The Path We Choose

Umer Farooque
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Exploring who we become through the path we choose.

  1. 11h ago

    The Beliefs That Quietly Control Us | Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui | Ep. 31

    In this episode of The Path We Choose, Umer Farooque sits down with Dr. Sabrina to unpack one of the most misunderstood concepts of our time: identity. From religion and nationality to culture and social status, we explore how identity is formed, why people become attached to certain labels, and what happens when those labels begin to define our worldview. Dr. Sabrina breaks down complex sociological ideas into simple, practical insights, explaining the difference between inherited identities, chosen identities, and the beliefs that shape who we become. The conversation also examines how discussions around Zionism, Palestine, nationalism, and faith influence the way people see themselves and others. Rather than adding to the noise, this episode aims to provide clarity, context, and a framework for thinking critically about identity in today's world . In this episode, we discuss: What identity actually means National identity vs. religious identity The sociology behind belonging How beliefs shape our worldview Zionism, Palestine, and public discourse Why understanding identity matters today If you've ever questioned what truly defines you or how society influences the way you see yourself this conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on one of the most important questions we can ask: Who are we, really? Follow Dr. Sabreena: Website: https://drsabreena.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsabreena_gs/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/sabreenags Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.Sabreena 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.

    The Beliefs That Quietly Control Us | Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui | Ep. 31

  2. Jul 20

    Are We Just Roleplaying Being Muslim? | Akber Ali | Ep. 30

    What does it actually mean to have a grounded identity? In this episode of The Path We Choose, host Umer Farooque sits down with Akber a young imam, hafiz, and digital creator to explore the thin line between cultural performance and authentic religious embodiment. Akber shares his fascinating "three paths": growing up in Canada, surviving high school meme culture, navigating the corporate communication sector, and eventually making the tough decision to walk away from a lucrative client-based social media career due to ethical and religious conflicts. We dive deep into why true Muslim identity goes far deeper than just changing your social media bio or attending halal food festivals. Akber opens up about how he re-dedicated himself to sacred knowledge, became an imam at just 21, and why he believes faith is ultimately designed to push us outside of our comfort zones so we can truly grow. In this episode, we discuss: The Illusion of Cultural Identity: Why social media posturing (like Arabic text in bios) doesn't equal real spiritual grounding. Akber’s Three Paths: The intersection of his spiritual journey, a corporate career in communication, and his life as a social media creator. Walking Away from the Mainstream Creator Economy: The ethical challenges of modern marketing and choosing to build a personal, values-aligned platform. The Uncomfortable Nature of Growth: Why being too comfortable in your lifestyle might be a sign that it’s time to stretch your faith. Becoming an Imam at 21: How a supportive friendship and an unexpected mosque visit changed the trajectory of Akber's life. True impact isn't found in mainstream validation or a massive audience, but in aligning your professional skills with your core spiritual values. If you are struggling to bridge the gap between your daily work and your deeper beliefs, this conversation serves as a powerful guide. Follow Akber: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akber.io/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@akberio 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.

    Are We Just Roleplaying Being Muslim? | Akber Ali | Ep. 30

  3. Jul 13

    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.

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

  4. Jul 6

    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.

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

  5. Jun 29

    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.

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

  6. Jun 25

    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.

    Why Faith Alone Can Change Everything | Episode 26 | Shahrez Hayder & Mohammed Al-Ubaidy

  7. Jun 20 ·  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.

    The Immigrant Hustle That Built a Global Brand | Matt Preschern | Ep. 25

  8. Jun 15 ·  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.

    The Truth About Mistakes, Accountability, and Allah | Shaykh Rasoul & Shahrez Hayder | Ep. 24
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Exploring who we become through the path we choose.

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  • Creator
    Umer Farooque
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Explicit

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