The Growth Mindset

Silawath Irshad

Welcome to The Growth Mindset Podcast, where we unleash your potential. Hosted by Silawath Irshad, we explore topics like personal and professional growth, finance, science, religion, health, and more. Each week, experts share their success stories and offer practical tips to help you develop a growth mindset. Our goal is to inspire you to overcome challenges and achieve your goals by embracing growth and continuous learning. Join us for inspiration, motivation, and practical advice on cultivating a growth mindset. #GrowthMindset #Inspiration #Motivation #Success #Podcast.

  1. How to Keep a Child’s Dream Alive | Lessons from Aspiring Astronaut Alyssa Carson

    12/31/2025

    How to Keep a Child’s Dream Alive | Lessons from Aspiring Astronaut Alyssa Carson

    What happens when a child dares to dream big — and the world doesn’t shut that dream down? In this new, inspiring episode of The Growth Mindset Podcast, I sit down with Alyssa Carson, one of the world’s most recognised aspiring astronauts, to explore how childhood curiosity, disciplined parenting, and the right mindset can keep dreams alive well into adulthood. This conversation is not just about space.It’s about belief, discipline, sacrifice, and the systems that either nurture a child’s potential… or slowly suffocate it. Alyssa shares how her journey toward space began at a very young age, how education and intentional choices shaped her path, and why dreams don’t survive on motivation alone — they survive on structure, consistency, and support. For parents, educators, mentors, and young people, this episode is a reminder that: Dreams are fragile Curiosity must be protected And belief must be reinforced with action Dreams don’t disappear overnight.They fade when effort, belief, and guidance are missing. This episode is a call to raise dreamers, protect curiosity, and build the inner discipline required to turn aspirations into reality. Episode Breakdown: 0:00 – Alyssa Carson’s early fascination with space 3:40 – How childhood curiosity turns into lifelong ambition 7:15 – The role of parents in protecting a child’s dream 11:20 – Why most children lose belief as they grow older 15:05 – Education, discipline, and long-term vision 19:30 – STEM, space, and the future of young innovators 24:10 – Mindset lessons parents and mentors must understand 29:45 – What it really takes to keep a dream alive 35:10 – Final reflections on belief, effort, and purpose Stay Connected with The Growth Mindset Podcast below: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/⁠ YouTube:⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshad⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/⁠ Connect with Alyssa Carson below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nasablueberry/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-carson-87b874152/ X: https://x.com/NASABlueberry1

    59 min
  2. AI, Sales, and The Last Mile - Becoming Irreplaceable in Your Job and Business with John Barrows

    12/07/2025

    AI, Sales, and The Last Mile - Becoming Irreplaceable in Your Job and Business with John Barrows

    Technology now knows more than any salesperson alive — faster research, better data, and even personalized emails. But John Barrows reminds us that AI cannot replace emotional connection, curiosity, discipline, and human judgment. John Barrows is one of the world’s leading sales trainers, keynote speakers, and performance coaches. He has worked with LinkedIn, Salesforce, Zoom, Slack, Google, Box, and some of the most respected SaaS and enterprise sales organizations globally. His frameworks have helped thousands of sellers elevate performance, master communication, and build emotionally intelligent sales careers. In this powerful, future-ready conversation, we discuss: Why 80% of sales reps will get replaced How to stay in the top 20% Why most “salespeople” secretly behave like robots How to use AI to augment your value, not automate yourself out of a job Why work ethic and curiosity are worth more than any degree How to develop deeper EQ, listening skills, emotional intelligence, and body language awareness Why the best reps transfer enthusiasm, not information John delivers a strong message: “If you behave like a robot, you will be replaced by a robot.” But if you strengthen character, emotional intelligence, listening, storytelling, and curiosity…You become irreplaceable. Before we talk about career success, we must cultivate: Discipline Curiosity Strong work ethic Integrity Authentic human engagement Because humans still buy from humans, not just automation. The future of sales is not just IQ.It’s EQ, empathy, emotional awareness, and authentic problem-solving. Let technology do the heavy lifting…But you must be the last mile. Episode Breakdown: 0:00 — John Barrows: Career intro & evolution of modern sales 3:30 — Why AI already knows more than most reps 7:15 — Will AI replace salespeople? Who is safe, who isn’t 10:10 — The danger of using AI like Google 13:40 — Becoming irreplaceable: EQ, empathy & curiosity 18:45 — The future skill framework for top 20% performers 24:30 — AI as augmentation, not automation 26:30 — The “Last Mile” strategy: Humans buy from humans 31:10 — Work ethic vs talent: Why discipline still wins 35:15 — Curiosity, passion & authenticity as competitive advantage 42:10 — Emotional intelligence: real-world methods to build EQ 47:30 — Selling through storytelling & customer problem-solving 52:00 — Leadership traits every future-ready company needs 58:05 — How to train yourself to read humans again (beyond Zoom) Stay Connected with The Growth Mindset Podcast below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshad Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/ Connect with John Barrows below: Website:https://learn.jbarrows.com/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbarrows/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnMBarrows X: https://x.com/JohnMBarrows Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnmbarrows/

    1h 18m
  3. How Muslim Leaders Protected All Faiths - The Truth No One Talks About

    11/24/2025

    How Muslim Leaders Protected All Faiths - The Truth No One Talks About

    For centuries, many people have repeated the claim that “The sword spread Islam.” But what does actual history say? In this powerful conversation, Pablo, a historian specializing in Andalusian, Ottoman, and Mughal history, breaks down one of the biggest myths about Islam using academic sources, historical data, and on-the-ground evidence from Spain, Crete, Egypt, Cyprus, Sindh, Kerala, and beyond. This episode uncovers: Why did so many Jewish and Christian communities welcome Muslim rule Why forced conversion is historically unproven and inaccurate How Islamic governance protected minorities Why did people voluntarily embrace Islam How Arab traders brought Islam to India long before any conquest The real story behind Aurangzeb, Jizya, and Mughal rule Why modern Muslims must reclaim their intellectual legacy Islamic history is not just dates and dynasties — it is a story of justice, coexistence, courage, and dignity. And it is time Muslims learned their history from real historians. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:“Allah grants gentleness for anything that is added to it.”[Sahih Muslim] This episode is a reminder that Islam’s greatest strength has always been its justice, its ethics, and the hearts it transforms. If you want history, evidence, and truth — this is the episode for you. EPISODE BREAKDOWN 00:00 – The biggest myth about Islam’s spread03:12 – Why entire nations welcomed Muslim rule06:41 – Andalus: The treaty that changed everything09:58 – Egypt & Sindh: What history textbooks don't teach14:20 – When heavy taxation pushed people toward Muslims17:06 – India before “conquest”: The forgotten truth20:36 – Aurangzeb, Jizya & the distortion of Mughal history25:48 – Pablo’s journey: From Christianity to Islam32:10 – Why people accepted Islamic culture willingly38:33 – The story of the Mughal Empire43:15 – Tipu Sultan, technology & the Mysore shock48:52 – The Muslim world’s lost intellectual power54:20 – How modern Muslims can reclaim their identity STAY CONNECTED WITH THE GROWTH MINDSET: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshadFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/ You can get in touch with Pablo here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pablotalks_/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PabloTalks_

    1h 6m
  4. Teaching Boundaries & Spotting Trauma Early - A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Children from All Forms of Abuse

    11/16/2025

    Teaching Boundaries & Spotting Trauma Early - A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Children from All Forms of Abuse

    In this powerful and deeply human conversation, survivor and advocate Nathan Spiteri reveals the uncomfortable truth behind childhood abuse, how grooming works, why most victims never speak up, and how unresolved trauma silently shapes adult lives — often leading to addiction, violence, and even suicide. Together, we break down the real signs parents miss, the psychological traps children fall into, and why education—not silence—is the only way to protect our families. Nathan opens up about his own journey from abuse to addiction to healing, sharing the steps that helped him reclaim his power, confront triggers, forgive himself, and finally say the words that changed everything: “It wasn’t my fault.” This episode is a must-listen for parents, teachers, caregivers, and anyone who wants to create safer homes, neighborhoods, and schools. Because saving even one child today can save generations tomorrow. Episode Breakdown (Short Version) 00:00 mins — Why conversations on child abuse matter00:33 mins — Early warning signs parents must notice02:36 mins — Teaching children correct body awareness04:07 mins — Why kids don’t speak up & how parents react06:55 mins — Abuse within families & the role of trust10:00 mins — Hidden male trauma & shocking statistics12:29 mins — How childhood trauma leads to adult crises16:18 mins — Nathan’s personal story of abuse & grooming19:27 mins — Rock bottom, therapy & the start of healing20:57 mins — Understanding triggers and managing them29:55 mins — Nathan’s three key principles for healing35:07 mins — What to do when you’re triggered and alone44:36 mins — The growing danger of online bullying47:22 mins — What schools and communities must do58:24 mins — The mission: helping even one child01:00:47 mins — Final message & how to reach out for help Stay Connected with The Growth Mindset: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshadFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/ Connect with Nathan Spiteri below: Website: https://www.nathanspiteri.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanspiteri/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-spiteri-06778719

    1h 3m
  5. The Rights, Roles, and Responsibilities of Men and Women in Islam with Dr. Nasser Karimian

    10/05/2025

    The Rights, Roles, and Responsibilities of Men and Women in Islam with Dr. Nasser Karimian

    In this new episode of The Growth Mindset Podcast, Dr. Nasser joins Silawath Irshad to explore one of the most misunderstood topics in today’s world — the true rights, roles, and responsibilities of men and women in Islam. Dr. Nasser Karimian is a renowned Islamic scholar and the Imam and Resident Scholar at Al-Huda Foundation and Masjid Al-Huda in Fishers, Indiana. With a Ph.D. in Usul al-Din (Fundamentals of Religion) from the International Islamic University of Malaysia, he is known for his insightful teachings on the principles of Islam, faith in modern times, masculinity, femininity, and marriage. Through his lectures, counseling, and leadership, Dr. Nasser continues to inspire Muslims worldwide to rediscover balance, purpose, and strength through the Qur’an and Sunnah. With wisdom rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah, Dr. Nasser dives deep into the essence of masculinity and femininity, the four pillars of a Muslim man, and the spiritual balance that holds families and societies together. This episode is about identity, purpose, and harmony. Whether you’re a man seeking to reclaim your leadership with compassion or a woman striving to understand your divine strength and nurturing power, this conversation will challenge, awaken, and inspire you. Stay till the end — Dr. Nasser shares raw truths about modern relationship struggles, marriage delays, the LGBTQ narrative, and how fathers can guide their daughters to choose the right man. ⏱️ Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Introduction: The importance of discussing gender roles in Islam00:24 – The 4 Ps of masculinity: Protect, Provide, Procreate & Be Present03:47 – How young Muslim men can rediscover their masculine nature05:00 – Can women take leadership roles in Islam?07:05 – The burden and beauty of leadership07:35 – How embracing divine design brings spiritual growth09:49 – The 5 dimensions every Muslim man must build: Physical, Mental, Spiritual, Social & Financial12:39 – How women can develop balance and wisdom in their feminine roles17:00 – “Single women keep women single” — Dr. Nasser’s advice to sisters19:20 – Why fathers must guide their daughters in choosing the right man21:08 – How Islam views intimacy and affection within marriage27:31 – The danger of taboo around love and sexuality in Muslim homes28:34 – Understanding the LGBTQ narrative through the lens of faith31:32 – Why Islam encourages early marriage — not delayed desires38:34 – The modern crisis: Delayed marriage, depression & missed opportunities43:12 – The biggest lies told to women about men, independence & marriage47:43 – Don’t marry a project — why truth and consistency matter50:07 – How to identify a tyrant vs. a true leader in a man53:10 – Why family background reveals more than appearance or charm 🌱 Stay Connected with The Growth Mindset: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshad Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/ You can find Dr. Nasser Karimian below: Foundation Website: https://alhudafoundation.org/team/dr-nasser-karimian/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.nasserk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.nasserka/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-nasser-karimian-11515a347/

    59 min
  6. Michael Sugich on Islam, Sufism & the Search for True Spiritual Guidance in a Noisy World

    09/28/2025

    Michael Sugich on Islam, Sufism & the Search for True Spiritual Guidance in a Noisy World

    What does it mean to truly know God in a world drowning in distractions, noise, and false guides? In this deeply inspiring conversation, writer and spiritual traveler Michael Sugich shares his extraordinary journey from the stages of America's theater to the timeless wisdom of Islam and Sufism. Michael Sugich is an acclaimed American writer and spiritual traveler who converted to Islam in his early twenties. He has authored several celebrated works, including Signs on the Horizons, Hearts Turn, and the nine-volume series The Exemplars for Our Time (co-authored with photographer Peter Sanders), which document stories of faith, repentance, and the lives of contemporary saints. Michael opens up about his youth in the 1960s, his spiritual awakening, and the transformative role of Sufi teachers and authentic spiritual guides. We dive into the purpose of religion, the dangers of self-guided spirituality in the “Shaykh Google” age, and how seekers today can discern truth from illusion. This episode is a treasure chest for anyone seeking authentic spirituality, the meaning of Islam, and the path of the heart. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 mins – Introduction & Michael Sugich’s journey across the world 01:24 mins – Discovering Islam through Sufism and the power of repetition 06:30 mins – A life-changing teenage spiritual experience 10:00 mins – Sufism as an integral part of Islam (Islam, Iman, Ihsan) 14:43 mins – The importance of travel & seeking authentic teachers 20:16 mins – The role of spiritual guides and the dangers of false sheikhs 30:18 mins – Why Sharia and Tasawwuf cannot be separated 36:50 mins – The rise of “Shaykh Google” & pitfalls of online spirituality 42:00 mins – Colonialism, modern crises, and forgetting the true purpose of religion 46:15 mins – Islam as a toolkit to know God (not identity or politics) 49:54 mins – The power of Dhikr and remembrance of God 54:47 mins – True vs false spiritual teachers: red flags and green flags 1:10:00 mins – Stories of saints, miracles, and the subtle signs of sincerity 1:18:10 mins – Why authentic sheikhs live ordinary lives, not cult-like ones 1:21:15 mins – Destiny, connection, and the secret of finding a true guide Closing mins – Final reflections on spirituality, humility, and knowing God Stay Connected with The Growth Mindset: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshad⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/ You can reach out to Michael Sugich below, and the list of books written is mentioned below: Books: Signs on the Horizons, Hearts Turn, The Exemplars for Our Time Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.sugich/

    1h 41m
  7. Prepare for Future: Social Media Addiction, AI & The Power of Storytelling with Max Stossel

    09/21/2025

    Prepare for Future: Social Media Addiction, AI & The Power of Storytelling with Max Stossel

    Is social media stealing our time, our focus, and even our childhood? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with poet, storyteller, and social media reformer Max Stossel. From building one of the early apps designed to hook attention, to now leading a global movement for mindful tech use, Max brings a rare insider’s perspective on how technology shapes our behavior — and how we can reclaim our lives. We explore: -The psychology behind addictive apps like Instagram & TikTok -How parents can protect kids from screen overuse -The role of AI in misinformation & relationships -Building emotional resilience with daily rituals -Why storytelling and poetry can heal our anxieties and inspire change This is a profound, honest, and inspiring conversation that will change the way you view your phone — and yourself. Episode Breakdown (Chapters): 00:00 – Introduction to Max Stossel01:00 – Building Ocho & designing addictive app features02:30 – The slot machine psychology of social media04:30 – Practical steps to reclaim attention & mindfulness06:40 – Who is Max Stossel? Poet, storyteller & reformer08:40 – Parenting tips: protecting kids from early smartphone addiction10:50 – Teens, social media & finding healthier habits13:30 – The NC-17 world of social media & its risks15:00 – AI, misinformation & the future of human connection18:00 – Critical thinking, bias & navigating an AI-driven world23:30 – Max’s journey from tech to poetry & social impact27:00 – The story behind his viral “Life After Delivery” poem33:30 – How to become a better storyteller40:00 – Rituals, boundaries & finding daily beauty48:00 – Poetry on self-doubt, anxiety & imposter syndrome55:00 – Max’s message to every teenager in the world56:30 – How to connect with Max & his work58:30 – Closing thoughts: good vs harmful content on social media Stay Connected with The Growth Mindset: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshad Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/ Connect with Max Stossel: Website (Poetry & Art): https://wordsthatmove.com/ Social Awakening (Work with schools): https://socialawakening.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxstossel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MaxStossel/

    59 min
  8. 9 to 5 Job vs Entrepreneurship: Rethinking Success, Stability & Growth with Mike Bourgeois

    09/14/2025

    9 to 5 Job vs Entrepreneurship: Rethinking Success, Stability & Growth with Mike Bourgeois

    In this episode of The Growth Mindset Podcast, we sit down with Mike Bourgeois, an executive with over 25 years of experience in corporate life, leading teams across various well-known companies. Mike brings a rare blend of wisdom from both the boardroom and entrepreneurial ventures, sharing what it really takes to succeed while staying grounded. He opens up about the true value of a nine-to-five job, the importance of community and networking, and how a growth mindset can transform your career and personal life. From defining success beyond financial metrics to balancing family and work, Mike offers honest and practical advice on leadership, resilience, and finding purpose in your career journey. Whether you’re considering entrepreneurship or re-evaluating your corporate path, this episode will challenge your perspective on what success really means. Key Takeaways: Corporate life offers stability and community.Failure is a stepping stone to success.Connections made at work are invaluable.Evaluate your life phase before making career changes.Don't sacrifice family for personal dreams.Time is precious; take action when feeling stuck.Your network is your greatest asset.Curiosity and vulnerability drive growth.Leadership is about responsibility, not power.Practice active listening to enhance understanding.Navigating Corporate Life: Insights from MikeThe Value of Nine-to-Five Jobs in Today's World"Quit your job, chase your dreams.""Your net worth is your network.""Practice the art of listening." Interview Chapters: 00:00 – The Journey of Entrepreneurship vs. Traditional Employment02:30 – Finding Purpose in Work and Life05:27 – Defining Success Beyond Social Media07:56 – The Importance of Connection and Impact10:48 – Understanding the Benefits of a 9–5 Job11:51 – The Value of Traditional Employment13:52 – Navigating Life Changes and Responsibilities16:38 – Mindset and Resilience in the Face of Layoffs19:29 – Personal Growth Through Adversity21:59 – The Impact of Upbringing on Career Choices24:44 – Decision-Making and Taking Risks27:32 – Finding Clarity and Purpose After Job Loss30:26 – Balancing Work and Personal Life31:53 – Navigating Career Transitions33:01 – Climbing the Corporate Ladder38:12 – The Essence of Leadership41:37 – Entrepreneurship and Purpose46:23 – Cultivating a Growth Mindset48:49 – The Art of Listening Stay Connected with The Growth Mindset for regular updates: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silawath_irshad/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGrowthMindsetwithSilawathIrshad Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silawathirshad/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silawathirshad/ Connect with Mike Bourgeois: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/semikeb/

    52 min

About

Welcome to The Growth Mindset Podcast, where we unleash your potential. Hosted by Silawath Irshad, we explore topics like personal and professional growth, finance, science, religion, health, and more. Each week, experts share their success stories and offer practical tips to help you develop a growth mindset. Our goal is to inspire you to overcome challenges and achieve your goals by embracing growth and continuous learning. Join us for inspiration, motivation, and practical advice on cultivating a growth mindset. #GrowthMindset #Inspiration #Motivation #Success #Podcast.