1d ago

Defending Dignity: A Conversation with NCCM’s Stephen Brown

What happens when faith meets the front lines of civil rights? Join us for a powerful conversation with Stephen Brown, CEO of the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), as he shares his journey from a labor negotiator to leading one of Canada’s most vital advocacy organizations. This episode explores the deep connection between personal transformation, community service, and the struggle for justice. In this episode of the Balance podcast, we dive deep into the intersection of faith, finance, and social justice. Stephen opens up about his personal transformation after accepting Islam at Concordia University and how his faith became a superpower in his professional life. We explore the unique challenges facing Muslims in Quebec, the historical struggle for civil liberties, and the real economic cost of Islamophobia in Canada. Stephen also shares profound insights into the history of black Canadians and why he chose to leave a stable career to fight for the rights of the next generation. We discuss the importance of building strong institutions, the financial impact of discrimination, and how the Muslim community can strategically invest in its own future. Whether you are interested in civil rights, personal growth, or the socio-economic landscape of Canada, this conversation offers a rare and moving perspective.

1h 8m

May 21

Wahed Invest Hits $2 Billion: The Future of Halal Investing

The world of Islamic finance is evolving rapidly, creating new opportunities for Muslims to grow their wealth while staying aligned with their values. But with innovation comes important questions around Sharia compliance, ethical investing, risk management, and the future of halal financial products. In this exclusive conversation, we sit down with Umer Suleman, Chief Risk Officer at Wahed, to explore how technology and ethical finance are transforming access to halal investing across the globe. From Wahed’s milestone of reaching $2 billion in assets under management to the growing role of waqf, asset-backed payments, and Islamic investment innovation, this discussion offers valuable insights for Muslim professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and families looking to build wealth with purpose. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN The future of halal investing and Islamic finance How Sharia-compliant investing and financial screening work The significance of waqf and strategic charity in community growth Innovations shaping ethical wealth management and asset-backed payments Practical advice for Muslim professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors

1h 7m

Apr 17

From Story to Systems: Identity, Money, & Impact

What happens when you combine a PhD in Applied AI with a passion for sustainable fashion and community building? In this episode of Balance, we dive deep with Dr. Ayse Mohammed to explore how technology and faith can reshape our world for the better. Key insights in this episode: - Understanding Applied AI and its role in solving real-world problems - The environmental impact of fast fashion and how to build a timeless wardrobe - Reimagining fintech with Islamic principles and AI-driven ethical screening - Navigating life as an immigrant and the cultural differences between Turkey and Canada - Practical advice for Muslim women balancing faith and modern relevance

58 min

Feb 10

The Muslim Guide to Crypto - Part 2

In Part 2 of The Muslim Guide to Crypto, we go deeper into the fiqh of digital assets, exploring how classical Islamic principles apply to one of today’s most revolutionary financial technologies. Sh. Mu'aawiyah Tucker will break down the methodology (usool) they use to determine whether Bitcoin and other crypto assets meet the conditions of halal financial conduct. What You'll Learn: The key rulings that determine when Bitcoin use is permissible, and when it crosses into the doubtful zone.Which crypto activities clearly violate Shariah principles (including staking, futures, options, and lending).How to distinguish between investing and maysir (speculative gambling). Whether volatility itself is a Shariah concern, or if intention and structure matter more. What a truly halal crypto portfolio looks like in practice, and what to exclude. How Muslims can manage risk responsibly through sound position sizing, time horizons, and custody practices. A high-level approach to calculating zakat on Bitcoin holdings. The growing challenge of centralization in Bitcoin’s custody, mining, and exchange ecosystems, and what that means for Muslim investors.

1h 5m

Jan 10

Balance: Debt-Free Real Estate: A Conversation with Sirai Farah

In today's complex financial landscape, Muslim investors face a unique opportunity: building wealth through real estate without debt or interest, fully aligned with faith and principles. Discover how debt-free strategies empower communities and create lasting legacy. Join Hash Assad, Sh. Navaid Aziz, and guest Sirai Farah—co-founder of DeenVest Capital—for an inspiring online conversation on halal real estate investing. Gain practical insights into interest-free property funds, ethical wealth growth, and Sharia-compliant models that deliver clarity and confidence. In this episode, you will learn: Sirai's journey founding DeenVest and shifting from conventional real estate to faith-based investingHow debt-free funds acquire multifamily properties without leverage or ribaRealities of raising capital for halal US investments and shifting investor mindsetsKey insights for Muslim and non-Muslim investors on ethical real estateScaling a values-driven business with transparency and compliance

1h 3m

12/05/2025

Balance: The Muslim Guide to Crypto

Today, Muslims everywhere are navigating one of the biggest financial shifts in modern history. Digital money is reshaping the world. The question is: how do we engage with these new technologies while staying true to our values? Join trusted voices in Islamic finance as they break down what every Muslim should understand about Bitcoin, blockchain, and the future of money. This session offers clarity, grounded knowledge, and a practical look at where global financial systems are heading. In this episode, you’ll discover: How Bitcoin and blockchain technology actually work and is it actually halalWhy many Muslims are considering alternatives to modern fiat moneyHow these assets align with Islamic principles on money and transparencyWhat the future may hold for Bitcoin and global financial systems Whether you're curious, skeptical, or simply want to understand what's happening in the world of finance, this session will provide you with clarity and practical insights rooted in our Islamic values.

1h 12m

10/24/2025

Balance: Faith, Family, Finance and Fitness

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining balance between faith, family, finance, and fitness is one of the greatest challenges and opportunities, for modern Muslims. Join us for a powerful conversation with Sh. Abdullah Oduro, an internationally recognized imam, educator, and convert to Islam who brings together Islamic scholarship, practical life experience, and a passion for personal growth. From his journey of faith and identity to his work at Yaqeen Institute and MasterMan Nation, Sh. Abdullah has inspired thousands to reconnect with their deen, lead their families with integrity, and strengthen both body and soul. How faith shapes your approach to family and wealth Why fitness and discipline are essential parts of spiritual life The balance between worship, work, and well-being Practical steps to realign your daily life with Islamic values Whether you’re striving to lead your home, build financial stability, or simply live with more purpose — this episode will leave you motivated and grounded in faith.

1h 2m

08/29/2025

Balance: The Current State of Real Estate

Are rising interest rates, inflation, and market uncertainty leaving you wondering, "Should I buy now or wait?" This podcast dives deep into Halal real estate strategies with expert insights to help you navigate these challenging times. Join us as Nader from Manzil Realty shares his expertise, offering Sharia-compliant solutions for first-time homebuyers, real estate investors, and families seeking long-term financial stability. Together, we explore: The impact of rising inflation and interest rates on real estate markets across Canada. Key strategies to balance faith and financial goals when buying a home. The complexities of timing the market versus focusing on long-term investment strategies. The unique challenges and opportunities in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. Whether you're looking to buy your first home or expand your investment portfolio, this video answers your most pressing questions about navigating the real estate market while staying true to your values.

1h 13m

07/04/2025

Balance: Sheikh Belal Assaad - Money, Marriage & Faith

Discover the secrets to halal investing and building a secure future with practical advice rooted in faith and finance! In this insightful episode, we explore how to navigate global equities markets, tackle rising inflation, and understand the impact of interest rates and recession on your financial journey. Our expert guest, an internationally recognized Islamic scholar Sh. Belal Assaad with 27 years of experience, shares actionable advice and wealth management tips to help you thrive. Key highlights include: • Practical steps to overcome financial hardships while maintaining mental and spiritual resilience. • Understanding the importance of budgeting, financial planning, and managing expenses wisely. • Adopting an abundance mindset and balancing patience with proactive effort to achieve your goals. • Tips for networking, skill-building, and finding community support to grow your financial literacy. • Islamic perspectives on balancing risk, reward, and ethical investment practices.

1h 21m

06/26/2025

Balance: Alberta Halal Mortgage

Discover Alberta's first-ever regulated halal mortgage, a groundbreaking milestone in Islamic finance and wealth management. In this historic video, we explain how this Sharia-compliant mortgage works, its key benefits, and why it’s a game-changer for Muslims and non-Muslims alike seeking ethical financial planning solutions. Key highlights include: Comprehensive insights into the Murabaha structure The distinction between traditional mortgages and halal mortgagesAddressing common misconceptionsThe benefits of regulated, Sharia-compliant financial solutions Visit https://www.assadwealth.ca

1h 1m

05/20/2025

Balance: Muslim Wealth and Legacy Building with Sh. Joe Bradford

Join us for an exclusive conversation with Sh. Joe Bradford—Islamic finance expert, author, and entrepreneur—as we explore what it really means to build wealth as a Muslim in today’s world. Hosted by Hash Assad and Sh. Navaid Aziz, this live podcast will cover: How to balance wealth-building with spiritual humilitySteps to creating lasting, halal generational wealthThe legacy of the Prophet’s companions and how it reframes successSh. Joe’s personal practices around money, faith, and market insights This session is for you if you: Want to align your financial goals with your Islamic valuesAre building or planning your family’s long-term futureAre curious about Islamic perspectives on legacy, giving, and financial independence .assadwealth.ca/

1h 7m

BALANCE: Where Faith Meets Finance

Episodes

Defending Dignity: A Conversation with NCCM’s Stephen Brown

Wahed Invest Hits $2 Billion: The Future of Halal Investing

From Story to Systems: Identity, Money, & Impact

The Muslim Guide to Crypto - Part 2

Balance: Debt-Free Real Estate: A Conversation with Sirai Farah

Balance: The Muslim Guide to Crypto

Balance: Faith, Family, Finance and Fitness

Balance: The Current State of Real Estate

Balance: Sheikh Belal Assaad - Money, Marriage & Faith

Balance: Alberta Halal Mortgage

Balance: Muslim Wealth and Legacy Building with Sh. Joe Bradford

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