Hearts Connect

Sekina Yakub
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  • Islam
  • Updated Weekly

Based on the book Hearts Connect, which shares the real-life stories of people (mostly from African and Afro-Caribbean backgrounds in the UK) who converted to Islam in the 1990s/2000s. The Hearts Connect show is a self-development and spiritually grounded podcast that explores themes of personal growth, emotional healing, and marriage through the lens of Islamic values. It’s rooted in authentic storytelling, spiritual journeys, and the pursuit of healthy relationships with oneself, Allah (God), and others.

  1. Sep 21

    You’re Not Falling Behind. You’re Becoming Who Allah Made You. I ft. Rumaanah Rameez I S3 Ep8

    I'm your host, Sekina Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Rumaanah Rameez for a heartfelt conversation about faith, identity, representation, purpose, love, and navigating life as a young Muslim woman in the West. Rumaanah shares her journey from studying law and politics into policing, while pursuing her passion for writing and storytelling. We explore connection through faith, the Qur’an, prayer, reflection, and the importance of creating representation for Muslim women and ethnic minorities. We also talk about the ups and downs of faith, comparison, hijab, cultural identity, giving yourself grace, and finding your way back to Allah when life feels overwhelming. Rumaanah shares the inspiration behind her book Not Your Expected Hijabi and reflects on love, identity, culture, and the experiences that shape us. At the heart of this conversation is a reminder that faith is a journey — and whenever we lose our way, we can always return to Allah. Takeaways Finding connection through faith, relationships, and self-reflectionUsing storytelling to create representation and challenge stereotypesFinding purpose through your career, creativity, and passionsStaying grounded through salah, the Qur’an, journaling, and reflectionNavigating the ups and downs of faith with grace and patienceLetting go of comparison and the pressure to be “perfect”Balancing faith, culture, identity, and personal goalsNavigating life as a Muslim woman in the WestUnderstanding love beyond romance — including love for Allah, ourselves, family, and othersRemembering that faith is a journey and we can always return to Allah Chapters 00:11 Introduction to Unique Journeys 01:22 Romana's Background and Passion for Writing 03:40 The Meaning of Connection 08:02 Defining Moments and Personal Growth 11:06 Misunderstandings and Societal Expectations 15:27 Daily Rituals and Productivity 20:42 Challenges in Faith and Purpose 23:51 The Journey of Self-Reflection and Growth 30:21 Navigating Identity and Spirituality 37:57 Understanding Love in Its Many Forms About the Podcast The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, spiritual growth, intentional living, relationships, and the many journeys that bring our hearts closer to Allah. #HeartsConnect #HeartsConnectPodcast #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #MuslimWomen #Hijabi #Islam #MuslimCommunity #RepresentationMatters #MuslimAuthors #WritingCommunity #SelfReflection #Salah #Prayer #Tawakkul #SpiritualGrowth #Identity #MuslimIdentity #YoungMuslims #Love #SelfDiscovery #PersonalGrowth #Quran #FaithAndCulture #NotYourExpectedHijabi

  2. Sep 14

    The Hidden Power of Subconscious Beliefs. I ft. Diana I S3 Ep7

    I'm your host, Sekina Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Diana Alghoul for a powerful conversation about self-knowledge, faith, identity, healing, emotions, the subconscious mind, tawakkul, and love. Diana shares her journey from journalism into hypnotherapy, reflecting on how her experiences shaped her understanding of herself, her faith, and the deeper beliefs that influence how we show up in the world. She explores what it means to truly know yourself, let go of identities that no longer serve you, and trust what is already within you. We also talk about emotional healing, learning to listen to the body, creating safe spaces to process difficult emotions, and moving beyond “good vibes only.” Diana reflects on her journey back to Islam, the importance of seeking knowledge, daily spiritual practices, solitude, self-love, people-pleasing, and learning to trust yourself. Throughout the conversation, we return to the importance of keeping Allah at the centre — and remembering that whatever we face, Allahu Akbar. Takeaways Understanding what it means to truly know yourselfLetting go of identities and beliefs that no longer serve youThe relationship between the subconscious mind, beliefs, and behaviourFaith, questioning, seeking knowledge, and returning to AllahThe importance of emotional awareness and healthy emotional processingListening to your body and learning to trust yourselfCreating safe spaces for healing and self-reflectionSolitude, introversion, and reconnecting with yourselfSelf-love, people-pleasing, rejection, and healthy boundariesBalancing personal goals with spiritual valuesUnderstanding hypnotherapy and the subconscious mindKeeping Allah at the centre through tawakkul and surrender Chapters 00:12 Introduction to Diana's Journey01:21 The Deep Connection Between Subconscious and Faith03:01 Memory and Its Impact on Behavior04:18 Defining Self: Spirituality, Rationality, and Lightheartedness04:41 Knowing Yourself to Know Allah07:12 The Facets of Self and Contextual Behavior07:49 A Defining Moment During COVID09:15 Letting Go and Trusting Allah11:09 The Expanding Universe and Self-Development12:04 Light Within: Bringing Out Inner Potential14:51 Misunderstandings About Diana’s Practice18:29 Daily Practices for Spiritual and Mental Well-being25:22 Rediscovering Faith and the Power of Allah33:52 The Role of Solitude and Reflection39:13 Love, Self-Love, and Conditioning43:25 Final Words and Advice from Diana About the Podcast The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, spiritual growth, and intentional living. #HeartsConnect #HeartsConnectPodcast #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #SelfKnowledge #HealingJourney #Hypnotherapy #Tawakkul #Islam #MuslimCommunity #SpiritualGrowth #SelfDiscovery #SelfAwareness #SelfLove #InnerWork #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalHealing #Love

  3. Sep 10

    When We Stop Seeing Humanity, the Ummah Suffers. I ft. Rukayat Yakub I S3 Ep6

    I'm your host, Sekina Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Rukayat Yakub for a powerful conversation about belonging, faith, identity, community, anti-blackness, heart work, and love. Rukayat shares her journey between the UK, Nigeria, and the US, reflecting on how different communities, mentors, unexpected encounters, and periods of solitude shaped her relationship with Islam. She discusses the difference between fitting in and truly belonging, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel safe to be their authentic selves. Rukayat also explores her work around anti-blackness and the Islamic concept of tazkiyah — purifying the heart and examining the beliefs and biases we carry. She reflects on history, systems of oppression, asking who benefits, and approaching difficult conversations with curiosity rather than blame. We also talk about loneliness, spiritual growth, aligning personal goals with faith, and the transformative power of love. Takeaways The difference between belonging and simply fitting inCreating safe spaces where people can be authenticThe role of community and connection in strengthening faithMigration, identity, loneliness, and finding belongingUnderstanding anti-blackness and the systems that uphold itTazkiyah and the importance of heart work and self-reflectionChallenging inherited beliefs with curiosityAligning personal goals with spiritual valuesThe transformative power of love and its role in building community Chapters 00:12 Introduction to Hearts Connect 01:56 The Meaning of Connection04:51 Defining Moments and Belonging07:50 Creating Safe Spaces09:15 Understanding Anti-Blackness and Belonging11:15 Misunderstandings and Stereotypes12:48 Daily Habits and Spiritual Practices14:27 Rediscovering Faith and Purpose21:29 Navigating Disconnection and Solitude23:53 Heart Work and Spiritual Growth24:45 Aligning Personal Goals with Spiritual Values25:20 Understanding Heart Work and Anti-Blackness30:54 The Impact of Anti-Blackness on Society37:26 Recognizing the Powers That Be42:24 The Essence of Love in Life About the Podcast The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, spiritual growth, and intentional living. #HeartsConnect #HeartsConnectPodcast #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #Belonging #Community #Tazkiyah #HeartWork #AntiBlackness #Islam #MuslimCommunity #SpiritualGrowth #HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #Identity #SelfAwareness #Love #PersonalGrowth #InnerWork

  4. Sep 2

    We Fight for Truth. We Fight for Strength In and Out of the Ring. I ft. Aiysha I S3 Ep5

    I'm your host, Sekinat Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Aiysha, a Muslim boxer and journalist, shares her journey into boxing and the impact of wearing hijab on her life. She discusses the importance of self-defense for women and the misconceptions about hijabis. A defining moment for her was the decision to wear hijab, leading to a deeper connection with her faith and a shift in her family's perception. Aiysha shares her experiences with balancing her day job, boxing, and spiritual growth. She emphasizes the importance of reflection, lists, and grounding oneself in faith. Aiysha also discusses the lessons she has learned about love and the significance of not being too attached to the material world. Takeaways Boxing as a form of self-defense and empowermentThe impact of wearing hijab on personal identity and perceptionsThe importance of intention and the misconceptions about hijabis Balancing work, boxing, and spiritual growthImportance of reflection and grounding in faithLessons about love and detachment from the material world Chapters 00:00 Defining Moment: Wearing Hijab and Deepening Faith25:14 Balancing Work, Boxing, and Faith27:23 Reflection and Grounding in Faith28:21 Lessons About Love and Detachment About the Podcast The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, spiritual growth, and intentional living. #HeartsConnect #Boxing #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #SpiritualGrowth #HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #Mindfulness #IntentionalLiving #Gratitude #TrustAllah #InnerWork #Islam #Identity #SelfAwareness #Mercy #PersonalGrowth #Hijab #Hijabjourney

  5. Aug 26

    The Secrets Beneath Each Breath | Breathwork, Healing, Wellbeing | ft. Nusaybah I Season 3 Ep 4

    I'm your host, Sekinat Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Nina Alexia Brazzo, also known as Nusaybah — a fitness instructor, personal trainer, artist, and photographer — for a powerful conversation about holistic healing, breath, movement, emotional awareness, spirituality, self-discovery, and intentional living. The conversation delves into the connection between the mind, body, and spirit, exploring how breath, movement, meditation, and emotional regulation can support healing and deeper self-awareness. Nusaybah shares her personal journey and holistic approach to health, as well as practical techniques for using breath and movement to reconnect with ourselves. We explore the healing power of movement and dance, the importance of emotional awareness, feminine energy and balance, spiritual journeys, sacred spaces, and the connection between breath and dhikr. The conversation also reflects on culture, faith, diversity, and how intentional living can help us become more present and connected. Takeaways Holistic approach to health and healingThe power of breath and breathworkEmotional awareness and regulationMovement as a tool for healing and expressionConnecting mind, body, and spiritSpirituality, dhikr, and intentional livingDance, culture, and self-expressionFeminine energy and balanceSelf-discovery and personal empowerment Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hearts Connect and Guest Introduction01:42 Nusaybah's Journey and Holistic Approach to Health03:57 The Importance of Breath in Healing10:25 Meditation Techniques and Self-Discovery19:17 Emotional Awareness and Regulation22:56 The Role of Movement in Healing31:36 Programs for Empowerment and Healing42:58 Breath Control and Movement Techniques45:34 Healing Through Breath and Movement47:56 Connecting Mind, Body, and Spirit52:28 Spiritual Journeys and Sacred Spaces57:27 Exploring Feminine Energy and Balance01:02:31 Dance as a Form of Expression and Healing01:25:08 Cultural Connections Through Dance01:31:49 The Healing Power of Movement01:33:36 Breath and Dhikr: A Spiritual Practice01:39:31 Intentional Living and Self-Awareness01:51:09 Embracing Diversity in Faith and Culture About the Podcast The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, spiritual growth, self-awareness, and intentional living. #HeartsConnect #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #SpiritualGrowth #HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #EmotionalRegulation #MindBodySpirit #Breathwork #MovementHealing #SelfAwareness #IntentionalLiving #Dhikr #Islam #MuslimWomen #PersonalGrowth

  6. Aug 20

    The Greatest Love Story | A Journey Back to Allah | ft. Nadia I Season 3 Ep 3

    I'm your host, Sekinat Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Nadia - Manager of a Youth Referral Unit - for a powerful conversation about self-discovery, the impact of cultural upbringing and identity, seeking fulfilment and purpose, life in Jordan and community connection, and grounding habits and the impact of education. The conversation delves into the themes of education as a tool for unlocking potential, the journey of rediscovering faith and purpose, the process of healing and growth through adversity, and the profound lessons of love, gratitude, and spiritual reflection. Each chapter provides a deep exploration of these themes, offering valuable insights and personal experiences. Takeaways Journey of self-discoveryImpact of upbringing and cultural diversity Education as a ToolRediscovering FaithHealing and GrowthLove and Gratitude Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery05:59 Cultural Upbringing and Identity11:59 Seeking Fulfillment and Purpose20:05 Life in Jordan and Community Connection28:09 Grounding Habits and Impact of Education30:07 Unlocking Potential Through Education33:16 Rediscovering Faith and Purpose36:06 Healing and Growth Through Adversity49:30 Love, Gratitude, and Spiritual Reflection About the Podcast The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, spiritual growth, and intentional living. #HeartsConnect #Marriage #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #SpiritualGrowth #HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #Mindfulness #IntentionalLiving #Gratitude #TrustAllah #InnerWork #Islam #Identity #SelfAwareness #Mercy #PersonalGrowth

  7. Aug 12

    Who Are You Beneath Your Mask? | Identity, Healing & Self-Discovery | ft. Karimah I Season 3 Ep 2

    I'm your host, Sekinat Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Karimah for a powerful conversation about identity, healing, self-discovery, and the spiritual battles that can take place within us. Together, we explore what it means to look beneath the masks we wear and become more aware of the thoughts, patterns, and whispers that can pull us away from Allah. Karimah shares honest reflections on self-sabotage, mindfulness, gratitude, mercy, and learning to recognise the subtle ways we can become disconnected from ourselves and our Creator. This conversation is a reminder that the greatest battle isn't against yourself — it's against the whispers trying to pull you away from Allah. Through greater self-awareness, intentionality, gratitude, and trust in Allah's mercy, we can begin to break unhealthy patterns and reconnect with who we truly are. TakeawaysUnderstanding who you are beneath the masks you have learned to wear.Recognising self-sabotage and the patterns that keep us stuck.Becoming more mindful of our thoughts, emotions, and actions.Learning to recognise the whispers that can pull us away from Allah.Practising gratitude and recognising the blessings Allah has already given us.Remembering Allah's mercy when navigating mistakes and personal growth.Choosing intentional responses instead of allowing our impulses to control us.Healing through greater self-awareness and reconnection with Allah.Chapters00:11 Introduction to Journeys and Identity 01:36 The Multifaceted Identity of Karima Vince Daoud 02:14 Understanding Slavery and Freedom in Islam 05:19 The Importance of Connection and Dialogue 07:34 Facing Inner Demons and Self-Reflection 15:17 The Transformative Experience of Motherhood 21:38 Navigating Parenthood and Personal Growth 23:05 Building a Team Mentality in Family Dynamics 26:27 Navigating Menstrual Health and Self-Care 29:01 The Importance of Prayer and Seeking Support 30:13 Understanding Neurodiversity and Communication 34:02 Morning Rituals for a Productive Day 37:53 The Journey to Embracing Islam 43:19 Reconnecting with Faith After Disconnection 46:45 Finding Focus Through Faith 49:27 The Power of Solitude 52:10 Navigating Relationships with Allah 56:00 Balancing Personal and Spiritual Goals 01:00:04 Lessons on Love and Compassion 01:04:49 Understanding Temperaments and Their Impact 01:07:55 Dynamic Personalities in Relationships About the PodcastThe Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. Who are you beneath the mask you've learned to wear? Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, spiritual growth, and intentional living. #HeartsConnect #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #SpiritualGrowth #HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #Mindfulness #IntentionalLiving #Gratitude #TrustAllah #InnerWork #Islam #Identity #SelfAwareness #Mercy #PersonalGrowth

  8. Aug 6

    I Was Taught to Hate Muslims. I Became One…! ft. Nathan

    I'm your host, Sekinat Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Nathan, CEO of the Muslim Wealth Management Group. The conversation with Nathan explores his journey of faith, connection, and self-discovery. From defining moments to the importance of connection and the impact of autism, Nathan shares his experiences and challenges. He also discusses the significance of morning rituals and the discovery of faith, highlighting the emotional journey of feeling disconnected and finding his way back. Takeaways Connection is deeply personal and essential for human development.Understanding and awareness of autism are crucial for effective communication and interaction. Chapters 00:00 Child of God01:31 The Meaning of Connection03:05 The Importance of Connection06:14 Defining Moment09:44 Misunderstandings10:25 Understanding Autism18:44 Morning Ritual26:26 Discovering Faith32:29 Feeling Disconnected About the Podcast: The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, and building healthy relationships—with ourselves, with Allah, and with others. If this episode resonated with you, share your reflections below. What are you consuming—and how is it shaping you? Subscribe for more conversations on faith, identity, healing, and intentional living. #HeartsConnect #MuslimPodcast #FaithJourney #SpiritualGrowth #HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #Tadabbur #IntentionalLiving #TrustAllah #InnerWork

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About

Based on the book Hearts Connect, which shares the real-life stories of people (mostly from African and Afro-Caribbean backgrounds in the UK) who converted to Islam in the 1990s/2000s. The Hearts Connect show is a self-development and spiritually grounded podcast that explores themes of personal growth, emotional healing, and marriage through the lens of Islamic values. It’s rooted in authentic storytelling, spiritual journeys, and the pursuit of healthy relationships with oneself, Allah (God), and others.

Information

  • Creator
    Sekina Yakub
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Sekina Yakub
  • Show Website
    Hearts Connect