, distraction, and desire • Why holding onto faith today takes real strength Whether you are trying to understand the Quran better, struggling with modern debates around Sunnah and Hadith, or simply trying to become more sincere in your relationship with Allah, this episode will make you think deeply about what it really means to follow Islam. Follow Sheraz Butt: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isherazbutt/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC5_cEmM-fhSBVUcOq6_vumQ Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose: 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 faith, identity, purpose, and the path we choose.
29 Jun

The 1% Who Change Generations | Sahil Adeem | Ep. 27

In this thought-provoking episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Sahil Adeem to explore how Allah’s chosen path for us often diverges from the world’s expectations. Sahil dives deep into why most people simply follow the crowd while the rare thinkers—less than 1%—shape generations through independent thought, faith, and purpose. The conversation uncovers how human history, the Quran, and the examples of prophets reveal patterns for living a purposeful life. Sahil explains why reproducing inherited ideas isn’t enough, how to break free from surface-level thinking, and why understanding the “why” and “what” of your actions is crucial for meaningful impact. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why the masses follow and rarely innovate • How independent thinkers change the course of history • The role of faith in guiding your life purpose • Why replication of thought fails in modern times • How to structure your personal purpose aligned with divine guidance • Lessons from prophets and the Quran for actionable insight today Whether you’re a student, young professional, or someone searching for clarity in purpose and action, this episode challenges you to think independently, align your actions with faith, and create impact that transcends generations. Follow Sahil Adeem: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SahilAdeemPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahiladeem_official/ 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, purpose, and independent thinking that challenge the status quo.
25 Jun

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.
20 Jun · Video

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: Chapters 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.
15 Jun · Video

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: Chapters 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.
9 Jun · Video

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: Chapters 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 Jun · Video

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: Chapters 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.

Trailer

The Path We Choose | Trailer

Welcome to The Path We Choose, a podcast built on one simple obsession: Why do people become who they become? Ever since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by the minds behind the stories—the doctors, athletes, scientists, innovators, and everyday people who chose a path and committed their lives to it. That curiosity only grew as I built my publishing company and met individuals from every corner of the world—professional athletes, doctors, top executives, and people leading some of the largest organizations on the planet. The more I talked to them, the more I realized: Everyone’s path is shaped by defining moments, tiny decisions, and powerful motivations. This podcast is my journey to uncover those stories. I’m traveling the world to sit down with fascinating individuals—not the most famous, not the most followed—but the ones with purpose, depth, and something meaningful to leave behind.

Exploring who we become through the path we choose.

Creator

Umer Farooque
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

46
Rating

Explicit

Education

Education

Updated weekly